Hitch-Mounted Step Apparatus with Segmented Ramp for Stable Vehicle Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for accessing and loading recreational vehicles or heavy equipment onto transport vehicles are unsafe, difficult to maneuver, and lack easy storage and traction, particularly for elderly or disabled individuals.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible step apparatus comprising a post device with adjustable step platforms and a hitch connecting device, providing a stable, easy-to-store, and easy-to-attach solution that includes a rectangular loop and parallel plates for traction, allowing safe access and loading/unloading of vehicles and equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a ramp is used to access the vehicle bed or load recreational vehicles, then loading becomes easier, but the ramp may be unstable or jarred loose from the bed of the truck, causing injury or damage
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp system is divided into separate components: a hitch-mounted support structure that remains attached to the truck and a removable ramp surface. This segmentation allows the support structure to provide stable anchoring while the ramp surface can be easily positioned and removed, resolving the contradiction between loading ease and stability.
Solution Approach 2:
A hitch-mounted support structure serves as an intermediary between the truck and the ramp. This intermediary provides a stable, fixed attachment point that prevents the ramp from being jarred loose, while still allowing easy loading operations. The support structure acts as a mediator that transfers loads safely between the truck and ramp.
2Ease of operation
If a motorcycle is driven up or down a ramp, then loading becomes easier, but the driver may tip the cycle over or drive off the edge of the ramp, resulting in injury or damage
Solution Approach 1:
The hitch-mounted support structure provides a pre-established, stable foundation before the ramp is used. This prior preparation ensures that the ramp is securely supported from the beginning, preventing tipping or falling accidents during motorcycle loading operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure acts as an intermediary that stabilizes the ramp system, preventing harmful effects such as tipping or falling. By providing a fixed attachment point, it mediates between the motorcycle's weight and the ramp structure, preventing catastrophic failures.
3Ease of operation
If a traditional ramp is used, then loading becomes easier, but the ramp is difficult to store and attach to a truck
Solution Approach 1:
The hitch-mounted support structure serves multiple functions: it provides stable support for the ramp, attaches securely to the truck via the hitch receiver, and can be easily stored when not in use. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction between loading ease and storage difficulty.
Solution Approach 2:
The ramp system is designed to be dynamic rather than static - the ramp surface can be easily positioned and removed, and the support structure can be quickly attached and detached from the hitch receiver. This dynamic design allows easy storage and attachment while maintaining loading ease.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and method for a step apparatus includes a post device, at least one step platform, and a hitch connecting device. Step platform includes a rectangular loop and two parallel plates, each of the parallel plates connecting on a first end to opposing side walls, respectively, of the post device and on a second end to the rectangular loop. The hitch connecting device connects the post device to a transport vehicle.