Patent Description:
The present application relates to a passenger vehicle for transporting one or more passengers, and more particularly to a ramp assembly with side rails for accommodating ingress and egress of a physically limited passenger.

Automobile manufacturers do not currently mass-produce passenger motor vehicles specifically designed to transport passengers having physical limitations, either as a driver or as a non-driving passenger. Consequently, mass-produced passenger vehicles are modified, or retrofitted, by a number of aftermarket companies dedicated to supplying vehicles to physically limited passengers. Such vehicles can be modified by removing certain parts or structures within a vehicle and replacing those parts with parts specifically designed to accommodate the physically limited passenger. For example, in one configuration, a van or bus is retrofitted with a ramp to enable a physically limited individual using a wheelchair to enter and exit the vehicle without the assistance of another individual.

Other known products for retrofitting a vehicle, such as a van, bus, sport-utility vehicle, or motor coach, include wheel chair lifts, lift platforms, and lowered floor surfaces. In some instances, a floor of an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) vehicle is lowered or otherwise modified to accommodate entry and exit of the physically limited individual through a side door or entrance of the vehicle. Once inside the vehicle, an individual who uses the assisted entrance is located in a rear passenger compartment of the vehicle adjacent to or behind the side entrance.

<CIT>) describes a boarding aid for a motor vehicle, in particular a sliding step of a door entry of a passenger transportation vehicle, said boarding aid being capable of being moved from an idle position into a usage position and back in a direction, which runs parallel to the side edges, and encompassing a planar element, a front side, two side edges, and a rear side. The planar element, on its side edges, encompasses barriers, which can be moved from a first upright position, in which they extend upwards in relation to a stepping surface of the planar element, into a second lowered position and vice versa, wherein the movement of the barriers is effected by moving the planar element.

<CIT>) describes a retractable ramp system for a mobility vehicle. A ramp platform is driven by a reversible motor, associated drive pulley, and drive belt affixed to a ramp carriage assembly. A spring-loaded mechanical release assembly is used to engage the drive pulley to the motor and to disengage the drive pulley from the motor. A manual control assembly is used for manual deployment of the ramp when the drive pulley is disengaged from the motor. Ramp flap provides a transition between the ramp platform and a mobility vehicle. Ramp flap is supported by wheels which translate along the ramp platform. Linear bearing blocks attach to pivot arms of the carriage assembly, which are in turn pivotably attached to the ramp platform. Linear bearing blocks translate the ramp platform along guide shafts during deployment and stowage.

In a first embodiment of this disclosure, a ramp assembly for use to accommodate a wheel-chaired passenger to enter or exit a motorized vehicle includes a ramp body having a length defined along a longitudinal direction; a first side rail pivotably coupled to the ramp body along a first side; a second side rail pivotably coupled to the ramp body along a second side; a hinge plate pivotably coupled to the ramp body at a first end; a first cam arm coupled to a bottom surface of the ramp body, the first cam arm including a first cam wheel; and a second cam arm coupled to the bottom surface of the ramp body, the second cam arm including a second cam wheel; wherein, the first side rail and second side rail are pivotably moved between a folded position in which the side rails pivot inwardly and a raised position in which the side rails are oriented perpendicular to the ramp body; further wherein, the first cam arm operably pivots the first side rail between its folded and raised position, and the second cam arm operably pivots the second side rail between its folded and raised position.

In a second embodiment of the present disclosure, a ramp assembly for use to accommodate a wheel-chaired passenger to enter or exit a motorized vehicle, includes a ramp body; a first side rail pivotably coupled to the ramp body along a first side; a second side rail pivotably coupled to the ramp body along a second side; and a manual deployment device coupled to the ramp body, the manual deployment device comprising a coupler end for coupling to the ramp body, a flexible cable, an outer tube surrounding the cable, and a handle for maneuvering the ramp body; wherein, the first side rail and second side rail are pivotably moved between a folded position in which the side rails pivot inwardly and a raised position in which the side rails are oriented perpendicular to the ramp body.

In one example of this embodiment, the ramp assembly includes a first cam arm coupled to a bottom surface of the ramp body, the first cam arm including a first cam wheel; and a second cam arm coupled to the bottom surface of the ramp body, the second cam arm including a second cam wheel; wherein, the first cam arm operably pivots the first side rail between its folded and raised position, and the second cam arm operably pivots the second side rail between its folded and raised position.

In a further embodiment of the present disclosure, a motorized vehicle includes a chassis; a floor structure formed in the chassis, the floor structure defining an inner compartment; a ramp assembly movable between a stowed position in which the ramp assembly is disposed in the compartment and a deployed position, the ramp assembly comprising a ramp body, a first side rail pivotably coupled to the ramp body along a first side, a second side rail pivotably coupled to the ramp body along a second side, a hinge plate pivotably coupled to the ramp body at a first end, a first cam arm coupled to a bottom surface of the ramp body, the first cam arm including a first cam wheel, and a second cam arm coupled to the bottom surface of the ramp body, the second cam arm including a second cam wheel; wherein, the first side rail and second side rail are pivotably moved between a folded position in which the side rails pivot inwardly and a raised position in which the side rails are oriented perpendicular to the ramp body; further wherein, the first cam arm operably pivots the first side rail between its folded and raised position, and the second cam arm operably pivots the second side rail between its folded and raised position.

