Patent ID: 11613197

Abstract:
A folding trailer ramp suitable for heavy machinery has powered full extension and soft ground contact. A prime mover such as an air bag and actuator assembly rotates one link of a quadrilateral linkage. When deploying the folding ramp, the quadrilateral linkage fully extends a ramp tip from a main ramp segment before the ramp tip touches down onto the ground. The ramp tip locks into a stable position when fully extended. A push rod that forms a second link of the quadrilateral linkage is in some embodiments adjustable in length, and in further embodiments includes a spring pack that only changes length after the ramp tip is fully extended and locked into a stable position. A pivot arm that forms another link may terminate at an anti-friction roller that presses against and thereby locks the ramp tip. A roller channel may also partially encompass and protect the anti-friction roller.