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Steel Ladder deflection

Steel Ladder deflection

Steel Ladder deflection

(OP)
I'm designing a structural steel ladder of about 7.5m (25ft) in length. However I am wondering if a deflection of L/300 is enough or if it should be stiffer.
Any suggestions.
Thanks in advance.

RE: Steel Ladder deflection

Keep in mind that you essentially need to design for "pedestrian comfort" in this case.  Structural failure is not the issue, but moreso a human factors issue.  If a person feels "unsafe" then this may lead to overcompensation for movement which can lead to falls or other panic response.  L/300 would allow an inch of deflection, which to most would be excessive.  Those who use ladders consistently would get used to the movement but the occasional user would likely respond differently.

The rungs on the ladder could be designed for a greater unit deflection (L/240 or so), but the rails might need to be designed for L/400 or L/500 just to keep the user with a "warm, fuzzy feeling".

RE: Steel Ladder deflection

(OP)
That seems logic enough, I also thought that an inch would be a little 'freaky', but wasn't sure.
Thanks Ron, appreciate the help.

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