Shelf Or Scaffold Type Patents (Class 248/238)
  • Patent number: 5960905
    Abstract: An accessory device capable of being mounted on a ladder having hollow rungs includes a pair of primary support arms which are shaped to fit within rungs having flat top sides to prevent rotation of the primary arms therein. Secondary support arms are slidably extensible from the primary support arms to laterally position a tray assembly relative to one side of the ladder. A brace connected to the secondary support arms engages a tray assembly. The level of the tray relative to the slope of the ladder is adjusted by varying the position of arcuate slots found within a pair of flanges mounted on the bottom side of the tray relative to the brace. Thus, a user can adjust the level of the tray while keeping one or both hands on the tray for stability. The device may be mounted to either side of the ladder with the supporting arms and brace optionally remaining mounted on the ladder during transport and/or storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1999
    Inventor: Brady I. Gardner
  • Patent number: 5957238
    Abstract: A one-piece, integral device made up of linear rods and having a basket portion and a hook portion, the latter for mounting it on a step ladder. The basket holds an ordinary tool box. Also the basket portion has side hooks for mounting extra tools and instrumentalities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1999
    Inventor: Richard A Curvin, II
  • Patent number: 5899296
    Abstract: A scaffold apparatus includes a mounting frame releasably attachable to a top platform of a step ladder, a brace attached to the mounting frame and extending outwardly for holding the mounting frame and the step ladder in a spaced relation away from a building structure, and a receptacle for removable attachment to the brace and defining a cavity for retaining articles therein. The mounting frame includes a pair of pins and clips and a pair of C-shaped side clamp members for releasably attaching the frame to the step ladder. Each C-shaped side clamp member defines a channel therethrough and a pair of aligned apertures at a rear end. Each pin is removably insertable through one of the pair of aligned apertures defined at the rear ends of the C-shaped side clamp members for releasably retaining the mounting frame on the top platform of the step ladder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 4, 1999
    Inventor: Harvey D. Lantz
  • Patent number: 5873433
    Abstract: An accessory securable to the top cap of a step ladder for temporary storage of tools, parts and the like. The accessory includes a support which is securable to the top cap by various clamping arrangements which may include bolts, springs or tie downs. A tray member is pivotally attached to the support and in a deployed position extends horizontally forwardly. In a folded or storage position, the tray member is in overlying registry with the top cap of the ladder. In an alternate embodiment, the support is adjustable to accommodate step ladder caps of varying dimensions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 23, 1999
    Inventor: Gary Edward Katz
  • Patent number: 5855346
    Abstract: A ladder caddy with a tray and handles for carrying tools, supplies or paint cans, which attaches to the side of a ladder by self-clamping action due to the weight of the caddy, but which releases when lifted by its carrying handles to move to another location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 5, 1999
    Inventor: John R. Hall
  • Patent number: 5853156
    Abstract: A rail clamp is provided for attachment to a vertical rail such as a side rail of a ladder as are used on the rear of recreational vehicles. The rail clamp is molded from plastic and includes threaded members with knobs which allow the clamp to be tightened in any of a variety of positions along the rail. A pair of rail clamps are generally used for carrying bulky items such as lawn chairs exteriorly of the RV. The rail clamps are molded from durable plastic and will fit different size ladder rails as required. The knobs, threaded members and securing nuts can be reversed for convenience in use to either the right or left sides of the clamp body portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 29, 1998
    Assignee: CAMCO Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony D. Moore, William C. Overman
  • Patent number: 5842253
    Abstract: The ladder supported holding tray of the present invention comprises a tray assembly for releasable attachment to a step ladder or to an extension ladder that typically comprises an open top container including at least a front panel, a back panel, a first side panel, an second side panel, and a bottom joined together to define a hollow interior receptacle. First step engagement member are disposed on the container proximate the container bottom to permit secure temporary engagement of the tray to a first step of a step ladder, to a first single rung of an extension ladder, or to first side by side rungs of overlapping sections of an extension ladder. Second step engagement member are disposed on the tray assembly proximate to the open top of the container to permit secure temporary engagement to a second step of a step ladder, a second single rung of an extension ladder, or a second rung of side by side rungs of overlapping sections of an extension ladder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1998
