Access device

Abstract

An access device for providing access between a lower substrate surface and an upper substrate surface. The access device includes upper and lower articulated ladder members. A first end of the upper member is pivotally connected to or near the upper surface. A second end of the lower member is pivotally connected to the second end of the upper member, such that the lower ladder member is rotatable 180° relative to the upper member. In the storage position, the ladder members are folded in a substantially compact upright disposition, while, in the access position, the members are aligned and extend downwardly and outwardly.

What is claimed is:  
     
         1 . A retractable access device for providing access between a substrate surface and an elevated surface of a vehicle such as a train, said access device comprising: 
 support means attached to or integral with a side surface of said vehicle;    a first ladder member pivotally connected at a first end thereof to said support means adjacent to said elevated surface of said vehicle;    a second ladder member pivotally connected at a first end thereof to a second end of said first ladder member;    a cylinder or like mechanism, a first end thereof being pivotally attached to said support means, and, a second end thereof being pivotally attached to said first ladder member spaced apart from said first end thereof,    a guide arm, a first end thereof being pivotally attached to said support means and a second end thereof being pivotally attached to said second ladder means at any position therealong;    whereby, said device is movable between a storage position and an access position in a single movement step, wherein as said cylinder is extended, said fist ladder member is pivoted outwardly from said vehicle, and, under the influence of said guide arm, said second ladder member is simultaneously rotated outwardly relative to said first ladder member, and    wherein, in a storage position, said ladder members are folded in a substantially upright disposition in a compact and overlapping manner adjacent said side surface of said vehicle, and, in an access position, said ladder members are aligned and outwardly inclined at an angle of between 60° and 75° relative to said substrate surface.    
     
     
         2 . A retractable access device as claimed in  claim 1 , wherein each of said ladder members includes at least one handrail.  
     
     
         3 . A retractable access device as claimed in  claim 1 , wherein, in said access position, said ladder members are inclined at approximately 62° relative to said substrate surface.