Ramp Siderail Linkage for Flush Vehicle-Floor Deployment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Mass-produced passenger vehicles lack effective solutions for accommodating physically limited passengers, particularly in ensuring the seamless deployment and stowage of ramps without compromising vehicle space.

Innovation Solution

A ramp assembly with a frame, drive assembly, and ramp linkage system that includes a pivotally coupled first and second link, where a wheel adjusts the ramp's position from a lowered to an inclined configuration, and a siderail mechanism that raises and lowers with the ramp's movement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a ramp is stored below the conventional vehicle floor and deploys to accommodate entry and exit, then accessibility for physically limited passengers is improved, but the ramp may not be flush with the vehicle floor during deployment and stowage

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccessibility for physically limited passengersVSAvoidflush alignment of ramp with vehicle floor

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The ramp assembly uses a dynamic deployment mechanism with a ramp linkage including a first link and second link that pivot relative to each other. This allows the ramp to transition smoothly between stored and deployed positions, maintaining flush alignment with the vehicle floor throughout the movement sequence rather than relying on precise static positioning.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The mechanism performs preliminary actions by first extending the ramp subassembly longitudinally from the vehicle floor before raising it to the inclined position. This two-stage deployment ensures the ramp is properly positioned and aligned with the floor before the incline is engaged, preventing misalignment issues.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Ease of operation

If a ramp is deployed from below the vehicle floor, then ingress and egress for wheelchair passengers is enabled, but vehicle space is compromised during stowage

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveingress and egress for wheelchair passengersVSAvoidvehicle space

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The ramp subassembly is nested within the vehicle floor structure when in the stored position. The frame and ramp components are contained within the vehicle's existing spatial envelope, minimizing the volume occupied during stowage while still providing full ramp functionality when deployed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The ramp subassembly is designed to be slidable along the longitudinal axis of the vehicle, allowing it to dynamically adjust its position. This enables the ramp to be compact during stowage and extend outward when needed, optimizing space utilization throughout the operational cycle.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If a ramp mechanism is added to mass-produced passenger vehicles, then accommodation for physically limited passengers is achieved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccommodation for physically limited passengersVSAvoidramp mechanism complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The ramp assembly is integrated with the vehicle's existing floor structure and frame. The frame includes a drive assembly that combines with the vehicle's mechanical systems, reducing the need for separate, complex control systems and simplifying the overall device architecture.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The ramp system is divided into modular components including a frame, ramp subassembly, and ramp linkage. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall mechanism by breaking down the complex function into manageable, interrelated parts.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

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

Enables smooth ingress and egress for wheelchair passengers by ensuring the ramp is flush with the vehicle floor during deployment and stowage, maintaining vehicle space efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

A ramp linkage includes a first link pivotally coupled to a second link, with the first link being pivotally coupled to the ramp subassembly. A wheel is coupled to the second link, wherein rotation of the wheel adjusts a position of the ramp linkage to move the ramp from a lowered position to an inclined position.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical Advantage: Mechanical Advantage

Data Source

PatentUS12403052B2Ramp siderail deployment apparatus and method

Publication Date: 2025.09.02 BRAUN CORP

AI summary

A ramp assembly to accommodate a wheel-chaired passenger to enter or to exit a passenger vehicle. The ramp assembly includes a frame having a drive assembly and a ramp subassembly slidably coupled to the frame. The ramp subassembly includes a ramp and a side rail extending along a side of the ramp. A ramp linkage is pivotally coupled to the ramp subassembly. A wheel is coupled to the ramp linkage, wherein rotation of the wheel adjusts a position of the ramp linkage to move the ramp from a lowered position to an inclined position. The ramp subassembly further includes a rail bracket, pivotally connected to the ramp linkage, and a slide bar, located adjacent to the rail bracket. The slide bar is configured to slide along the rail bracket, wherein sliding movement of the slide bar raises and lowers the side rail.