    Inventors: Frank E. Ahl, Brian E. Ahl
  • Patent number: 5836420
    Abstract: The present invention provides for a platform to be used with a ladder that includes a frame having a top portion, a middle portion and a lower portion. The top portion of the frame includes a hook-like feature that engages the front and upper surfaces of an upper rung and the lower portion includes a stop that engages the front surface of a lower rung to provide for a middle rung to be located between the upper run and the lower rung. This will provide for the frame to extend the length of three rungs. A support or platform is located on the lower portion of the frame and receives the feet of a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1998
    Inventor: Raymond L. Marky, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5833190
    Abstract: A shelf supporting bracket for a scaffold comprises a pair of spaced apart angle irons connected together by a first cross bar at the rear and a second cross bar located inwardly from the open front end. A diagonal brace bar extends downwardly and forwardly from the rearwardly facing end of the spaced apart angle irons and first cross bar, terminating forwardly at a location below the second cross bar and on a line that extends from the forwardly facing wall of the second cross bar normal to the direction in which the angle irons extend. A semi-cylindrical socket member is secured to the forward end of the diagonal brace bar to receive a lower portion of a scaffold upright when an upper portion is received through the open front end of the spaced apart angle irons and rearwardly to abut against the forwardly facing wall of the second cross bar. A pin is then inserted through a pair of aligned apertures of the spaced apart angle irons to the front of the scaffold upright.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1998
    Inventor: Tommy J. Bishop
  • Patent number: 5806817
    Abstract: An attachment device securable to a ladder having a series of rungs. The device includes a container having a bottom and sidewall attached to its bottom so as to form an interior compartment in which materials and/or objects can be contained, such as a paint can, brushes, and related items.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Assignees: Bruce K. Loud, IIDLLC
    Inventor: Bruce K. Loud
  • Patent number: 5782314
    Abstract: A lightweight organizer with upper and lower trays and receptors for supplies and tools which can be mounted on the top platform of a stepladder. No tools are required in the process. The organizer has four sides extending downward and outwardly and opened on the bottom. It may either be made as single unitary molded plastic structure or its upper tray may be removable from the organizer's lower portion. An interior ledge with a notch in the organizer's apron portion fit on the lower side of the ladder's top platform to firmly secure the mounted organizer to it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1998
    Inventor: Gary J. Zeitler
  • Patent number: 5779208
    Abstract: An adjustably positionable support platform for use in combination with an extension ladder which includes a generally planar deck having a load supporting assembly to accommodate a person standing thereon. The load bearing assembly comprises a plate with a foot supporting upper surface and a ladder rung engaging lower surface. A first pair of support pins is provided for slidable engagement within brackets attached to the lower rung engaging surface, the first pair of pins being arranged to capture a ladder rung between the pin and the lower rung engaging surface. A second pair of pins is provided with a distally positioned ladder rail engaging plate to control the angular disposition of the deck so as to provide a horizontal standing surface for the user. Additionally, the plate of the load bearing assembly is provided with angularly downwardly extending flanges, with the included angle between the front flange and the plate preferably being about 75 degrees.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1998
    Inventor: Raymond V. McGraw
  • Patent number: 5727649
    Abstract: A tool storage container is provided, wherein the container includes a support shelf for resting atop and covering the uppermost platform surface of a ladder. A removable, adjustable hook is attached to the support shelf extending outward, and can clamp the ladder's uppermost platform between the hook and the sidewall of the container. A plurality of separate compartments neatly organize supplies, such as tape measures and screw drivers. A swing-out parts tray further provides easy storage and retrieval of nails, screws, and the like. A hinged lid and a carrying handle in order to accommodate use as a conventional tool storage container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 17, 1998
    Inventor: Kevin C. Buckley
  • Patent number: 5673885
