Foldable Vehicle Ramp Assembly With Slide-Assisted Deployment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing passenger vehicles lack a ramp system that can be easily integrated into modified door openings of original equipment manufacturer vehicles to accommodate physically limited passengers, particularly those using wheelchairs, without requiring significant structural modifications.
Innovation Solution
A ramp assembly comprising a first and second ramp plate, a ramp assist assembly, and a link system with a slide mechanism, including a flexible link and a clock spring, to deploy and retract the ramp efficiently, allowing it to fit within various vehicle door openings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a ramp is added to accommodate physically limited passengers, then accessibility is improved, but device complexity and structural modifications increase
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp is divided into multiple segments (first ramp plate and second ramp plate) that can be independently positioned and configured. This segmentation allows the ramp to adapt to different door opening sizes and vehicle configurations without requiring extensive structural modifications to the vehicle body.
Solution Approach 2:
The ramp employs dynamic positioning mechanisms including rotatable couplings between ramp plates and adjustable support structures. This enables the ramp to be deployed in different configurations depending on the specific vehicle door opening, providing adaptability while maintaining a compact stowed position that minimizes structural impact.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the door opening is widened to provide wheelchair access, then accessibility is improved, but vehicle structural integrity and manufacturing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp system is designed to nest within the existing vehicle door structure and opening. The multiple ramp plates can be stacked or nested when not in use, allowing the system to fit within the original door footprint without requiring permanent widening or structural modifications to the vehicle body.
Solution Approach 2:
The ramp assembly is designed as a universal solution that can be installed in various vehicle types and door configurations without requiring custom structural modifications. The standardized interface and adjustable components allow the same ramp system to accommodate different door opening dimensions while preserving original vehicle structure.
3Ease of operation
If a link system with slide mechanism is used to deploy the ramp, then deployment smoothness is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The link system combines multiple functions into integrated components. The slide mechanism is merged with the ramp plate structure itself, and the cam mechanism is integrated into the connection between ramp plates. This merging reduces the number of separate parts while maintaining smooth deployment through coordinated motion of the combined elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam mechanism acts as an intermediary element that translates rotational motion into linear sliding motion of the ramp plates. This intermediary component enables smooth, controlled deployment without requiring complex direct-drive mechanisms, simplifying the overall link system while maintaining operational ease.
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 ramp assembly provides seamless wheelchair access by deploying and retracting smoothly within the vehicle door opening, reducing the need for extensive vehicle modifications and enhancing accessibility for physically limited passengers.
Implementation Method 1
A ramp fold arm assembly is coupled to a ramp assist assembly and to the first ramp plate, wherein the ramp assist assembly directs deployment and retraction of the ramp plate
Implementation Method 2
A link system is connected to the ramp fold arm assembly and to the second ramp plate, wherein the link system includes a slide mechanism coupled to an underside of the first ramp plate
Implementation Method 3
a first ramp plate, a second ramp plate rotatably coupled to the first ramp plate
Data Source
AI summary
A ramp assembly for providing passenger access to a passenger vehicle. The ramp assembly includes a ramp having a first ramp plate, a second ramp plate rotatably coupled to the first ramp plate, and a ramp assist assembly. A ramp fold arm is coupled to the ramp assist assembly and to the first ramp plate, wherein the ramp assist assembly directs deployment and retraction of the ramp plate. The link system is connected to the ramp fold arm and to the second ramp plate, wherein the link system includes a slide mechanism coupled to an underside of the first ramp plate. The slide mechanism maintains tension for the link system when deploying and retracting the ramp from the vehicle.