Operable Ramp Dynamics for Compact Space Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for providing access to buildings with steps at the entrance, such as fixed ramps, occupy significant space and detract from aesthetic appeal, while fold-out ramps require large deployment areas.
Innovation Solution
An operable ramp system that can be moved between a stowed and deployed position, utilizing a support element, inner and outer ramps, and a drive assembly to rotate and slide into place, forming a step or inclined transition between surfaces, minimizing space usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fixed ramp is installed to provide access to a building with steps, then accessibility for physically challenged people is improved, but the space occupied by the ramp increases and aesthetic quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp is designed to be movable between a deployed position (providing accessibility) and a stowed position (minimizing space occupation). The ramp can be rotated about a pivot axis to transition between these positions, transforming a static obstacle into a dynamic solution that adapts to different operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The ramp system is divided into separable components including the ramp surface, support structure, and mounting mechanism. This segmentation allows the ramp to be independently deployed only when needed, rather than requiring continuous presence of the entire ramp structure.
2Ease of operation
If a fixed ramp is installed to provide access to a building with steps, then accessibility for physically challenged people is improved, but the aesthetic quality of the building deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp transitions from a visible permanent structure to a concealed temporary structure. When stowed, the ramp can be positioned to align with the building facade or hidden within a recess, maintaining aesthetic quality while preserving accessibility functionality when deployed.
3Area of stationary object
If a fold-out ramp is used to minimize space, then space occupation is reduced, but the deployment area required increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of folding the ramp horizontally (requiring lateral deployment space), the ramp is designed to rotate vertically about a pivot axis. This dimensional change allows the ramp to deploy upward and outward in a compact arc, minimizing the horizontal footprint required for deployment while still providing adequate ramp surface 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 system effectively provides access while maintaining a compact stowed position, reducing space requirements and preserving aesthetic integrity, and can be easily deployed to form a smooth transition between indoor and outdoor levels.
Implementation Method 1
A drive assembly selectively rotates the inner ramp relative to the outer ramp such that rotation of the inner ramp in a first direction moves the second axis from a raised position to a lowered position
Implementation Method 2
The outer ramp has a first cam follower that engages a slot formed in the support element
Implementation Method 3
The operable ramp forms a step in the stowed position, and the outer ramp and the inner ramp cooperate to form an inclined transition between a first surface and a second surface when the operable ramp is in the deployed position
Data Source
AI summary
An operable ramp is moveable between a stowed position and a deployed position. The operable ramp includes a support element and an inner ramp rotatable at a first end about a first axis. The operable ramp further includes an outer ramp rotatably coupled to a second end of the inner ramp about a second axis. The outer ramp has a first cam follower that engages a slot formed in the support element. A drive assembly selectively rotates the inner ramp relative to the outer ramp, such that rotation of the inner ramp in a first direction moves the second axis from a raised position to a lowered position. The operable ramp forms a step in the stowed position, and the outer ramp and the inner ramp form an inclined transition between a first surface and a second surface when the operable ramp is in the deployed position.