Vehicle Leveler with Segmented Hydraulic Ramps and Safety Walkway
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle levelers have limited adjustability and fail to accommodate various vehicle types, leading to unsafe cargo loading and unloading, and lack adequate safety features for operators.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle leveler design with highly adjustable ramp surfaces and the ability to elevate both rear and front axles, along with an adjacent elevated walkway for enhanced safety, utilizing a combination of unitary structures, hydraulic lifts, and metal grating for traction and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional single-ramp leveler design is used, then the structure is simple, but the adjustability is limited and cannot accommodate various vehicle types
Solution Approach 1:
The leveler is divided into multiple independent ramp sections (first ramp section, second ramp section, third ramp section) that can be adjusted separately. Each section has its own hydraulic cylinder and can be positioned at different angles, allowing the leveler to accommodate various vehicle types and heights while maintaining structural manageability through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The leveler employs hydraulic cylinders that can dynamically adjust the angle and position of each ramp section independently. This dynamic adjustability allows the system to adapt to different vehicle configurations, heights, and types, transforming a static structure into a flexible, multi-position platform.
2Reliability
If the leveler elevates only the rear axle, then the structure is simpler, but the internal floor slope cannot be minimized for safe cargo handling
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting function is segmented across multiple hydraulic cylinders positioned at different locations (rear hydraulic cylinder for rear axle elevation, front hydraulic cylinder for front axle elevation). This segmentation allows independent control of different vehicle axles, enabling the minimization of internal floor slope for safe cargo handling while maintaining structural organization.
Solution Approach 2:
The leveler system is designed to perform multiple functions: elevating the rear axle, elevating the front axle, and adjusting ramp angles. This multi-functionality allows the same structural system to address various loading scenarios and vehicle configurations, improving cargo safety across different operational contexts.
3Reliability
If no walkway is provided, then the structure is simpler, but operator safety during loading and unloading is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
A walkway is introduced as an intermediary structure between the ground and the elevated platform. This walkway provides a safe, level surface for operators to access the loading area without directly stepping onto the ramp or elevated sections, thereby improving operator safety while adding a distinct structural element.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a single flat ramp surface is used, then the structure is simpler, but it cannot accommodate different vehicle heights and types
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp structure is segmented into multiple adjustable sections, each capable of independent angle adjustment. This segmentation allows the ramp to be configured in various angles and positions to accommodate different vehicle heights, types, and loading requirements, transforming a single flat surface into a multi-configurable structure.
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 design minimizes the slope of the internal vehicle floor, ensuring safer cargo handling and providing a secure walkway for operators, accommodating a wide range of vehicle sizes and types while ensuring safe loading and unloading operations.
Implementation Method 1
a support assembly having hydraulic cylinders
Implementation Method 2
metal grating for traction and safety
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle leveler includes a first portion which has a leading edge and a trailing edge; the trailing edge is disposed further from the driveway than the leading edge. The vehicle leveler also includes a second portion which has a leading edge and a trailing edge; the leading edge of the second portion is attached to the trailing edge of the first portion and the leading edge of the second portion is disposed further from the driveway than the trailing edge of the second portion. The second portion also includes an extension portion. The vehicle leveler also includes opposing side portions which extend the length of and contact the second portion and extension portion, the opposing side portions have a top surface which forms a walkway. A freestanding unitary vehicle wheel guide with a walkway is adjacent to the opposing side portions.