Stowable Livestock Ramp With Pivot Side Panels
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional livestock ramp systems are cumbersome, difficult to use, and pose safety risks during loading and unloading, especially in areas without access to a loading chute, as they are often bulky and require docking with a chute.
Innovation Solution
A stowable ramp system integrated with pivotally connected side panels that form a loading chute when deployed and stow compactly against the livestock transport unit, allowing for easy deployment and retraction, with features like rollers for ramp movement and spring-biased locks for secure positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional ramp systems are used, then livestock can be loaded and unloaded, but the systems are cumbersome and difficult to use
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp system is divided into multiple sections including a storable ramp, side panels, and locking mechanisms that can be independently deployed and secured. This segmentation allows the system to be more manageable and easier to operate while maintaining structural integrity during livestock loading and unloading operations
Solution Approach 2:
The ramp system incorporates movable and adjustable components that can be dynamically configured during operation. The side panels can be positioned and locked at different angles, and the ramp can be adjusted to various positions, making the system adaptable to different operational needs and easier to use in various scenarios
2Reliability
If conventional ramp systems are used, then livestock loading and unloading can be performed, but safety risks arise during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates preliminary safety measures through spring-biased locking mechanisms that automatically engage to secure the ramp and side panels in position before livestock loading begins. This preliminary locking action prevents accidental movement during operation, eliminating safety risks before they can manifest
Solution Approach 2:
The design includes inherent safety features such as interlocked components and guided movement paths that cushion against improper operation or accidental releases. The spring-biased locks provide a safety margin by requiring deliberate action to release, preventing unintended ramp movement that could harm livestock or operators
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional ramp systems are used, then livestock can be loaded and unloaded, but the systems are bulky and require docking with a chute
Solution Approach 1:
The side panels and ramp components are designed to nest within each other when not in use, with the side panels folding parallel to the ramp structure. This nesting arrangement dramatically reduces the volume occupied by the system during transport and storage, eliminating the need for bulky configurations and external docking chutes
Solution Approach 2:
The ramp system is designed as a self-contained unit that can be deployed in various locations without requiring docking with external chutes. The integrated side panels and locking mechanisms enable the system to function independently in multiple settings, enhancing versatility while maintaining a compact form factor
4Reliability
If the ramp and side panels are deployed to form a loading chute, then livestock can be safely loaded and unloaded, but the system occupies significant space during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The side panels are designed to fold parallel to the ramp structure rather than extending perpendicular to it. This dimensional change in the folding pattern allows the system to maintain structural integrity for safe livestock handling while occupying less lateral space during both deployed and stowed configurations
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 system provides a safe, efficient, and compact method for loading and unloading livestock, enabling use in various locations without a docking station, enhancing operational safety and flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
A spring-biased pin lock to lock and unlock the first part and the second part to each other
Implementation Method 2
The ramp comprises rollers or wheels that move the ramp along the track
Implementation Method 3
side panels that are pivotally connected to the walls of the livestock transport
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus has: a livestock transport having a floor, walls, ground engaging members, and an access door opening; a ramp; and side panels that are pivotally connected to the walls of the livestock transport, in which the ramp and the side panels are configured to move between: a deployed position where the ramp extends from the access door opening and the side panels cooperate with the ramp to form a livestock loading chute; and a transport position where the ramp is stowed and the side panels are swung about to lie against the walls of the livestock transport. A kit has the ramp and side panels of the apparatus. A method of using the apparatus involves moving the ramp and side panels between the deployed position and the transport position to load, unload, and transport, respectively, livestock.