Patent ID: 7237294
Filing Date: 2007-07-03
Classification: B65G

Abstract:
1. A tri-folding ramp comprises: a loading member comprising a collapsed configuration and an extended configuration; a support bracket on the loading member for supporting an end of the loading member on a surface; said loading member further comprises a first end section, a second end section, a middle section and a plurality of hinges; wherein said first end section is pivotally attached to said middle section by at least one of said plurality of hinges, and said second end section is attached to the middle section by at least one of said plurality of hinges; said middle section comprising a pair of stiles and at least one transverse member extending between the stiles; the first end section comprising a pair of stiles and at least one transverse member extending between the stiles; the second end section comprising a pair of stiles and at least one transverse member extending between the stiles; each of said hinges comprising a pivot point; each of said first end section, said second end section and said middle section having a top surface; and the pivot point of said at least one hinge attaching the first end section and the middle section is offset from said stiles and said transverse members of said first end section and said middle section, wherein said pivot point is positioned a distance from lower edges of the stiles of each of said sections in a direction directly opposite the top surface of the loading member and is disposed on a side of said loading member opposite the top surface; and the pivot point of said at least one hinge attaching the second end section and the middle section is offset from said stiles and transverse members of said second end section and said middle section, wherein said pivot point is positioned a distance from lower edges of the stiles of each of said sections in a direction directly opposite the top surface of the loading member and is disposed on a side of said loading member opposite the top surface.