Modular Ramp System with Releasable Connectors
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ramp systems for extreme sports are limited in configuration and unable to withstand the extreme forces generated by skateboards, in-line skates, scooters, and bicycles while providing smooth transitions, and lack versatility in directional use.
Innovation Solution
A modular ramp system comprising single-piece ramp components with connecting portions and releasable connectors that allow for various configurations, enabling easy assembly and disassembly, and providing smooth surfaces for users to travel on.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a ramp system uses a single fixed configuration, then the structure is simple, but the versatility and adaptability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp system is divided into multiple modular components including ramp sections, connectors, and base units that can be independently assembled and configured. Each component has standardized connection interfaces that allow flexible arrangement into various ramp configurations while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The connectors are designed with universal coupling mechanisms that can join different ramp sections in multiple orientations and configurations. The same connector type serves multiple functions across different assembly scenarios, enabling the system to adapt to various user needs without requiring specialized components for each configuration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the ramp system uses multiple modular components with connectors, then the configuration versatility is improved, but the reliability and strength under extreme forces may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The connector design merges multiple functions into a single integrated component: structural joining, force distribution, and alignment guidance are all incorporated into one connector unit. This consolidation ensures that the connection mechanism maintains high reliability while enabling modular flexibility, as the integrated design eliminates weak points that might arise from multiple separate connection elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The ramp components and connectors utilize composite material construction combining high-strength materials with appropriate structural geometries. The connectors are designed with reinforced connection zones that distribute extreme forces across multiple attachment points, ensuring that the modular joints can withstand the same extreme forces as monolithic ramp structures.
3Ease of manufacture
If the ramp components are made from single piece material, then the manufacturing simplicity is improved, but the ease of assembly and configuration flexibility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
While each individual ramp component is manufactured as a single-piece element for manufacturing simplicity, the overall system is segmented into multiple such components that connect via standardized interfaces. This approach maintains the manufacturing advantages of single-piece construction while achieving the operational benefits of modular assembly through the segmentation of the complete ramp structure into joinable units.
4Strength
If the ramp system is designed for extreme sports forces, then the strength and durability are improved, but the smoothness of segment transitions may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The connector design implements local quality by creating specialized connection zones with reinforced structures to handle extreme forces, while the visible ramp surfaces maintain smooth, continuous profiles for user comfort. The strength-enhancing features are localized to the hidden connection regions, allowing the user-facing surfaces to prioritize smoothness without compromising overall structural strength.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular ramp system includes a ramp component and a connector releasably joined to the ramp component. The ramp component has first and second inclined surfaces and a connecting portion positioned between the first and second inclined surfaces. The connector has a bottom side formed with a first and second coupling section connectable to the connecting portion. The connector is positionable in a first position in which one of the first and second coupling sections is releasably joined to the connecting portion of the ramp component and the other of the first and second coupling sections is adapted to releasably couple to a ramp or an external structure, and a second position in which the first and second coupling sections are releasably joined to connecting portion of the ramp component.