In another embodiment of this disclosure, a ramp assembly is provided for use to accommodate a wheel-chaired passenger to enter or exit a motorized vehicle. The ramp assembly includes a ramp body having a length defined along a longitudinal direction, the ramp body including a first side, a second side, a first end and a second end; a first side rail pivotably coupled to the ramp body along the first side; a second side rail pivotably coupled to the ramp body along the second side; a hinge plate pivotably coupled to the ramp body at the first end; a first arm coupled to a bottom surface of the ramp body, the first arm including a first roller wheel; and a second arm coupled to the bottom surface of the ramp body, the second arm including a second roller wheel; wherein, the first side rail and second side rail are pivotably moved between a folded position in which the first and second side rails pivot inwardly and a raised position in which the side rails are oriented perpendicular to the ramp body; wherein, the first arm operably pivots the first side rail between its folded and raised position, and the second arm operably pivots the second side rail between its folded and raised position; further wherein, the ramp body moves between a stowed position and a deployed position, the first and second side rails being in their folded position when the ramp is in its stowed position and in their raised position when the ramp is in its deployed position.

In one example of this embodiment, the ramp assembly may include a carriage assembly coupled to the hinge plate; and a track assembly including a guide track defining a longitudinal channel along which the carriage assembly moves as the ramp is moved between its stowed and deployed positions. In a second example, the track assembly comprises a guide assembly at one end of the guide track and a stopper assembly at an opposite end thereof. In a third example, the stopper assembly includes an upper member; a lower member disposed within the channel of the guide track; and a stop member located between the upper member and the lower member; wherein, the upper member, lower member, and stop member are coupled to one another and the guide track. In a fourth example, the upper member comprises a type of material different from the lower member and stop member.

In a fifth example, the guide assembly may include a base plate configured to being coupled to a floor of the vehicle; a guide member having a tapered edge and being coupled to the base plate; a roller assembly coupled to the base plate and comprising a roller configured to rotate about a rotation axis, the rotation axis being substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction; and a centering block coupled to the base plate; wherein, as the ramp body moves between the stowed position and deployed positions, at least one of the first and second roller wheel engages the tapered edge of the guide member to induce pivotal movement of the corresponding first or second side rail between their folded and raised positions. In a sixth example, the ramp assembly may include a second guide member having a tapered edge and being coupled to the base plate at a side opposite the first guide member; wherein, the other of the first and second roller wheel engages the tapered edge of the second guide member to induce pivotal movement of the corresponding first or second side rail between their folded and raised positions.

In a seventh example, the centering block comprises a base portion and a raised portion, the base portion being coupled to the base plate. In an eighth example, the carriage assembly may include a carriage body; a wheel; a mounting arm for coupling the wheel to the carriage body; and one or more track wheels and a center wheel; wherein, as the carriage assembly moves along the guide track, the one or more track wheels and center wheel move within the longitudinal channel. In a ninth example, the ramp body comprises an opening formed therein for receiving a manual deployment device, the opening being formed near the second end and in close proximity to the first or second side rail. In a tenth example, at least one stiffener rib is coupled to the bottom surface of the ramp body, the at least one stiffener rib extending in the longitudinal direction from the first end to the second end of the ramp body.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, a ramp assembly is provided for use to accommodate a wheel-chaired passenger to enter or exit a motorized vehicle. The ramp assembly includes a ramp body configured to be movable between a stowed position and a deployed position; a first side rail pivotably coupled to the ramp body along a first side; a second side rail pivotably coupled to the ramp body along a second side; and a manual deployment device coupled to the ramp body, the manual deployment device comprising a coupler end for coupling to the ramp body, a flexible cable, an outer tube surrounding the cable, and a handle for maneuvering the ramp body; wherein, as the ramp body is moved between its stowed position and deployed position, the first side rail and second side rail are pivotably moved between a folded position in which the side rails pivot inwardly and a raised position in which the side rails are oriented perpendicular to the ramp body.

In one example of this embodiment, a first arm is coupled to a bottom surface of the ramp body, the first arm including a first wheel; and a second arm coupled to the bottom surface of the ramp body, the second arm including a second wheel; wherein, the first arm operably pivots the first side rail between its folded and raised position, and the second arm operably pivots the second side rail between its folded and raised position. In a second example, a carriage assembly is coupled to the ramp body; and a track assembly including a longitudinal channel along which the carriage assembly moves as the ramp is moved between its stowed and deployed positions. In a third example, the track assembly comprises a guide assembly at one end of the channel and a stopper assembly at an opposite end thereof. In a fourth example, the first arm is coupled to the first side rail to induce movement of the first side rail between its folded and raised positions as the first wheel engages the guide assembly; and the second arm is coupled to the second side rail to induce movement of the second side rail between its folded and raised positions as the second wheel engages the guide assembly.