    Abstract: A paint tray (10) for a stepladder (12) which comprises a structure (14) for storing work materials (16), tools (18) and a paint bucket (20) in an organized manner, so that a person can conveniently utilize the work materials (16), tools (18) and paint bucket (20) therefrom. A facility (22) is for retaining the storing structure (14) to the stepladder (12) in a safe dependable manner, so that the work materials (16), tools (18) and paint bucket (20) are maintained within the storing structure (14), while the storing structure (14) will be firmly held in place onto the stepladder (12) by the retaining facility (22).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 7, 1997
    Inventor: Paul Pham
  • Patent number: 5647453
    Abstract: A multi-purpose ladder utility apron comprised of four side panels, each adapted with a plurality of tool and accessory receptacles and further comprised of a fold up storage tray on the ladder's top providing additional temporary storage space. Closure flaps and straps secure the apron to the ladder whether in its open or closed position such that the subject invention may be secured to the ladder during use, transport and storage and may be quickly removed for laundering. An optional lid is also pivotally attached to the apron and folds out to provide a work shelf. The apron's design accommodates use of the ladder's own fold-down shelf and permits use of all steps without sacrificing storage space for tools and the like. The apron may further be adapted with a power receptacle so that power tools can easily be interchanged without disengaging the extension cord.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 15, 1997
    Inventor: Kevin J. Cassells
  • Patent number: 5641142
    Abstract: A ladder tray (10) is provided with a generally rectangular tray (11 ) having a panel (12) surrounded by a flange (28) which projects both above and below the panel. Two pairs of slides (31) can slide along the flange (28) at respective ends (15, 16) and the slides (31) carry the upper ends of legs (32) of U-shaped tray supports (26). The slides also include lockable pivot screws (33) which can lock both the legs (32) and the slides (31) against movement and allow bridge portions (25) of the tray supports (26) to bear against a portion of a ladder to which the tray assembly (10) is attached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 24, 1997
    Inventors: June Arlene Hanson, John Hanson
  • Patent number: 5636817
    Abstract: The present invention has a top plate with a receptacle and handle on its top surface, a bottom plate with cut-outs for holding tools, a fastener assembly for screwing the top plate to the bottom plate and a demountable leg assembly. The receptacle is designed to closely hold a gallon can. An insert enables the receptacle to hold smaller cans. When used with the leg assembly attached to the top plate, the top plate is screwed tightly against the bottom plate. The invention is designed so that the top plate does not interfere with the cut-outs. Preferably the legs telescope so that the invention can be placed on uneven surfaces and the height of the receptacle can be varied. When used without the leg assembly, the top plate is screwed to the bottom plate around any convenient horizontal support member. The screws force the top and bottom plate to clamp securely to the member. The member can be the rung of a ladder or the step of a step ladder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 10, 1997
    Inventor: Marvin E. Beachy
  • Patent number: 5624093
    Abstract: A paint tray assembly includes a ladder clamp to secure the tray to a ladder or scaffold and magnetic holder and swing-away rod providing mechanisms for retaining paint brushes in the tray. A detachable handle attaches to the tray to permit relocation of the tray from one area to another minimizing the possibility of unwanted spillage of paint from the tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 29, 1997
    Inventor: R. Wayne Gemmell
  • Patent number: 5613574
    Abstract: A combined compartmented tray and tool holster is arranged to removably clamp onto the top step of a stepladder. The tool holster presents the tool to one side of the ladder or the other as desired. An opening at the bottom of the holster permits passage therethrough of the end of the tool with any tool bit attached thereto. The tool handle rests securely in ready reach of the worker without fear of dropping the tool, while both hands are free when required. Items in the compartments are also within ease reach and view of the worker. The clamping system for clamping the device to the top step is adjustable to steps of various thicknesses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 25, 1997
    Inventor: Charles J. Melanson
  • Patent number: 5584357
    Abstract: The instant invention is directed to increasing the safety of ladders and includes an accessory holder for the top of ladders forming a tray which expands in size allowing placement of working materials in the tray. The tray collapses into a size assimilating a conventional ladder top for compact storage. The tray can be raised to various heights and allows the operator to remove the tray in its entirety to carry items to the ladder providing for convenience and safety. An alternative embodiment provides for the use of solid portions in place of a tray allowing smaller ladders such as to be used as saw horses yet provide a means for forming a smaller tray for securement of miscellaneous working materials. The improved ladder employs handles that couple to each side limb of the ladder allowing an operator to grasp the handles while climbing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 17, 1996
