Retaining and retrieval apparatus for storage of a ladder upon a vehicle shelf area

摘要

An apparatus for allowing storage of a ladder vertically above a shelf area defined on a vehicle while allowing powered movement of the apparatus to the retrieval position laterally adjacent the vehicle shelf area to easily allow removal of the ladder is disclosed. The design includes a U-shaped ladder holding bracket for holding the upper area of the ladder and a loop-shaped lower retaining bracket to allow the legs of the ladder to extend therein for securement. The retaining apparatus is mounted by a plurality of brackets and link arms to easily allow movement between the retrieval and the storage position. These arms also maintain the upper area of the ladder above the lower portion of the ladder such that it easily avoids contact with structures normally associated with the front of a vehicle such as the cab height, rearview mirrors, doors, etc. In this manner a ladder held in the storage position would be maintained in an inclined orientation. This inclined orientation further facilitates securement of the ladder by allowing the legs to extend into the loop retaining openings and only requires fixed securement on the bracket holding the upper area of the ladder thereby simplifying the design and yet achieving full efficiency and securement.