Modular Ramp Segmentation for Handling and Noise
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing metal ramps for pedestrian and urban mobility vehicle access are cumbersome to handle and install, require multiple operators and machinery for placement, generate noise, and occupy significant storage and transport space.
Innovation Solution
A modular ramp composed of multiple units made of injectable plastic material, each with a hollow monobloc design and coupling means for easy assembly and disassembly, featuring a tongue and groove system for connection and non-slip surfaces for safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If metal ramps are used for pedestrian and vehicle access, then structural strength is ensured, but handling difficulty increases and installation complexity arises
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp is divided into multiple modular units that can be independently handled and assembled. Each unit is a separate component with coupling means, allowing operators to handle smaller, lighter pieces rather than moving a single large metal ramp structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The ramp uses composite construction combining plastic material for the ramp body with metal reinforcement elements. This provides sufficient structural strength while reducing the overall weight and handling complexity compared to solid metal construction.
2Stability of the object's composition
If single-piece metal ramps are used, then structural integrity is maintained, but installation time increases and machinery requirements arise
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp structure is segmented into multiple units that can be assembled on-site. This allows for faster installation compared to transporting and positioning a single large metal ramp, as the modular units can be quickly connected using the coupling means.
Solution Approach 2:
The ramp units are pre-manufactured with integrated coupling means and attachment means during factory production. This preliminary preparation of connection mechanisms eliminates the need for complex on-site assembly operations and reduces installation time.
3Strength
If metal ramps are deployed, then load-bearing capacity is achieved, but noise generation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp body is constructed from plastic material with metal reinforcement elements, combining the structural strength needed for load-bearing capacity with the noise-dampening properties of plastic. This composite construction eliminates the noise generation issue associated with solid metal ramps.
Solution Approach 2:
Metal reinforcement elements are strategically positioned at specific locations within the ramp structure where additional strength is needed, rather than using solid metal throughout. This allows the ramp to achieve necessary load-bearing capacity while minimizing noise-generating metal surfaces.
4Adaptability or versatility
If large metal ramps are stored and transported, then full functionality is maintained, but storage space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp is divided into multiple smaller units that can be compactly stored and transported separately. These units can be easily assembled on-site to create the full ramp structure, eliminating the need for large storage spaces while maintaining full functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular units are designed to nest within each other or be compactly arranged during storage and transport. This nesting capability significantly reduces the volume required for storage while allowing the units to be assembled into the full ramp configuration when needed.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular ramp is suitable for the passage of urban mobility vehicles and includes a structure with an inclined upper surface, which includes units arranged in a matrix in rows and columns, each of the units formed by an internally hollow monobloc with a polygonal floor plan and with an upper surface inclined with respect to the lower base, being made of an injectable plastic material, each of the units having coupling means configured to couple one unit to an adjacent unit, attachment means suitable for keeping the structure attached to the ground and drainage means configured for circulating a fluid between units, which consist of a plurality of slits made in the lower portion of the monobloc, the slits of the units being aligned with one another, such that they define multiple linear paths.