    Inventors: Leslie H. Gugel, Joyce A. Gugel
  • Patent number: 5582269
    Abstract: The instant invention is a ladder accessory in the form of a toolbox. The toolbox is coupled to support brackets mounted on each front leg of a conventional ladder. The toolbox includes a handle that allows for securing to the brackets when the cover is opened by forcing pinions located in the bottom of the box through pinion apertures located on each support bracket. The support bracket allows lifting of the toolbox so as to provide a safe working area for a worker on top of the ladder allowing ease of access to the necessary tools in order to accomplish a particular task. Bracket release levers are provided on each support bracket to allow lifting of the toolbox in a convenient manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 10, 1996
    Inventors: Leslie H. Gugel, Joyce A. Gugel
  • Patent number: 5558306
    Abstract: An inclined surface support platform to hold paint pails or implements, for use on a roof or ladder, with one vertical planar member and one horizontal planar member arranged and secured at right angles to one another by means of a brace on the horizontal member having holes therein to correspond with two elongated, spaced apart parallel slots in the vertical member. Bolts are inserted through the brace holes in the horizontal member into the slots of the vertical member, and the height of the horizontal member is adjusted as desired, whereupon wing nuts with washers are tightened and the support platform is ready for use. Non-slip friction-engaging means are positioned at the lower end of the vertical member and the extended end of the horizontal member to prevent slippage of the platform in use. An open handle is located in the top central portion of the vertical member for purposes of transport.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 24, 1996
    Inventors: Robert S. Binford, Gregg A. Binford
  • Patent number: 5511753
    Abstract: A paint can holder for suspending a paint can with the mouth of the can open to enable painting directly from the can, such can having a sealing rim around its mouth, includes a paint can support mountable on a ladder, the support including a collar portion to be seated on the sealing rim of the can with the mouth of the can open and covering the rim while seated thereon, the collar portion defining an opening substantially registering with the inner periphery of the paint can rim when seated thereon, a sealing ring depending from the collar portion adjacent to the opening defined thereby, for being received telescopically within the paint can rim with the mouth of the can open when the collar portion is seated on the rim, in a friction fit between the sealing ring and the inner periphery of the paint can rim, to prevent flow of paint therebetween, and structure for detachably connecting the paint can to the support for suspending the paint can from the support with the collar portion seated on the paint can
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 30, 1996
    Inventor: Randy R. Lage
  • Patent number: 5505302
    Abstract: A toolbox for a stepladder comprising a container having a holding space therein, a sealable opening for selectively allowing and preventing access to the holding space, and an outwardly extending lip adapted for hanging items thereupon; and a coupling mechanism for coupling the container to a stepladder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 9, 1996
    Inventor: Scott R. Ferley
  • Patent number: 5465809
    Abstract: A safety platform attachment (10) for ladders is shown having an expanded treaded platform (24) and mirror image torque arms (12, 14) for attachment thereto. Torque arms (12, 14) each have upper and lower ladder rung receiving seats (34, 38; 36, 40) and a plurality of automatically self adjusting locks (42) which hold the safety platform attachment securely in place on the ladder and prevent accidental dislodgement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 14, 1995
    Inventor: Richard L. Panicci
  • Patent number: 5461752
    Abstract: A ladder-upright-mountable, paint tray assembly is provided wherein at least one bracket assembly is provided on the underside of upper, paint draining portion of the paint tray assembly. Therefor each bracket assembly is a sliding fit on the ladder upright and hooks over a portion of a ladder rung adjacent that upright. A central bracket assembly may be provided alone or in combination with two side bracket assemblies. In other embodiments only two side brackets are provided. Pairs of paint container wall members may also be provided, aligned with the bracket assemblies, for the ladder upright to be slidably retained therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 31, 1995
    Inventors: Francis W. Lemon, Julian D. Lamb
  • Patent number: 5429205
