Adjustable Ramp Assembly Installation for Vehicle Accessibility
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Fold-out ramps for vehicles face challenges such as limited length due to space constraints, increased weight with longer ramps, and installation complexities, which affect operability and accessibility for wheelchair-bound passengers.
Innovation Solution
An attachment system with frustoconical support members that are adjustably fixed to inboard ramp support members, allowing for vertical positioning and horizontal movement of the ramp assembly within a vehicle well, ensuring a flush installation and secure attachment to both inboard and outboard support members.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the ramp length is increased to provide a more gradual slope for wheelchair accessibility, then the accessibility is improved, but the weight of the ramp increases and more torque is required to reciprocate it between deployed and stowed positions
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp system transitions from a static fixed-length design to a dynamic adjustable-length design. The ramp can be extended or retracted based on operational needs, allowing optimization between length for accessibility and weight for ease of reciprocation. The support assembly enables the ramp to adapt its configuration dynamically.
Solution Approach 2:
The ramp length parameter can be varied to achieve the desired balance between accessibility and weight. By adjusting the ramp extension, the system changes the effective length parameter, allowing gradual slopes when needed while maintaining the ability to retract to a shorter, lighter configuration.
2Ease of operation
If the ramp length is increased to provide a more gradual slope, then the accessibility is improved, but the torque required to reciprocate the ramp between deployed and stowed positions increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp system transitions from a static fixed-length design to a dynamic adjustable-length design. The ramp can be extended or retracted based on operational needs, allowing optimization between length for accessibility and torque requirements for reciprocation.
Solution Approach 2:
The support assembly is pre-configured with adjustable support members that can be positioned to provide mechanical advantage during installation and operation. This preliminary configuration reduces the torque required during actual ramp reciprocation by distributing loads more effectively.
3Volume of moving object
If a recess or well is created in the vehicle floor to store the retracted ramp, then the ramp can be stowed, but installation challenges arise that can result in ramp operability problems
Solution Approach 1:
The support assembly incorporates adjustable support members that can be positioned at different heights and locations, allowing the system to adapt to variations in vehicle floor configurations and well dimensions, thereby simplifying installation across different vehicle models.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment system is designed with universal adaptability to accommodate different vehicle floor configurations and well dimensions. The adjustable support members and configurable attachment mechanisms allow the same ramp system to be installed in multiple vehicle types without requiring vehicle-specific customization.
Data Source
AI summary
Exemplary methods are provided for installing a ramp assembly into a vehicle. The vehicle includes a floor, a vehicle well disposed in the floor, and inboard and outboard ramp support members. In one embodiment, ramp assembly mounts, such as movable support fittings, are utilized for installing the ramp assembly into the vehicle.