Foldable Side Barrier Assembly With Locking for Retractable Ramps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing retractable ramps in public transport vehicles lack effective safety mechanisms for side barriers that can be folded into the vehicle's floor without increasing its height and remain locked in the unfolded position during use, while preventing accidental unfolding.
Innovation Solution
A modular side barrier assembly with a hinged parallelogram structure and biasing means, featuring a locking device to maintain the side barrier in the unfolded position and facilitate easy installation and folding, ensuring stability and safety without increasing the vehicle's height.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the side barrier is made foldable to fit into the space below the floor, then the space utilization is improved, but the reliability of the barrier remaining locked in the unfolded position deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The side barrier is designed to be dynamically changeable between folded and unfolded positions. The barrier can be folded into the space below the floor when not in use and unfolded to provide protection when needed. This dynamic capability resolves the contradiction by making the barrier adaptable to different operational states rather than fixed in one position.
Solution Approach 2:
The side barrier is divided into multiple segments or sections that can move independently. This segmentation allows the barrier to be folded into a compact configuration below the floor while maintaining the ability to extend to the required height when unfolded. The segmented structure enables space-efficient storage without compromising the protective function when deployed.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the side barrier is made height-adjustable to protect different users, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The side barrier incorporates adjustable height capability through a dynamic mechanism that allows the barrier height to be changed. This enables the barrier to adapt to different user requirements (wheelchair users, pedestrians, cyclists) while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure. The adjustment mechanism is integrated into the foldable design, so that height adjustment and folding/unfolding operations are coordinated.
3Ease of manufacture
If the side barrier is made removable for easy installation, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the strength of the barrier connection deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The side barrier assembly is designed as a separate, removable module that can be easily installed and removed from the platform. This segmentation enables easy manufacturing and installation while maintaining strong connection through dedicated attachment interfaces. The modular design allows the barrier to be manufactured independently and then securely mounted to the platform when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The side barrier is pre-assembled as a complete module with all necessary components attached before installation on the platform. This preliminary assembly simplifies the installation process on-site while ensuring that all connection points and structural elements are properly configured and tested before the barrier is mounted to the platform, thereby maintaining connection strength.
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 modular side barrier assembly provides secure, space-efficient protection for passengers by maintaining the side barrier in the unfolded position during use and allowing easy retraction when not in use, enhancing safety and convenience.
Implementation Method 1
biasing means configured to automatically push the side barrier to the unfolded position when the platform is in the operational position
Implementation Method 2
locking device configured to lock the side barrier in the unfolded position and prevent accidental folding
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a modular side barrier assembly for a ramp platform for transport vehicles that is integrated below the floor in an area adjacent to a door, which extends and retracts when it moves between a resting position and an operating position. The modular assembly comprises:a barrier support configured by way of an oblong platenremovable fastening means for fastening the barrier support to one of the side edges of the platform;a side barrier capable of moving between a folded position, in which it does not protrude or protrudes a minimum distance from the upper face of the barrier support, allowing the platform to be concealed below the floor in the resting position, and an unfolded position, in which the side barrier protrudes a maximum distance above the upper face of the barrier support, depending on whether all or part of the side barrier has come out outside, beyond the floor edge when the platform is moved between the resting position and the platform operating position.