Bus Suspension and Ramp Control for Accessibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing passenger bus systems face challenges in ensuring accessibility and ride comfort, particularly for passengers with mobility issues, due to limitations in suspension and access ramp systems that fail to maintain optimal slopes and grades, leading to inefficiencies and discomfort.
Innovation Solution
The integration of fully or semi-automated passenger access ramps and controllably contractible and extendible suspension units, which can be operated independently or in conjunction with each other, to facilitate easy access and improve ride comfort by adjusting slopes and grades automatically, ensuring compliance with accessibility regulations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional fixed suspension systems are used, then the bus structure is simple and reliable, but the ramp slope cannot be adjusted to meet accessibility requirements for different surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by replacing fixed suspension systems with actively controllable extensible suspension units that can dynamically adjust their length to modify the ramp slope angle in real-time, enabling the system to adapt to different surface conditions and accessibility requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by controlling the extension and contraction of suspension units to alter the physical parameters of the ramp system, specifically the slope angle and height differential, allowing the same ramp structure to serve multiple accessibility scenarios
2Manufacturing precision
If manual ramp operation is used, then the system is simple to operate, but it cannot maintain constant slope or enforce maximum grade requirements automatically
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms through controllers that receive input from sensors monitoring ramp position, slope angle, and surface conditions, then automatically adjust suspension unit extension to maintain constant slope or enforce maximum grade requirements without manual intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service by automatically controlling the extensible suspension units to maintain optimal ramp conditions based on pre-programmed parameters or real-time sensor data, eliminating the need for manual operation while ensuring compliance with accessibility standards
3Ease of operation
If suspension units are extended to lower the bus for easier passenger entry, then accessibility is improved, but the bus body height decreases affecting ride comfort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by controlling individual suspension units on different sides of the bus independently, allowing one side to extend for easier passenger entry while the other side maintains normal height for ride comfort, or coordinating both sides to maintain constant body height through compensatory adjustment
4Adaptability or versatility
If ramp panels are deployed to create a continuous path, then passenger accessibility is improved, but the ramp occupies bus interior space when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements the nesting principle by designing the ramp panels to fold into and nest within the bus body structure when not in use, utilizing recessed areas or dedicated storage compartments to accommodate the ramp panels in a compact configuration that minimizes interior space occupation
Data Source
AI summary
Improved passenger access and suspension systems for passenger buses, and controllers configured for use therewith; and passenger buses incorporating such systems and controllers. Integrated access ramp and suspension systems provide improvements in fully- or semi-automatic ramp deployment, including minimum-grade modes, as well as ride control and automated suspension and ramp configuration in specified geographic locations or within specified proximities of structures.