Deployable Ramp Mechanism for Mobility Obstacles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ramp solutions for assisting vehicles with reduced mobility across steps are bulky, complex, and require significant space for deployment, limiting their usability and compatibility with sidewalk irregularities.
Innovation Solution
A compact, deployable, and retractable ramp system with a stationary frame, linear actuator, and pivotally mounted arms that adjust the ramp's height using a carriage and pushers, allowing for efficient vertical displacement with minimal footprint.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If deployable and retractable ramps are used to assist vehicle crossing, then accessibility is improved, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp plate is designed to be movable between a horizontal position (providing access ramp) and an inclined position (retracted state). This dynamic positioning allows the same structure to serve dual purposes: facilitating vehicle crossing when needed and minimizing space occupation when not in use, thereby resolving the contradiction between accessibility and space complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The ramp system is divided into distinct functional components: a stationary frame, a movable plate, pivoting arms, and a linear actuator. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while simplifying the overall mechanical complexity through modular design
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional ramps are installed to cross steps, then accessibility is improved, but encroachment on public road and sidewalk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp transitions from a static structure to a dynamic one that can be deployed only when needed. The plate moves between horizontal and inclined positions, allowing the sidewalk space to be fully utilized for its original purpose when the ramp is retracted, thus eliminating permanent encroachment while maintaining accessibility when required
Solution Approach 2:
The ramp mechanism utilizes vertical movement and angular rotation instead of horizontal expansion. By pivoting the plate between horizontal and inclined positions, the system achieves ramp functionality without requiring additional horizontal sidewalk space, effectively solving the space encroachment problem
3Adaptability or versatility
If tilting telescopic ramp is used, then ramp functionality is achieved, but free distance for deployment is required
Solution Approach 1:
The plate's ability to pivot between horizontal and inclined positions eliminates the need for extensive deployment distance. The compact pivoting mechanism achieves full ramp functionality within a limited space, resolving the contradiction between functionality and deployment length requirements
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 robust, reliable, and space-saving solution for crossing steps, ensuring easy access for vehicles with reduced mobility while maintaining a low profile when not in use, thus broadening its applicability across various situations.
Implementation Method 1
a linear actuator mounted under the plate, provided with a stationary end adjacent to said second end and integral with the bottom, and with a mobile end
Implementation Method 2
a carriage movable in horizontal translation and driven by said cylinder, said carriage resting on slideways mounted on the bottom of the frame
Data Source
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Figure 5~6
AI summary
The invention relates to a device (1) for helping a wheeled vehicle pass over an obstacle, in particular for a person with impaired mobility. It comprises: - a stationary frame (2) comprising a bottom and two symmetrical parallel side walls (9, 10); - a plate (3) provided with two ends, a first end being movable between a high position and a low position in which said plate constitutes an access ramp, and - an assembly for driving said first end between a low position and a high position, said first end being supported by said drive assembly in both the low position and the high position. Said drive assembly comprises: - a linear ram mounted under the plate (3), provided with a stationary end adjacent to said second end and rigidly connected to the bottom, and a mobile end, - a carriage that is movable in horizontal translation and driven by said ram, said carriage resting on guides mounted on the bottom of the frame. Said carriage comprises two tappets, - a pair of arms, the arms being symmetrical, each arm resting on one of the tappets of the carriage, each arm supporting the first end of the plate (3); in the retracted position of the actuator, the carriage is near said second end, the arms are in the low position and the first end is in the ramp position, and in the extended position of the actuator, the carriage is near said first end, the arms are in the high position and the first end is in the high position.