Counterbalance Hinge Assembly With Cam-Controlled Ramp Torque
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies for deploying and stowing ramps, platforms, and doors on vehicles are burdensome to operate, pose tripping hazards, and hinder access due to the use of cables, winches, and motors.
Innovation Solution
A counterbalance hinge assembly that incorporates a cam and compression device to counterbalance the weight of doors or ramps, reducing the force required to move them between stowed and deployed positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If cables, winches, or motors are used to deploy and stow ramps, then the weight of the ramp can be managed, but the device complexity increases and accessibility is hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a compression device (spring) that stores potential energy when the ramp is in the stowed position and releases it during deployment, effectively counterbalancing the ramp's weight. This eliminates the need for complex motors or winches while managing the heavy ramp weight through mechanical energy storage and release.
Solution Approach 2:
The compression device is pre-loaded with potential energy during the stowing phase, so that when deployment is needed, the stored energy is already available to assist movement. This preliminary energy storage eliminates the need for active power systems during deployment.
2Ease of operation
If cables are used to control ramp movement, then force can be applied to move the ramp, but tripping hazards are created and accessibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes the harmful element (exposed cables) from the system entirely by replacing them with an internal compression device mechanism. The cam-follower system translates the compression force into controlled ramp movement without requiring external cables that could create tripping hazards.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam-follower mechanism serves as an intermediary between the compression device and the ramp, translating the linear force from the spring into controlled rotational movement of the ramp. This intermediary mechanism eliminates the need for direct cable connection while maintaining controlled deployment.
3Speed
If the ramp is allowed to move freely under gravity, then deployment is easier initially, but uncontrolled acceleration causes injury or damage
Solution Approach 1:
The cam-follower mechanism provides continuous mechanical feedback throughout the ramp's movement arc. The cam profile is specifically designed to modulate the follower's position, creating a feedback loop that automatically regulates the ramp's speed and acceleration, preventing uncontrolled movement while maintaining smooth deployment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static support structure to a dynamic controlled system where the cam profile actively adjusts the ramp's movement characteristics throughout its range of motion. The varying geometry of the cam ensures that the ramp moves smoothly and controllably at all positions, preventing gravitational runaway while enabling easy deployment.
4Force
If a single finger force is applied to move the ramp, then minimal effort is required, but precise control of the movement is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The cam-follower mechanism acts as a mechanical intermediary that amplifies and refines the operator's minimal finger force into precise control of the heavy ramp. The cam geometry translates small input forces into controlled, proportional movement throughout the entire range of motion, making the ramp as controllable as a lightweight object.
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 counterbalance hinge assembly minimizes the effort needed to deploy or stow ramps and platforms, prevents uncontrolled movement, and eliminates the need for exposed cables, thereby enhancing safety and accessibility.
Implementation Method 1
The counterbalance hinge assembly includes a cam and compression device that counterbalances a weight of a door or a ramp. The compression device biases against a rotation of the door or ramp.
Implementation Method 2
The movement of the door or ramp drives cam followers of a cam follower holder against the cam. The counterbalance hinge assembly lessens a force needed to move the door or ramp between stowed and deployed positions.
Data Source
AI summary
A counterbalance hinge assembly includes a cam and compression device that counterbalances a weight of a door or a ramp. The compression device biases against a rotation of the door or ramp. The downward movement of the door or ramp drives cam followers in angled slots or cam surfaces of the cam. The angled slots or cam surfaces include varying angles of incline to correspond to varying torque forces of the door or ramp during the opening or closing movement of the door or ramp.