Foldable Pet Ramp with Adjustable Support Angles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Older or sick dogs face difficulties in jumping onto elevated surfaces like sofas, which can lead to joint issues and discomfort, necessitating a safer and easier means for them to access these areas.
Innovation Solution
A foldable pet ramp apparatus with a base and ramp that can be adjusted to various angles, allowing dogs to climb safely and comfortably onto higher locations, and can be compactly stored when not in use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fixed ramp structure is used to help dogs climb onto elevated surfaces, then accessibility and safety are improved, but the device occupies permanent space and cannot be stored when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp structure is designed to be dynamically reconfigurable between an extended operational position and a collapsed storage position. The base members and ramp members are connected through pivot joints that allow the ramp to be deployed at various angles and then folded flat against the sofa or stored elsewhere when not in use.
Solution Approach 2:
The ramp is divided into separate modular components including a base with base members and a ramp section with ramp members. These segmented parts can be independently positioned and adjusted, allowing the ramp to be configured for different heights and angles, and easily collapsed for storage by separating and folding the components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a ramp with fixed angle is used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but the ramp cannot adapt to different heights or surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp incorporates movable connections between base members and ramp members that allow the ramp angle to be dynamically adjusted. Users can pivot the ramp section to different angles to match various surface heights, transforming a static structure into an adaptable one without requiring complex mechanical systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The base members are pre-configured with attachment points and the ramp members are pre-designed with corresponding connection mechanisms. This preliminary arrangement of components allows for quick angle adjustments by simply pivoting pre-positioned sections rather than requiring complex assembly or disassembly procedures.
3Area of stationary object
If a compact storage design is implemented, then space efficiency is improved, but the ramp may be difficult to set up or disassemble
Solution Approach 1:
The collapse mechanism utilizes natural gravity and simple pivot joints that allow the ramp to fold flat against itself or the base structure. When the ramp members are pivoted to a horizontal position, they naturally collapse into a compact configuration that fits against the sofa or can be stored in a small space, while the same dynamic joints enable easy deployment by simply opening the structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The ramp members are designed to nest against the base members or against each other when collapsed. The modular components fit together in a nested arrangement during storage, with the ramp section folding flat against the base structure, maximizing space efficiency while maintaining simple setup and takedown procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
The present pet ramp apparatus includes a base, a ramp, and a support between the base and the ramp. The base and ramp are swingably engaged to each other. The support and ramp are swingably engaged to each other. The support is removably engaged to the base at spaced apart receptors, where changing the receptors changes the height of the upper end of the ramp and further changes the angle of inclination of the ramp.