In yet a further embodiment of the present disclosure, a motorized vehicle includes a chassis; a floor structure formed in the chassis, the floor structure defining an inner compartment; a ramp assembly movable between a stowed position in which the ramp assembly is located in the compartment and a deployed position, the ramp assembly comprising a ramp body, a first side rail pivotably coupled to the ramp body along a first side, a second side rail pivotably coupled to the ramp body along a second side, a hinge plate pivotably coupled to the ramp body, a first arm coupled to a bottom surface of the ramp body, the first arm including a first roller wheel, and a second arm coupled to the bottom surface of the ramp body, the second arm including a second roller wheel; wherein, the first side rail and second side rail are pivotably moved between a folded position in which the side rails pivot inwardly, and a raised position in which the side rails are oriented perpendicular to the ramp body; further wherein, the first arm operably pivots the first side rail between its folded and raised position, and the second arm operably pivots the second side rail between its folded and raised position.

In one example of this embodiment, the ramp assembly includes a carriage assembly coupled to the hinge plate; and a track assembly including a guide track defining a longitudinal channel along which the carriage assembly moves as the ramp is moved between its stowed and deployed positions. In another example, a guide assembly is coupled to the track assembly, the guide assembly including a base plate configured to being coupled to the floor structure; a guide member having a tapered edge and being coupled to the base plate; a roller assembly coupled to the base plate and comprising a roller configured to rotate about a rotation axis, the rotation axis being substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction; and a centering block coupled to the base plate; wherein, as the ramp body moves between the stowed position and deployed positions, at least one of the first and second roller wheel engages the tapered edge of the guide member to induce pivotal movement of the corresponding first or second side rail between their folded and raised positions.

In a further example, the carriage assembly may include a carriage body; a wheel; a mounting arm for coupling the wheel to the carriage body; and one or more track wheels and a center wheel; wherein, as the carriage assembly moves along the guide track, the one or more track wheels and center wheel move within the longitudinal channel.

<FIG> illustrates a vehicle <NUM>, commonly identified as a passenger van or bus, available from any number of United States and foreign manufacturers. The vehicle may be a tour bus, a double-decker bus, or any other type of vehicle. The principles and teachings of the present disclosure may be used for any type of vehicle.

In the illustrated embodiment of <FIG>, the vehicle <NUM> includes a unibody construction, but other vehicles having a frame on body construction, are also included in the present disclosure. Consequently, the use of vehicle herein includes all types and kinds of vehicles with a body on frame construction, a unibody construction, or other constructions. In addition, while the passenger van <NUM> is illustrated in <FIG>, the present disclosure is directed to all passenger vehicles carrying one or more passengers including, but not limited to, a bus, motor coach, sport-utility vehicle, truck, taxi, ambulance, or passenger car.

The vehicle <NUM> includes a frame or chassis <NUM> operatively coupled to front wheels <NUM> and rear wheels <NUM> that propel the vehicle <NUM> along a ground surface <NUM>. A first passenger side door <NUM> is located between the front wheels <NUM> and the rear wheels <NUM>, and provides access to a passenger for sitting in a front seat of the vehicle <NUM> adjacent to a driver.

The vehicle <NUM> includes a second passenger side door <NUM> coupled to the frame <NUM>. The side door <NUM> may be modified to slide along one or more tracks to increase the size of an opening <NUM> to an interior <NUM> of the vehicle <NUM>. The widened opening <NUM> may provide access, for example, to a passenger seated in a wheelchair to enter and exit the vehicle <NUM>. The opening <NUM> is defined on the sides thereof by an edge <NUM> of the door <NUM> or door frame of the vehicle <NUM> and the edge <NUM> of the rear passenger side door <NUM>. The vehicle <NUM> may be further modified to include a ramp assembly <NUM> which provides rolling access of a wheelchair from the ground surface <NUM> into the interior <NUM> of the vehicle <NUM>. The ramp assembly <NUM> is installed at the opening <NUM> near a floor <NUM> (or sub-floor) of the vehicle <NUM>, and is movable between the interior <NUM> of the vehicle <NUM>, where it is stored in some embodiments, and to the exterior for wheelchair access. As shown, an edge or end of the ramp assembly <NUM> may contact the ground surface <NUM> at one end of the ramp <NUM>, and the floor <NUM> at an opposite end thereof.

In some embodiments, the floor <NUM> of the vehicle <NUM> may be modified such that it is lowered to allow better ingress and egress of a wheel-chaired passenger along the ramp <NUM>. In some instances, the floor <NUM> may actually be lowered so that when deployed, the angle of the ramp <NUM> is less steep as it extends from the floor <NUM> to the ground <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the ramp assembly <NUM> may be removably coupled to the vehicle <NUM> such that in its deployed position, it is coupled to the floor <NUM> or a portion of the chassis <NUM> to allow for ingress and egress of the interior <NUM>. When the ramp <NUM> is no longer needed, the ramp <NUM> may be decoupled or removed from the vehicle <NUM> and stored therein, or stored at another location.