    Abstract: A ladder platform accessory is provided for standing or placing accessories. The accessory comprises a platform member which protrudes to the rear of the ladder and has a front portion which attaches to a lower rung. Brackets are detachably connected on the two opposite sides of the rear portion of the platform member which attaches to an upper rung. The platform member can be adjusted so as to be horizontal to the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 4, 1995
    Inventor: David Collins
  • Patent number: 5342008
    Abstract: Brackets (30, 40) are mounted to respective sides of a hinged step ladder by spaced apart divergent channel forming means (31, 32) on each bracket fitting onto respective swing apart limbs (14, 16) of the erect ladder. The brackets (30, 40) each include a support portion (36), extending beyond one of the channel forming means (32), both to the same side of the ladder, onto which a tray or the like (50) is secured by fastening means (41) so as to provide a stable platform for tool and materials at a convenient height for a user of the ladder. One of the channel forming means (32) may be pivotally adjustable.In an alternative embodiment (FIGS. 13 to 15) one of the channel forming means of each bracket is adjustable in position relative to the other so that the channels may be selectively disposed substantially parallel to each other to fit to a single limb of a ladder or divergent from each other for engagement around opened limbs of a hinged ladder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 30, 1994
    Inventor: Derek J. Kay
  • Patent number: 5337857
    Abstract: The present invention comprises a platform for an aluminum extension ladder which platform is adjustable upwardly and downwardly, and is pivotable between a pair of side frames, to permit a user's foot a comfortable support, in addition to the ladder rung to which it is attached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 16, 1994
    Inventors: Taylor E. Spalt, Gregory P. Spalt
  • Patent number: 5275256
    Abstract: An apparatus having first and second floor plates defining a floor opening to receive a ladder therethrough is provided, with the floor plates having first and second side plates mounted to opposed ends of the floor plates, with the side plates arranged in a parallel coextensive relationship. At least one of the side plates includes a support container, and optionally, both side plates may include support containers hingedly mounted to permit pivotment together in adjacency forwardly of the apparatus. Roller structure is mounted interiorly of the side plates to guide and direct ladder legs of the ladder within the floor opening. Further, a brake lever is arranged for engagement relative to a rear wheel guide for selective positioning of the organization relative to the ladder. A floor hook cooperative with a ladder rung pulley for selective securement to an associated ladder rung is arranged to permit selective lifting of the carriage apparatus relative to the ladder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 4, 1994
    Inventor: Floyd D. Ellzey
  • Patent number: 5191954
    Abstract: A ladder platform and utility frame means is formed by a foot plate supported by adjacent ladder rungs and an open frame mounted on an elongated rod entering the lowermost ladder rung supporting the foot plate. A stub arm and lug respectively attached to the utensil frame and the foot plate stabilize the utensil frame in a substantially horizontal plane for supporting workman materials, such as paint containers and tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 9, 1993
    Inventor: Jim D. Ledford
  • Patent number: 5181582
    Abstract: A scaffold for an A-frame ladder, including a platform for being positioned between two legs of the ladder, supported on a bottom side of the platform intermediate two opposing ends thereof by a rung of the ladder and extending outwardly from opposite sides of the ladder. The scaffold includes a first strut pivotally attached to the bottom side of the platform adjacent one end thereof and extending diagonally downward for engagement with a rung of the ladder below the rung supporting the bottom side of the platform, and a second strut pivotally attached to the bottom side of the platform adjacent the other end and extending diagonally downward for engagement with the rung of the ladder with which the first strut is engaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 26, 1993
    Inventor: Merman R. Meadows
  • Patent number: 5158023
    Abstract: A scaffold table for sheet rock finishers includes a horizontal planar base with subtending walls and a spaced apart U-shaped border wall that together define a U-shaped elongate slot sized to cradle wide-bladed masonry tools therein. The table includes a pair of pivotally mounted adjustable length legs having channels on one end to rest against a horizontal scaffold bar. The forward portion of the table includes an elongate hook member to fit over a higher scaffold bar for removably attaching a table thereto. The table base is reinforced from below and includes at least one vertical hole therethrough for cradling of a nail gun or similar power tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 27, 1992
    Inventor: Tony L. Allen
  • Patent number: 5135193
