Structure synthesis and statics analysis of a foldable stair

This paper proposes a foldable stair that can be deployed for use and folded for conservation and investigates the geometry and statics of the structure. It not only has the moving flexibility of a mechanism but also has the high stiffness and high strength of statically indeterminate structures. The primary linkage is a deployable scissor-like element which forms the staircase after expanding. This paper starts with the analysis of the geometry of planar four- and six-bar mechanisms and processes to synthesize the foldable stair and then investigates its statics. The paper further investigates redundant inner forces of every link based on the second Castigliano theorem, develops a foldable stair model, assembles and manufactures. Working experiments verify the theoretical results and the outstanding advantages over the general fixed stairs. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.