In <FIG>, a first embodiment of a ramp assembly <NUM> for use with a vehicle is shown which may be incorporated into a passenger vehicle such as a bus, motor coach, sport-utility vehicle, van or any other passenger vehicle. As shown, a portion of a vehicle chassis <NUM> and floor structure <NUM> of a vehicle similar to the one in <FIG> is provided. This floor structure <NUM> may be located at a side entry location of the vehicle such as the one shown in <FIG>, or it may be at a different location (e.g., a rear location of the vehicle).

The floor structure <NUM> may include a cover <NUM> as shown. The cover <NUM> may be part of a sub-floor of the actual vehicle floor. In any event, the cover <NUM> may span an entire width of the vehicle floor <NUM>, or it may only span a portion of the width. In other words, the cover <NUM> may extend from a first side <NUM> of the vehicle to a second side <NUM> thereof. The first side <NUM> may represent an exterior or entry/exit side of the vehicle that corresponds with the opening <NUM> of <FIG>. The second side <NUM> may represent an interior location of the vehicle, or it may represent a rear passenger door on the opposite side of the vehicle.

A transition plate <NUM> may be provided in the embodiment of <FIG>. The transition plate <NUM> provides a surface upon which a wheel-chaired passenger may roll over as it transitions from either a ramp assembly <NUM> or the vehicle floor (depending upon egress or ingress of the passenger). The transition plate <NUM> extends from an end of the cover <NUM> to an opening formed by the door frame of the vehicle. The transition plate <NUM> may be fastened or coupled to the floor structure <NUM> or vehicle chassis <NUM> in any known manner.

The cover <NUM> and transition plate <NUM> may form an upper portion of a compartment <NUM> defined in the vehicle floor structure <NUM> or chassis <NUM>, such that the ramp assembly <NUM> may be disposed within the compartment <NUM> in its stowed or retracted position. To maneuver the ramp assembly <NUM> from its stowed position, a manual deployment device, stick, or handle rod <NUM> may be provided. The deployment device <NUM> may include an elongated rod that is coupled to the ramp assembly <NUM>. The transition plate <NUM> may define a slot or trimmed portion <NUM> which allows the manual deployment device <NUM> to remain coupled to the ramp assembly <NUM> and oriented in a substantially perpendicular direction relative to the ramp assembly <NUM> and cover <NUM> in the stowed position of <FIG>.

The manual deployment device <NUM> is further shown in <FIG> and <FIG>. In <FIG>, for example, the manual deployment device <NUM> may include a first end at which a ball handle <NUM> is disposed and a second end at which a threaded end <NUM> is disposed. The threaded end <NUM> may include an elongated portion or stem with external threads for coupling to the ramp assembly <NUM> of <FIG>. In another embodiment, the coupling end <NUM> of the manual deployment device <NUM> may include a clip, latch, or other means for snapping, clicking, latching or otherwise coupling to the ramp assembly <NUM>. For instance, the connection between the ramp assembly <NUM> and manual deployment device <NUM> may be formed by a quick connect-disconnect mechanism known in the art. Alternatively, the connection may be formed by inserting the coupling end <NUM> of the device <NUM> into an opening <NUM> (see <FIG>) of the ramp assembly <NUM> and then turning or rotating the device <NUM> to releasably lock the manual deployment device <NUM> into place with respect to the ramp assembly <NUM>. Although not shown, the ramp assembly <NUM> may include a spring disposed in the opening <NUM> such that the coupling end <NUM> is pushed into the opening <NUM> to compress the spring and then either snaps into place (i.e., an outer groove on the coupling end being disposed within an internal groove of the ramp) or rotated to lock into place. While these aforementioned embodiments are presented to suggest various ways of releasably coupling the manual deployment device <NUM> to the ramp <NUM>, this is not intended to be a comprehensive list of examples. Other conventional ways of coupling the device <NUM> to the ramp assembly <NUM> may be incorporated.

Moreover, in at least one embodiment, the manual deployment device <NUM> may be fixedly attached to the ramp assembly <NUM> such that it is not removable. In this embodiment, the manual deployment device <NUM> may be able to fold downwardly to collapse into a stowed position. Alternatively, the device <NUM> may be telescopically collapsed in a stored position.

In <FIG> and <FIG>, the manual deployment device <NUM> may further include a second coupling end <NUM> which may be coupled to the ball handle <NUM> via any known means including crimping and/or adhesive. For example, the ball handle <NUM> may include a threaded opening for screwing onto external threads on the second coupling end <NUM>. Other coupling means may be provided for coupling the ball handle <NUM> to the second coupling end <NUM>.

