Segmented Aluminum Ramp System for Military Cargo Aircraft
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ramp systems for loading military cargo airplanes, such as the C-130, C-17, and C-5, lack efficient and lightweight solutions that comply with ATTLA regulations, particularly in preventing metal-to-metal contact and ensuring adequate weight distribution to support heavy loads.
Innovation Solution
A ramp system comprising lightweight aluminum components, including lead ramps, ramp pads, and adjustable ramp stands with non-metal pads to prevent contact, and wedges for efficient loading, designed to distribute weight effectively and meet the 50 psi requirement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a traditional heavy ramp system is used, then the ramp can support heavy loads, but the ramp system becomes too heavy and difficult to maneuver
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp system is divided into multiple separate ramp sections that can be individually handled and positioned. Each section is lighter and can be maneuvered separately, yet when assembled they form a continuous surface capable of supporting heavy cargo airplane loads.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite construction combining aluminum extrusions with wooden decking or other materials. This creates a structure that maintains the strength needed for heavy load support while significantly reducing the overall weight compared to traditional solid metal or wood ramps.
2Strength
If metal components are used for durability, then the ramp is strong and long-lasting, but metal-to-metal contact occurs violating ATTLA regulations
Solution Approach 1:
Non-metallic pads or protective elements are introduced as intermediary components between metal structural elements and the airplane. These pads prevent direct metal-to-metal contact while allowing the metal framework to provide structural strength and durability.
Solution Approach 2:
The ramp combines metal structural components for strength with non-metallic surface materials (such as wood, rubber, or plastic) that contact the airplane. This composite approach maintains durability from the metal framework while eliminating harmful metal-to-metal contact through the non-metallic interface materials.
3Ease of manufacture
If a simple ramp design is used, then the ramp is easy to manufacture, but it cannot effectively distribute weight to meet the 50 psi requirement
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp is segmented into multiple sections with standardized aluminum extrusion frames. This modular design simplifies manufacturing of individual sections while the distributed structure of multiple sections working together provides effective weight distribution across the landing surface, meeting the 50 psi requirement.
Solution Approach 2:
The aluminum extrusions are designed with specific cross-sectional geometries and structural parameters that optimize both manufacturability and load distribution characteristics. By carefully selecting extrusion profiles and spacing, the system achieves adequate weight distribution without complex assembly procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
A ramp system for a C-130 cargo airplane preferably includes a lead ramp, a ramp pad, a plurality of ramps and a plurality of ramp stands. A second embodiment of a ramp system for a C-130 cargo airplane preferably includes a plurality of wedges, a plurality of ramp pads, the plurality of ramps and the plurality of ramp stands. A ramp system for a C-5 or C-17 cargo airplane preferably includes the plurality of wedges, the plurality of ramp pads, the plurality of ramps and one ramp stand.