    Abstract: This invention is a tray that attaches to the side of hollow-rung ladders. The tray is sized large enough to accommodate an industry standard paint-roller-pan and hold it in a convenient position for the user either at the left side or at the right side of the ladder. The tray mounts to the ladder via a shaft that passes thru one hollow-rung. Secure attachment to various width ladders is accomplished via a safety-clip inserted into one of the series of thru-holes in the free end of the shaft that extends thru the hollow-rung. Adjustment of the tray to horizontal is accomplished via a movable L-shaped support that penetrates into a second hollow-rung. This invention contains fewer and simpler parts in comparison to prior inventions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 1991
    Date of Patent: August 4, 1992
    Inventor: Thomas Parris
  • Patent number: 5120013
    Abstract: A shelf assembly for a step ladder has two upright telescoping arms. Each arm has a lower tube and an upper tube telescoped into the lower tube to allow for a change in the length of the arm. This allows the shelf assembly to be vertically extended to raise a generally horizontal platform mounted on the upper ends of the arms to a desired height relative to the top of the step ladder. A folding bracket holds the shelf in a generally horizontal position. A ball joint mounted on a channel iron connects the lower end of each arm to a leg of the ladder. A linkage connects the middle of each arm to the ladder above the ball joint. A sleeve slides on each arm to provide adjustment of the linkage relative to the leg. The linkage has two connected links that allow the arms to be folded up against the ladder legs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1992
    Inventor: Larry L. Sweeney
  • Patent number: 5098052
    Abstract: A tray member is provided including at least one pair of opposite side margin depending flanges and a center downwardly recessed portion whose undersurface is co-planar with the lower edges of the depending flanges. The downwardly recessed center portion defines an upwardly opening recess in which to receive the lower end of a paint can and the tray member includes widely spaced apart depending threaded shanks from which a clamp bar is supported through the utilization of wing nuts threadedly engaged on the shanks. The tray member may be slid into position on the horizontal shelf of a step ladder and removably clamp engaged with the shelf by tightening the wing nuts in order to clamp the shelf between the clamp bar and the underside of the tray member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 24, 1992
    Inventor: Daniel L. Beck
  • Patent number: 5079795
    Abstract: A ladder accessory (10) is conveniently mounted on a ladder (L) having spaced side rails (S) and a plurality of spaced rungs (R, R') connected thereto. The ladder accessory (10) includes a mounting means 46 and a support fixture which may be a tray (12) having side walls (22, 24) and an end wall (20) which all terminate in a marginal rim (26). A cover (14) covers at least a portion of the tray (12) and is slidably engagable on the rim (26). A support member (46) extends transversely from one of the side walls (22) to form an arrangement to mount the ladder accessory (10) on a ladder side rail (S). Hooks (54, 55) engage rungs (R, R') of the ladder (L) to hold the tray assembly (10) substantially parallel to the side rail (S). The support fixture may be some other suitable fixture such as a shelf member (64).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1990
    Date of Patent: January 14, 1992
    Inventor: Roy Schmid
  • Patent number: 5060755
    Abstract: A stepladder foot-platform comprising a large flat panel, designed to extend through the plane of the stepladder rungs, on this side as well as beyond this plane, between the frame studs, and to come to flatly abut against the top face of an intermediate rung or step. An anchoring foot is provided to frictionally, releasably, fixedly secure the panel about a horizontal plane in an operative, upright, stepladder position, this foot being secured to a lower step. Sliders also act upon the panel to prevent sliding motion of the panel in its horizontal plane, by fixedly securing same frictionally, releasably to the step onto which it rests. The footplate is characterized in that it enables a person to use it by placing his feet on the panel inwardly as well as outwardly from the ladder plane, in total safety, and in that it clears the stepladder so as not to constitute an obstruction to the free travel of that person ascending or descending that rungs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 29, 1991
    Inventors: Julien Bourdages, Anne Roy
  • Patent number: 5058707
    Abstract: A work shelf for removable installation and use on a stepladder to provide an enlarged, sturdy area for holding tools and material. The work shelf includes a platform area of a width greater than the distance between the ladder rear legs, a neck extending from one edge of the platform area and having a width less than the distance between the ladder rear legs, and a brace extending from the neck and having a width less than the distance between the ladder front legs. A retaining edge extends up from the platform area. In use, the platform area overlies and is supported on the stepladder shelf, while the neck extends between the ladder rear legs, and the brace is positioned between the ladder front legs and beneath one of the ladder steps. A clamp is movably fastened to the neck. With the work shelf in position on a stepladder the clamp is secured in a position abutting the ladder rear legs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 22, 1991
