Modular Loading Ramp With Removable Treads For Compact Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Loading ramps are cumbersome to store and often struggle to support heavy weights efficiently, as they are typically long and require significant space when folded or stowed.
Innovation Solution
A loading ramp design featuring a first and second ramp portion with non-linear rail portions and removably attached tread portions, allowing for easy attachment and detachment, and the ability to fold into a compact shape, enabling efficient storage and support of heavy weights.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the loading ramp is made long to support heavy weights, then the weight support capability is improved, but the storage space requirement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The loading ramp is divided into multiple modular sections that can be connected together. Each section contains its own tread portions and rail portions, allowing the ramp to be assembled in different lengths depending on the weight support requirements while maintaining compact storage of individual sections.
Solution Approach 2:
The ramp portions are designed to nest within each other when not in use, with smaller sections fitting inside larger ones. This nesting arrangement significantly reduces the storage volume required while preserving the full extended length capability for supporting heavy weights.
2Strength
If the loading ramp is made long to support heavy weights, then the weight support capability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp incorporates movable connections between sections that allow for easy assembly and disassembly. The modular design with standardized interfaces enables users to quickly configure the ramp length needed for the task at hand and easily store sections when not in use.
Solution Approach 2:
By segmenting the ramp into manageable sections with standardized connection mechanisms, the system becomes easier to operate and store. Users can assemble only the necessary length for each task rather than handling a single long ramp, improving operational ease while maintaining weight support capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the tread portions are removably attached to the rail portions, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The separation of treads from rails creates modular components that can be independently selected and configured. This segmentation enables adaptability for different applications while the standardized connection interfaces keep the attachment mechanism simple and intuitive.
Solution Approach 2:
The removable attachment system creates universal interfaces that can accommodate different tread and rail configurations. A single rail portion can work with multiple tread types, and treads can be repositioned along the rail, providing versatility without requiring complex specialized attachment mechanisms for each configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
A loading ramp is supported between a first surface and a second surface. The loading ramp includes a first ramp portion. The first ramp portion includes a first rail portion extending between a first end and an opposing second end. The first ramp portion includes at least one first tread portion removably attached to the first rail portion. The at least one first tread portion supports a weight. The loading ramp includes a second ramp portion attached to the first ramp portion. The second ramp portion includes a second rail portion extending between a third end, which is attached to the second end of the first rail portion, and an opposing fourth end. The second ramp portion includes at least one second tread portion removably attached to the second rail portion. The at least one second tread portion supports the weight.