Convertible steps

Abstract

A set of steps where each step is hinged to left and right stringers is disclosed. To convert the steps to a ramp, the bottom step is lifted, inverted, and laid down so that the underside of the tread of the step is exposed. Each step is lifted and laid down in the manner described above so that a ramp is formed. The top step has an additional board hinged to the underside of the tread. When the top step is inverted and laid down, the additional board is opened and laid down. The additional board acts as an extension so that the ramp reaches the floor or elevated surface to which the steps are attached. The top free edge of the additional board and the forwardmost free edge of the lower step are chamfered to provide smooth transitions from the ground to the ramp and from the ramp the elevated surface.

I claim:  
     
         1 . A convertible step and ramp combination comprising: 
 a plurality of steps including a top step and a bottom step wherein each of said steps has a top tread side and a ramp underside;    left and right stringers, and    hinge means pivotally securing each of said steps to said left and right stringers adjacent their forward edges,    whereby each of said steps can be inverted by pivoting the same about its respective hinge means to expose its ramp underside so as to form a continuous inclined surface.    
     
     
         2 . The convertible step and ramp combination of  claim 1  wherein said top step further includes means for extending said top step to reach an elevated surface when the same is inverted.  
     
     
         3 . The convertible step and ramp combination of  claim 2  wherein said extending means includes a panel hingedly attached to the underside of said top step.  
     
     
         4 . The convertible step and ramp combination of  claim 3  wherein said panel has a chamfered free edge.  
     
     
         5 . The convertible step and ramp combination of  claim 1  wherein said bottom step has a chamfered free edge.