The manual deployment device <NUM> may further include an elongated cable <NUM> over which a hollow tube <NUM> is disposed. The device <NUM> may also include a stem portion <NUM> that partially covers and is crimped, adhered, welded or otherwise coupled to the cable <NUM>. The cable <NUM> may have a degree of flexibility that allows the manual deployment device <NUM> to bend or flex as it is used by an operator to move the ramp assembly <NUM> between its stowed position (<FIG>) and its fully deployed position (<FIG>). The cable <NUM> also allows for the device <NUM> to be designed without a spring or biasing member, as is conventional in the art, and thus the manual deployment device <NUM> can be manufactured at a lower cost.

While the cable <NUM> allows for the manual deployment device <NUM> to have some amount of flexibility, it also has a degree of rigidity that returns or biases the device <NUM> to its rest position. In its rest position, the manual deployment device <NUM> may be disposed in a substantially perpendicular orientation relative to the ramp assembly <NUM>. This is shown, for example, in <FIG> and <FIG>.

Referring now to <FIG>, the floor structure <NUM> of <FIG> is again illustrated but with the cover <NUM> and transition plate <NUM> removed. As shown, the ramp assembly <NUM> comprises a substantially rectangularly-shaped ramp body <NUM> having a top surface upon which a wheel-chaired passenger may travel during ingress and egress of the vehicle. The body <NUM> may be defined longitudinally between a first end <NUM> and a second end <NUM>. In <FIG>, the ramp <NUM> is shown in its fully stowed position <NUM>. In this position, the first end <NUM> is disposed underneath the transition plate <NUM> and within the compartment <NUM> defined in the chassis <NUM> and floor structure <NUM>. In other words, the first end <NUM> does not extend past a vertical plane defined by an outermost edge of the transition plate <NUM>. This allows the ramp assembly <NUM> to be fully stowed in a position that does not interfere with or contact a door from moving between an open and closed position.

The ramp <NUM> of <FIG> is shown including a handle opening <NUM> to allow an operator to manipulate the ramp <NUM> as necessary. For instance, the ramp <NUM> may be designed with or without the manual deployment device <NUM>, and thus maneuvering the ramp <NUM> may be done via the handle opening <NUM>.

The ramp <NUM> is also shown having a pair of side rails. A first side rail <NUM> is configured to extend a majority of the length of the ramp <NUM>, and is pivotably coupled thereto. In <FIG>, the first side rail <NUM> is shown being hingedly coupled to the ramp body <NUM> via a first set of hinges <NUM>. Similarly, a second side rail <NUM> is disposed along the opposite side of the ramp body <NUM> and it too is pivotably coupled thereto. The second side rail <NUM> may be coupled via a second set of hinges <NUM>. Other means may be provided to permit the pivotal movement of the side rails relative to the ramp body <NUM>.

The side rails <NUM>, <NUM> are disposed in a downward or folded position in the fully stowed position of <FIG>. Moreover, as the ramp <NUM> is moved longitudinally from the fully stowed position to a partially stowed position <NUM> of <FIG>, the pair of side rails remain in their folded position.

In <FIG>, the ramp <NUM> is shown in its partially stowed position. Here, the cover <NUM> and transition plate <NUM>, however, are removed so that a ramp guide assembly <NUM> is shown. The ramp guide assembly <NUM> may include a longitudinal track that extends a distance to permit the ramp <NUM> to move from its fully stowed position to its fully deployed position. In <FIG>, the ramp guide assembly <NUM> is shown with the ramp <NUM> removed. As shown, the ramp guide assembly <NUM> includes a track or guide that defines a longitudinal groove or slot <NUM>. A first spacer plate <NUM> and a second spacer plate <NUM> may flank either side of the ramp guide assembly <NUM>. Each spacer plate is spaced from the track and includes a top surface upon which a portion of the ramp <NUM> may contact. The spacer plates <NUM>, <NUM> are best shown in <FIG>.

Returning to <FIG>, the ramp <NUM> is shown including a hinge <NUM> extending transversely across a width of the ramp <NUM>. The hinge <NUM> allows the ramp <NUM> to pivot with respect to a ramp support plate <NUM> such that the ramp <NUM> may be disposed at an angle in its fully deployed position. This is best shown, for example, in <FIG> in which the ramp <NUM> pivots with respect to the hinge <NUM> so that the first end or edge <NUM> of the ramp <NUM> may contact the ground in the fully deployed position <NUM>. As also shown, the transition plate <NUM> may interface with the ramp <NUM> near the hinge <NUM> to provide a smooth transition of a wheel-chaired passenger between the vehicle floor and the ramp <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the ramp guide assembly <NUM> includes the aforementioned track <NUM> (<FIG> and <FIG>) that extends longitudinally between a first end <NUM> and a second end <NUM>. The ramp <NUM> may be in contact with the track <NUM> during its transition between the fully stowed position and fully deployed position <NUM>. This will be described below with reference to <FIG> and <FIG>.

