Patent ID: 9050229
Filing Date: 2015-06-09
Classification: A61G,B60P

Abstract:
1. A method of deploying a ramp assembly to provide a transition surface between a vehicle floor and an alighting surface, the ramp assembly being moveable between a stowed position, a first deployed position, and a second deployed position, the ramp assembly having a ramp portion coupled for rotational movement about a first end of the ramp portion and a panel having a first end and a second end, the panel being rotatable about the first end of the panel, the method comprising the steps of: (a) rotating the ramp portion from the stowed position until the ramp portion contacts the alighting surface, the ramp portion being disengaged from the panel during at least a part of the ramp portion rotation prior to the ramp portion contacting the alighting surface; (b) rotating the ramp portion until the ramp assembly reaches the first deployed position, wherein the ramp portion forms a predetermined angle with the panel in the first deployed position, the first deployed position being between the stowed position and the second deployed position; and (c) selectively raising the first end of the ramp portion to the second deployed position, wherein raising the first end of the ramp portion engages the ramp portion with the panel to elevate the second end of the panel.