Adjustable Vehicle Ramp System for Hitch Receiver Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle ramp systems face issues with adjustability, security, and compatibility with different vehicle geometries and accessories, leading to inefficiencies and potential damage during loading and unloading operations, as well as vulnerabilities to theft or vandalism.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable vehicle ramp system with a mounting assembly, support post, and horizontal cross bar that can be rotated and adjusted to accommodate various wheel base dimensions, allowing secure attachment to a vehicle hitch receiver, enabling secure and versatile use while maintaining compact storage and compatibility with multiple vehicle configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If ramp sections are made rigid and permanently affixed to the vehicle frame, then structural stability is improved, but adaptability to different vehicles and accessories deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp system is divided into discrete, separable sections that can be independently positioned and configured. Each ramp section can be independently adjusted and secured, allowing the system to adapt to different vehicle types and accessory configurations while maintaining structural integrity during use.
Solution Approach 2:
The ramp system transitions from a static, permanently affixed configuration to a dynamic, adjustable configuration. The ramps can be moved, repositioned, and reconfigured based on the specific vehicle and accessory being loaded, providing both adaptability and structural stability when deployed.
2Adaptability or versatility
If ramp sections are made movable and adjustable, then adaptability to different wheel base configurations is improved, but structural stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp sections are designed to be movable during configuration but provide stable support when deployed. The system allows adjustment to different wheel base configurations through movable components that lock into secure positions, ensuring structural stability during the loading operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The ramp system allows changes in geometric parameters such as ramp angle, horizontal distance from vehicle, and lateral positioning to accommodate different wheel base configurations. These parameter adjustments maintain structural stability by securing the ramps in appropriate configurations for each specific loading scenario.
3Reliability
If the ramp system is securely attached to the vehicle, then reliability during loading operations is improved, but ease of removal and repositioning deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp system uses segmented, modular components that can be independently attached and detached. This segmentation allows the ramps to be securely fastened during use for reliability, while enabling easy removal and repositioning by simply detaching the individual sections from the vehicle.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates pre-designed attachment and detachment mechanisms that facilitate quick securing and removal. The ramps are equipped with attachment points and fastening systems that enable reliable attachment before loading operations and efficient removal afterward, without requiring complex assembly or disassembly procedures.
4Ease of operation
If the ramp system is made compact for storage, then ease of transport is improved, but adjustability for different configurations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp sections are designed to nest within each other or stack in a compact configuration for transport and storage. This nesting arrangement reduces the space required for transport while preserving the full adjustability and configurability of the individual ramp sections when deployed for loading operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The segmented modular design allows the ramp system to be broken down into compact, manageable sections for easy transport. Each segment retains its functional capabilities and adjustment mechanisms, enabling full adaptability to different configurations even after compact storage and transport.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system provides a secure, adjustable, and versatile ramp solution that accommodates different vehicle geometries, reduces theft risks, and allows for efficient loading and unloading operations without interfering with vehicle structures, enhancing usability and security.
Implementation Method 1
The support post is rotatably affixed to the mounting assembly such that the post may be rotated between a stowed position in which the post is in a substantially vertical position and a second position in which the support post is rotated away from the vehicle to allow a tailgate or cargo doors to be opened.
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable vehicle loading ramp system that removably cooperates with a vehicle mounted hitch receiver and provides a rearward directed supplemental hitch receiver. The loading ramp system includes a pair of ramp sections that are movably connected to a mounting system to provide a plurality of lateral distances between the respective ramp sections. The assembly is stowable to achieve a compact orientation of the loading ramp system relative to a tailgate of a vehicle and an in-use position wherein the ramp sections can be deployed to provide a supported incline into the bed or cargo area of the underlying vehicle.