In <FIG>, the ramp guide assembly <NUM> may also include a transverse plate <NUM> coupled to the vehicle floor structure <NUM> or chassis <NUM> at a location near or below the door of the vehicle. The plate <NUM> extends in a direction transverse to the length of the track <NUM>. The second end <NUM> of the track <NUM> may be coupled or simply contact an upper surface of the plate <NUM>, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>. The plate <NUM> may include a first roller assembly <NUM> and a second roller assembly <NUM>. Each roller assembly may be positioned adjacent or to the side of the track <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the first roller assembly <NUM> may include a first support roller <NUM> and a first centering roller <NUM>. Likewise, the second roller assembly <NUM> may include a second support roller <NUM> and a second centering roller <NUM>. The first and second support rollers may be formed by a wheel or caster that rotates about a horizontal axis, X-X. As such, the support rollers are axially aligned to rotate about the same axis. In other embodiments, however, the pair of support rollers may be aligned in parallel but not axially aligned. In another embodiment, the pair of support rollers may rotate about different axes that are neither axially aligned or aligned in parallel. Nevertheless, the pair of support rollers may engage an underside or bottom surface <NUM> of the ramp <NUM> to support the ramp <NUM> as it moves between its stowed and deployed positions.

The first centering roller <NUM> may be coupled to the plate <NUM> such that it rotates about a substantially vertical axis, Y-Y. In this manner, the first centering roller <NUM> rotates about an axis that is substantially perpendicular to the axis upon which the first support roller <NUM> rotates. Similarly, the second center roller <NUM> may be coupled to the plate <NUM> such that it rotates about another substantially vertical axis, Z-Z. As such, the second centering roller <NUM> rotates about an axis that is substantially perpendicular to the axis upon which the second support roller <NUM> rotates. Further, the first and second centering rollers may rotate about a pair of vertical axes that are not axially aligned, but may be aligned in parallel to one another. In any event, the pair of centering rollers assist with keeping the ramp <NUM> centered and aligned as it travels along the track <NUM> between its stowed and deployed positions.

At each end of the plate <NUM>, a first guide block <NUM> and a second guide block <NUM> may be provided. Each guide block may be coupled to the plate <NUM>. In <FIG>, the first guide block <NUM> may be coupled via one or more fasteners <NUM>. Similarly, the second guide block <NUM> may be coupled via one or more fasteners <NUM>. The perimeter or outer edges of each guide block may be formed by a first straight edge <NUM>, a second straight edge <NUM>, a third straight edge <NUM>, and a tapered edge. For instance, the first guide block <NUM> may include a first tapered edge <NUM> and the second guide block <NUM> may include a second tapered edge <NUM>. The tapered edges may be formed between the first straight edge <NUM> and the third straight edge <NUM>. The tapered edge may also be formed on the opposite side of the block from the first straight edge <NUM>. As shown, the first straight edge <NUM> is longer than the second straight edge <NUM>, which is longer than the third straight edge <NUM>. Due to the tapered edge, each guide block forms a substantially triangular shape. In each case, the first straight edge <NUM> faces away from the ramp <NUM>, and the third straight edge <NUM> and tapered edge faces toward the ramp <NUM>. The ramp <NUM> may therefore come into contact with the tapered edge and third straight edge <NUM>, as described below.

The tapered edge in each guide block may be tapered or angled at an acute angle, i.e., less than <NUM>° with respect to the first straight edge <NUM>. In one non-limiting example, the tapered edge may be angled at <NUM>° or less. In another example, the tapered edge may be angled at <NUM>° or less. In a third example, the tapered edge may be angled at <NUM>° or less. In a further example, the tapered edge may be angled at <NUM>° or less. The angle may depend upon the width of the ramp <NUM>, the width of the plate <NUM>, and the components of the ramp <NUM> that contact the tapered edge as will be describe below.

In <FIG>, the ramp <NUM> is shown by itself. Here, the ramp <NUM> is shown having its hinge plate <NUM> at one end and the pair of side rails extending along the sides thereof. The second side rail <NUM> may be a single piece of material, e.g., steel, plastic, aluminum, or other material used for constructing a ramp. The same may be true of the first side rail <NUM>. Each side rail may be formed by a substantially straight elongate portion <NUM>, a first angled portion <NUM>, and a second angled portion <NUM>. The first angled portion <NUM> is disposed nearest the hinge plate <NUM>, whereas the second angled portion <NUM> may be disposed nearest the handle opening <NUM>.

The elongate portion <NUM> may be designed to have a substantially uniform thickness and height, whereas each angled portion has a decreasing height moving away from the elongate portion <NUM>.

The second angled portion <NUM> of the first side rail <NUM> may include a defined gap or slot <NUM>. The defined gap or slot <NUM> is sized such that the side rail <NUM> does not contact or interfere with the manual deployment device <NUM> as it moves between its raised and folded positions. The ramp <NUM> may also include an opening <NUM> for receiving the coupling end <NUM> of the manual deployment device <NUM>. The opening <NUM> may be formed in the top surface of the ramp <NUM>, and the opening <NUM> may be threaded to receive corresponding threads of the coupling end <NUM>. As noted above, the opening <NUM> may include a groove, latch, clip, or other mechanism besides or in addition to threads for engaging with the coupling end <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the opening <NUM> may be formed in the ramp <NUM> in alignment with the gap or slot <NUM> defined in the first side rail <NUM>. Again, this alignment allows for the movement of the side rail between its folded position and raised position.