    Inventor: Calvin R. Waid
  • Patent number: 5056620
    Abstract: A stepladder platform which can be installed onto the steps of a stepladder to provide an enlarged standing area. A restraining means at the rear engages the stepladder step to prevent forward movement and tilting. A restraining means at the front prevents rearward movement. Also a latch device can be used to prevent tilting from the front. The platform is constructed to support the weight of a person standing on it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 15, 1991
    Inventors: Donald A. Zumwalt, Jean M. Zumwalt
  • Patent number: 5044466
    Abstract: A ladder platform preferably for extension ladders, has supports for receiving ladder rungs and supporting the platform in a generally level condition on any desired position between the top and the bottom of the ladder. The ladder platform provides support for someone working on the ladder and items that might be needed while working on the ladder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1990
    Date of Patent: September 3, 1991
    Inventor: Donald W. Jacobsmeyer, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5031723
    Abstract: This invention relates to devices which adapt to and attach to ladders and step ladders to enhance the balance and stability of the user and to provide support for equipment, tools and supplies. Supporting means comprising a wide foot plate and supporting means comprising a rigid shaft utensil support constitute the basic elements of the invention. The foot plate support enhances the stability, balance and comfort of the user thereby permitting the user to work for longer periods of time and freeing the users' hands.The rigid shaft utensil support is inserted through the rung of a ladder to support tools, equipment, supplies, etc., which may be placed thereon or suspended therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 1989
    Date of Patent: July 16, 1991
    Inventor: Jack D. Hooten
  • Patent number: 5029793
    Abstract: A method for holding a cup in a vehicle so that it can be accessed by a person operating the vehicle in which the cup is suspended from the vehicle mirror or like attachment point. The cup is positioned on a flat base which includes a vertical column extending upwardly therefrom along one edge. A cantilever arm extends outwardly from the vertical column to a point over the central portion of the base and over the cup positioned thereon. A semi-flexible member extends from the cantilever arm upwardly to a hook which hooks over the vehicle mirror or like suspensions point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 9, 1991
    Inventor: Arnold D. Warner
  • Patent number: 5020757
    Abstract: A ladder jack supported by an inclined ladder and adapted to securely support a work platform comprising a horizontal support member fitted with a longitudinally adjustable clamping means to securely clamp the work platform in locking engagement with the ladder jack and prevent movement of the work platform in all directions and planes while in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 1987
    Date of Patent: June 4, 1991
    Assignee: R. D. Werner Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Richard P. Sulecki, Stanley A. Kiska
  • Patent number: 5005668
    Abstract: A substantially one-piece ladder attachment is disclosed. The attachment provides a secure, laterally well-supported platform on which a worker would stand. The invention is particularly useful for an extension ladder, especially one with circular rungs. The attachment of the invention comprises a platform having a single, hollow, vertical support member projecting from one edge thereof. The vertical support is centrally disposed on the edge on which it is located. The vertical support angularly projects from the platform and is connected to an arcuate, horizontally disposed, transversely mounted upper bracket. The upper bracket is intended to engage the rung of a ladder to impart lateral stability to the platform. The attachment further includes a lower, horizontally-disposed arcuate bracket which is securely mounted to the same edge of the platform as the vertical support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 9, 1991
    Inventor: Bud C. Nowlan
  • Patent number: 4979590
    Abstract: A ladder platform for step ladder, ladder or extension ladder. The platform has two tray positions which hinge relative to one another and are movable between a storage position and a work position. One tray portion has integral handles and is securable to stiles of the ladder. The platform, in the work position, can support tools or other items.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1989
    Date of Patent: December 25, 1990
    Assignee: Bailey Aluminum Products Pty. Ltd.
