Transformable step system with ramp function

Abstract

Transformable step system with ramp function, comprising several steps, each step having a tread and a riser, characterized in that a front section of the tread and an upper section of the riser are coupled to each other via hinged connections and form a common inclined surface in ramp mode, the tread having integrated, fold-out support feet which, in the inclined state, automatically pivot into a position substantially perpendicular to the inclined surface and serve as additional supports.

Description

1. Purpose of the invention The invention provides a step system that can be quickly and safely converted into an inclined ramp as needed, to facilitate the transport of people with reduced mobility and heavy loads. The system enables accessibility without additional external ramps or structural modifications. 2. Technical problem Conventional staircases are unusable for wheelchairs, hospital beds, transport trolleys, and heavy objects. External ramps require additional space and are often heavy, unwieldy, or a constant obstruction. An integrated system that functions as both a staircase and a stable ramp without altering the building structure is lacking. 3. Technical field The invention lies in the field of building and construction technology, in particular in the field of stair systems, barrier-free access solutions and modular interior fittings. 3.1 Technical effect and advantages of the invention The invention enables overcoming a height difference without the repeated vertical lifting of loads required with conventional stairs. By transforming the individual steps into a continuous inclined surface, the movement of the transported goods is reduced to a pushing or pulling motion along the ramp. This eliminates the need to lift the weight step by step, and the required force is distributed over a smooth, controllable movement. Even at steeper ramp angles, there is a significant reduction in physical strain, as the load is no longer lifted vertically but moved along the inclined surface. The invention thus enables the safe and energy-efficient movement of wheelchairs, hospital beds, transport trolleys, or other loads, allowing the operator to stop, brake, or control the movement at any time. This results in considerable ergonomic relief and reduces the risk of injury or strain. 4. Object of the invention The object of the invention is to provide a step system that: • can be quickly converted from a staircase to a ramp, • ensures high load-bearing capacity and stability, • is compact, low-maintenance and durable, • requires no additional external aids, • can be integrated into existing buildings. 5. Solution to the task The problem is solved by a stair construction in which: • a front section of the tread and an upper section of the riser are connected to each other via joints, • these two sections form a common inclined surface (hypotenuse) in ramp mode, • support feet are integrated into the tread which automatically pivot into a position perpendicular to the inclined surface in ramp mode and serve as additional supports. 6. Solution approach of the invention The core approach involves transforming the geometric elements of a step (tread + riser) to form a continuous inclined surface. Integrated support pedestals bear the load and prevent deflection, resulting in a stable, self-supporting ramp structure. 7. Components 7.1 Mechanical Module • Tread with integrated joints • Upper section of the riser • Hinged connections between tread and riser • Lateral locking elements for stair and ramp modes • Integrated support feet (foldable, spring-loaded, or mechanically guided) • Slip-resistant surfaces • Support profiles made of aluminum or fiber composite materials 7.2 Electrical Module • Sensors for detecting the operating mode • Electromotive assistance during unfolding • LED lighting for marking the ramp surface • Safety switch for locking 8. Functionality and advantages • Quick changeover between stairs and ramp • High stability thanks to support feet at a 90° angle to the ramp • No external ramps required • Space-saving and fully integrable • Ideal for hospitals, nursing homes, residential buildings and transport areas • Low maintenance and durable • Increased safety thanks to locking mechanisms and non-slip surfaces 9. Compatibility with standard products • Can be installed in existing stairwells • Compatible with standard stair widths and heights • Usable with wheelchairs, hospital beds, transport trolleys, shopping trolleys • No special additional equipment required 10. Summary of the advantages • Accessibility without modifications • Immediate usability • High load-bearing capacity • Easy operation • Modular design • Low costs compared to lifts or platforms 11. State of the art and comparison Known solutions include: • external ramps, • mobile ramps, • platform lifts, • stairlifts, • folding attic stairs. None of these systems utilizes the existing steps themselves to form a ramp. None of them integrate support feet into the tread. None of them forms a hypotenuse from the step and riser. 12. Comparison to the state of the art / today In contrast to current solutions: • the invention requires no additional space, • is immediately available, • is mechanically simple, • is cost-effective, • is modular and retrofittable, • is more stable than mobile ramps. 13. Degree of innovation The invention is novel because: • the transformation of tread and riser into a common hypotenuse is not known, • integrated support feet at a 90° angle to the ramp are unique, • the system is fully integrated into the staircase, • no comparable solution exists in the prior art. 14. Ergonomic and sustainable features • Reduced effort required for transport • Improved accessibility for people with mobility impairments • Durable materials • Low maintenance • Energy efficient (no electronics required) • Reusable and replaceable modules

Claims

Transformable step system with ramp function, comprising several steps, each step having a tread and a riser, characterized in that a front section of the tread and an upper section of the riser are coupled to each other via hinged connections and form a common inclined surface in ramp mode, the tread having integrated, fold-out support feet which, in the inclined state, automatically pivot into a position substantially perpendicular to the inclined surface and serve as additional supports. Step system according to claim 1, characterized in that the support feet are completely contained within the tread surface when folded in. Step system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the support feet are spring-loaded or mechanically guided and extend automatically when transitioning to ramp mode. Step system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the articulated connections between the tread and riser have lateral locking elements which positively secure both the stair mode and the ramp mode. Step system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that treads, risers and support profiles are made of lightweight, high-strength materials, in particular aluminium, fiber composites or reinforced polymers. Step system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the support feet have non-slip end caps or contact surfaces to ensure a secure load transfer on the substrate. Step system according to one of the preceding claims, suitable for hospitals, nursing homes, residential buildings with limited mobility and for the transport of heavy loads. Step system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that sensors or electric drives are provided which support the unfolding of the support feet or the pivoting of the tread surface. Step system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a foldable ramp structure is arranged along a wall or railing side, which in the unfolded state can be connected to the railing or wall construction via hook elements or locking profiles and serves as an additional or alternative ramp surface.

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