The first side rail <NUM> may also include an end portion <NUM> as shown in <FIG> that may be optionally removed. With the end portion <NUM>, the slot or gap <NUM> is provided. In the event of the first side rail <NUM> not having the end portion <NUM>, then the first side rail <NUM> may simply have a shorter length compared to the second side rail <NUM>, where the shorter length allows for the first side rail <NUM> to move freely between its folded and raised positions without contacting the manual deployment device <NUM>.

Turning now to <FIG>, the ramp <NUM> is shown from the front (<FIG>) and its bottom (<FIG>). As shown, the ramp <NUM> includes a bottom surface <NUM> that is opposite the top surface. Along the bottom surface <NUM>, the ramp <NUM> may include a first track member <NUM> and a second track member <NUM>. The first and second track members may extend longitudinally along the length of the ramp <NUM>, but each is spaced transversely from one another.

The ramp <NUM> may also include a first cam arm <NUM> and a second cam arm <NUM>. The first cam arm <NUM> is coupled to the bottom surface <NUM> of the ramp <NUM> via a bracket <NUM>. The second cam arm <NUM> is coupled to the bottom surface <NUM> of the ramp <NUM> via a bracket <NUM>. Both cam arms are coupled to the bottom surface <NUM> towards a rear end <NUM> of the ramp <NUM>. The rear end <NUM> of the ramp <NUM> corresponds to the end at which the hinge plate <NUM> is coupled, and is opposite a front end <NUM> of the ramp <NUM> which may contact the ground in the fully deployed position <NUM>.

At an end opposite the bracket <NUM>, the first cam arm <NUM> may include a first cam wheel <NUM>. Likewise, at an end opposite the bracket <NUM>, the second cam arm <NUM> may include a second cam wheel <NUM>. Each cam wheel may freely rotate about the cam arm. In other embodiments, the cam wheel may simply be a cam that does not rotate.

In <FIG>, the ramp <NUM> is further illustrated as including one or more springs <NUM>. The springs <NUM> work in conjunction with the pair of side rails, such that the springs <NUM> bias the side rails to their folded position. In the illustrated embodiments, the first side rail <NUM> may include three springs <NUM> and the second side rail <NUM> may include three springs <NUM>. The number of springs, however, may vary in other embodiments, and the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to any number of springs. During operation, however, the springs <NUM> on each side rail may be compressed as the pair of side rails move from their folded position to their raised position. Likewise, the springs <NUM> may be decompressed when the pair of side rails move from their raised position to their folded position. In the raised position, the pair of side rails may extend substantially perpendicular to the top surface of the ramp <NUM>, and offers security and guidance to the wheels of a wheelchair as it is rolled up or down the ramp <NUM>.

In the stowed position of <FIG> and <FIG>, the ramp <NUM> is disposed within the compartment <NUM> as described above. The first and second support rollers <NUM>, <NUM> may be in contact with the first track member <NUM> and second track member <NUM>, respectively. In addition, the first centering roller <NUM> and second centering roller <NUM> may contact the first and second track members, respectively, as well. The track members may include a groove through which either the support rollers or centering rollers are disposed. The centering rollers may keep the ramp <NUM> aligned as it moves between the stowed and deployed positions. Moreover, as the ramp <NUM> is moved between these two positions, the support rollers may roll along the track members and/or bottom surface <NUM> of the ramp <NUM>.

Further, and as illustrated in <FIG>, the pair of cam arms may be disposed in a substantially horizontal orientation. In particular, the pair of cam arms, or their respective cam wheel, may contact the spacer plates of the ramp guide assembly, as described above. The spacer plates keep or maintain the orientation of the cam arms as the ramp is moved to and from its stowed position.

When the ramp <NUM>, however, is moved from its stowed position to its fully deployed position, the cam wheels <NUM>, <NUM> may come into contact with the tapered edges of the respective guide blocks <NUM>, <NUM>. As the cam wheels <NUM>, <NUM> come into contact with the first guide block <NUM> and second guide block <NUM>, respectively, the cam arms are forced inwardly as shown in <FIG>. As such, the springs <NUM> are compressed, and the pair of side rails begin to raise from their folded positions. Once the pair of side rails reach their fully raised position, the ramp <NUM> may be in its fully deployed position <NUM>. In this position, the cam wheels <NUM>, <NUM> may be in engagement with the tapered edges or the third straight edge <NUM> of the respective guide blocks <NUM>, <NUM>.

With the ramp <NUM> in its deployed position <NUM>, a user may lift the ramp <NUM> via the handle opening <NUM> and/or manual deployment device <NUM>. As the ramp <NUM> is lifted from the ground, it is able to pivot with respect to the hinge plate <NUM>. Moreover, the ramp <NUM> may be slid or moved back into the compartment <NUM> to its stowed position. As the ramp <NUM> is moved back into the compartment <NUM>, the cam wheels <NUM>, <NUM> may engage the tapered edges <NUM>, <NUM> of the first and second guide blocks <NUM>, <NUM>, respectively. As the wheels roll along the tapered edges, the cam arms <NUM>, <NUM> may extend outward and the springs <NUM> decompress to urge the side rails <NUM>, <NUM> from the raised position to their folded position.