    Inventor: William Bailey
  • Patent number: 4972923
    Abstract: Stepping platforms, like storage platforms suspendable on a ladder, are known from the state of the art. However, these are not variable in use and in particular cannot simultaneously meet both functions. The invention provides, that a suspension link is supported on one end of a plate with a peripheral edge, while a mounting element is provided on the other end, which mounting element can include two mounting plates, which are supported pivotally on the outside of the plate and include a recess into which a ladder crosspiece is receivable. The inventive ladder platform can be used as an accessory for all types of ladders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1989
    Date of Patent: November 27, 1990
    Assignee: Krause-Werk GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Guenther Krause
  • Patent number: 4949925
    Abstract: An adjustable, portable utility shelf includes a main tray having a flat work surface and raised sides. Slide guides are disposed along the sides of the main tray, and comprise channels for receiving correlatively shaped and inter-engageable channels on removable auxiliary trays. A clamp assembly includes a base plate rotatably attached to the rear wall of the main tray at its center, and is releasably attachable to a side rail of a ladder. The base plate has a plurality of locating holes in it forming an arc with respect to the rotatable connection between the base plate and the rear wall of the main tray. A tray support bracket attached to the center of the underside of the main tray includes a strut having a locating pin protruding therefrom. The locating pin can be placed in any one of the locating holes, fixing the tray at a selected angular orientation with respect to the base plate, and is positively retained in the selected locating hole by the weight of the tray and its contents.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 1989
    Date of Patent: August 21, 1990
    Inventor: Dennis E. Gorecki
  • Patent number: 4949810
    Abstract: A pair of attachments for use with ladders constructed with hollow rungs to stabilize the ladder and to protect the gutter. These attachments when used with ladders also provide for a scaffold plank. The attachments when used with a ladder on a pitched roof allows the ladder to be used to access that roofs peak. Previously the ladder would rest on the rain gutter when the user was to access the roof of a building. Previously a work platform had to be built from wood or metal resulting in time consuming construction. Previously when accessing the roof peak of a building a means of providing a positive foothold had to be constructed from rope and ladder or from wood. The present invention provides steel flat bars bent to fit the rung spacing of the ladder with a steel tube welded at each end sized to fit snuggly into the opening of any two consecutive rungs in that ladder. The ladder can now be used to access the roof of a building without resting on the gutter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 21, 1990
    Inventor: Wayne F. Dwinnell
  • Patent number: 4913394
    Abstract: An article holding tray assembly is for use on a ladder having elongated side pieces and lower and upper open-ended rungs joining the side pieces. The assembly includes a tray member, a backing member connected to the tray member along a straight line, a lower tubular member parallel to the line and projecting in a predetermined direction from the tray member to a free end, an upper tubular member parallel to the line and projecting in the predetermined direction from the backing member to a free end. The tubular members are adapted for insertion, free ends first, into the lower and upper rungs, with the tray and backing members substantially mutually at right angles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 1988
    Date of Patent: April 3, 1990
    Inventor: Roy Schmid