Operable Ramp Cam Mechanism Space Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ramps that provide access to buildings with steps are either too bulky, taking up significant space, or detract from the aesthetic appeal, and there is a need for a space-efficient solution that can deploy and stow compactly.
Innovation Solution
An operable ramp that can move between a stowed, neutral, and deployed position, utilizing a rotatable ramp panel and support system with a cam follower mechanism, driven by a motor assembly, allowing for compact deployment and secure stowage, and includes a closeout assembly to maintain aesthetic integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fixed ramp is installed to provide accessible entry, then accessibility is improved, but space consumption increases and aesthetic quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp is designed as a movable structure that can transition between deployed and stowed positions. The ramp panel rotates about a first axis, and the support rotates in both directions about a second axis, transforming the ramp from a static space-consuming structure to a dynamic mechanism that occupies minimal space when not in use, while providing full accessibility when deployed
Solution Approach 2:
The ramp mechanism employs a nested configuration where the ramp panel and support structure can be folded into a compact arrangement. When stowed, the ramp panel and support rotate to nest within a small footprint area, effectively hiding the ramp mechanism within the building envelope or adjacent space, thus minimizing the area occupied by the stationary object
2Ease of operation
If a fixed ramp is installed to provide accessible entry, then accessibility is improved, but aesthetic quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The movable ramp mechanism allows the structure to be hidden when not in use, preserving the building's aesthetic appearance. The closeout assembly can be positioned to conceal the ramp mechanism, and the rotatable components allow the ramp to be stored in a manner that maintains the building's architectural integrity while providing accessibility when needed
3Area of stationary object
If a fold out ramp is used to minimize space, then space consumption is reduced, but deployment area requirement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp mechanism is divided into segmented components including the ramp panel, support, and closeout assembly that can independently rotate and fold. This segmentation allows the ramp to deploy through a controlled sequence of rotations about different axes, reducing the overall deployment area required compared to traditional fold-out ramps that require large clearance zones
Solution Approach 2:
The ramp utilizes multi-axis rotation where the ramp panel rotates about a first axis and the support rotates about a second axis. This dimensional approach allows the ramp to fold into three-dimensional configurations that minimize the two-dimensional deployment footprint, effectively using vertical and lateral space more efficiently to reduce the required deployment area
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 operable ramp effectively provides accessible transitions between different elevations while minimizing space usage and maintaining the building's aesthetic appearance, ensuring compliance with accessibility standards.
Implementation Method 1
A cam follower is coupled to the support and supportingly engages a second end of the ramp panel. Rotation of the support moves the cam follower along an arcuate path.
Implementation Method 2
the weight of the ramp biases the support in the second direction when the operable ramp is between the stowed position and the neutral position
Data Source
AI summary
An operable ramp is moveable between a stowed position, a neutral position, and a deployed position. The operable ramp includes a ramp panel rotatably coupled at a first end about a first axis and a support that is rotatable in a first direction and a second direction about a second axis. A cam follower is coupled to the support and supportingly engages a second end of the ramp panel. Rotation of the support moves the cam follower along an arcuate path. The weight of the ramp panel biases the support in the second direction when the operable ramp is between the stowed position and the neutral position. A drive assembly selectively rotates the support in the first and second direction, and a stop limits rotation of the support in the second direction when the operable ramp is in the stowed position.