Automated Tilting and Extendable Ramp Access for Transport Vehicles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Public transport vehicles like buses and light rail vehicles pose accessibility challenges for passengers using wheelchairs or mobility assistive devices due to the need to step up/down from road level to vehicle level, with ramps often unavailable at most stops.
Innovation Solution
An access system comprising a containment module embedded in the ground with a tilting frame and extension frame, controlled by a controller, to provide a ramp that extends from the ground to the vehicle, ensuring smooth access for passengers with mobility aids.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fixed ramp is installed at the stop, then accessibility for wheelchair users is improved, but the ramp obstructs the roadway when not in use and requires manual placement/removal
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp system transitions from a static fixed ramp to a dynamic automated system. The ramp is mounted on a movable platform that can be elevated and lowered automatically via a lift mechanism controlled by a control system, eliminating the need for manual placement while maintaining accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service through automated operation. When a wheelchair user approaches the stop, the control system automatically activates the lift mechanism to elevate the platform and extend the ramp, then retracts and lowers it after use, without requiring manual intervention from operators or passengers.
2Ease of operation
If the ramp is extended to minimize gaps, then accessibility is improved, but the ramp structure becomes more complex and requires greater stability
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp system is divided into segmented components: a base platform mounted on the containment module, an extendable ramp section that can be adjusted in length, and a lift mechanism. This segmentation allows the ramp to extend only as needed to minimize gaps while maintaining structural simplicity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The system solves the gap minimization problem by adding vertical dimension through the lift mechanism. Instead of extending the ramp horizontally across the entire roadway, the platform is elevated vertically to meet the vehicle floor level, and the ramp extends only the necessary horizontal distance from the elevated position.
3Device complexity
If manual ramp placement is required, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity and efficiency of passenger boarding deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The manual mechanical operation of placing and securing ramps is replaced with an automated electromechanical system. A motorized lift mechanism controlled by electronic controls automatically elevates the platform and deploys the ramp, significantly improving boarding efficiency while maintaining manageable system complexity through standardized components.
4Stability of the object's composition
If the containment module is embedded in the ground, then the ramp system is stabilized, but installation complexity and drainage requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The containment module is designed as a universal pre-cast concrete structure that combines multiple functions: structural containment for the mechanical components, foundation support for the lift mechanism, and integrated drainage channels. This multi-functionality simplifies installation by eliminating the need for separate drainage infrastructure while ensuring system stability.
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
Enables safe and automated ramp access for wheelchair users and others, minimizing gaps and tripping hazards, and facilitating efficient passenger boarding without manual intervention.
Implementation Method 1
a tilting frame pivotally mounted to the subframe member and actuable such that a free end of the tilting frame is able to be elevated and lowered with respect to the subframe member
Implementation Method 2
a tilting frame pivotally mounted to the subframe member and actuable such that a free end of the tilting frame is able to be elevated and lowered
Implementation Method 3
an extension frame mounted within the tilting frame adjacent the free end thereof, the extension frame actuable to extend from and retract into the extension frame when the extension frame is in an elevated position
Data Source
AI summary
An access system for providing ramp access to a vehicle comprising: a containment module mounted within a ground surface; a subframe member mounted to a base surface of the containment module to extend substantially over the base surface of the containment module; a tilting frame pivotally mounted to the subframe member and actuable such that a free end of the tilting frame is able to be elevated and lowered with respect to the subframe member; a extension frame mounted within the tilting frame adjacent the free end thereof, the extension frame actuable to extend from and retract into the extension frame when the extension frame is in an elevated position; wherein, movement of the tilting frame and the extension frame is controlled by a controller to extend from the ground surface to the vehicle to facilitate ramp access to the vehicle