Referring to <FIG>, another embodiment of a ramp assembly <NUM> is shown. Here, the ramp assembly <NUM> is disposed in its deployed position where it is pulled out from a compartment defined by a portion of the vehicle chassis <NUM> and a cover <NUM>. As shown, a portion of the vehicle chassis and floor structure <NUM> of a vehicle similar to the one in <FIG> is provided. This chassis and floor structure <NUM> may be located at a side entry location of the vehicle such as the one shown in <FIG>, or it may be at a different location (e.g., a rear location of the vehicle).

As described above with respect to <FIG>, the chassis and floor structure <NUM> may include the cover <NUM> as shown. The cover <NUM> may be part of a sub-floor of the actual vehicle floor. In any event, the cover <NUM> may span an entire width of the vehicle floor <NUM>, or it may only span a portion of the width. In other words, the cover <NUM> may extend from a first side <NUM> of the vehicle to a second side <NUM> thereof. The first side <NUM> may represent an exterior or entry/exit side of the vehicle that corresponds with the opening <NUM> of <FIG>. The second side <NUM> may represent an interior location of the vehicle, or it may represent a rear passenger door on the opposite side of the vehicle.

A transition plate <NUM> may be provided in the embodiment of <FIG>. The transition plate <NUM> provides a surface upon which a wheel-chaired passenger may roll over as it transitions from either a ramp <NUM> or the vehicle floor (depending upon egress or ingress of the passenger). The transition plate <NUM> extends from an end of the cover <NUM> to an opening formed by the door frame of the vehicle. The transition plate <NUM> may be fastened or coupled to the vehicle chassis or floor structure <NUM> in any known manner.

The cover <NUM> and transition plate <NUM> may form an upper portion of a compartment defined in the vehicle floor structure or chassis <NUM>, such that the ramp <NUM> may be disposed within the compartment in its stowed or retracted position (not shown). To maneuver the ramp <NUM> from its stowed position, a manual deployment device, stick, or handle rod <NUM> may be provided. The deployment device <NUM> may include an elongated rod that is coupled to the ramp <NUM>. The deployment device <NUM> may be removably coupled to the ramp <NUM>, as will be described in further detail below.

The ramp <NUM> may also include a handle <NUM> formed by an opening in the ramp body. A user may grasp the handle <NUM> and pull the ramp <NUM> from its stowed position. The user may pull the ramp <NUM> and move it to its deployed position of <FIG>, or only so far until the deployment device <NUM> may be used to move the ramp to its deployed position. Thus, use of the deployment device <NUM> and handle <NUM> may be used independently of one another or together when maneuvering the ramp <NUM> between its stowed and deployed positions.

In at least one embodiment, the manual deployment device <NUM> may be fixedly attached to the ramp assembly <NUM> such that it is not removable. In this embodiment, the manual deployment device <NUM> may be able to fold downwardly to collapse into a stowed position. Alternatively, the device <NUM> may be telescopically collapsed in a stored position.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the ramp <NUM> may include a first side rail <NUM> and a second side rail <NUM>. The first and second side rails <NUM>, <NUM> may be pivotably coupled to the ramp <NUM> such that each pivots between a folded position and an unfolded position. Both side rails are shown in their unfolded positions in <FIG> and <FIG>.

The ramp <NUM> includes a ramp surface <NUM>, which as shown in <FIG>, is the uppermost surface upon which a wheelchair engages during ingress and egress. The handle <NUM> is disposed near a ramp end <NUM> and a hinge plate <NUM> is located at an opposite end thereof. The ramp surface <NUM> is defined along a plane. When the side rails are disposed in their unfolded position, the side rails are oriented substantially perpendicular to the ramp surface <NUM>. In this way, the side rails <NUM>, <NUM> protrude upwardly and help maintain the wheelchair on the ramp <NUM> as it moves therealong.

In <FIG>, each side rail includes a defined profile. Here, the side rail has a first tapered edge <NUM> and a second tapered edge <NUM>. A substantially straight edge <NUM> is defined between the first tapered edge <NUM> and the second tapered edge <NUM>, as shown. Moreover, the first and second side rails may be pivotably coupled to the ramp <NUM> via hinges <NUM>. The hinges <NUM> may extend the entire or substantially the entire length of each side rail. As such, the side rail pivots along its entire length between its folded and unfolded positions.

The ramp surface <NUM> may further define an opening <NUM> in which the deployment device <NUM> may be coupled to the ramp <NUM>. This is best shown in <FIG>. Further, the opening <NUM> is defined nearest the first side rail <NUM>. As such, it is shown in <FIG> that the first side rail <NUM> has a shorter overall length than the second side rail <NUM> in order to accommodate the deployment device <NUM>. Moreover, the first side rail <NUM> has a longer edge <NUM> due to its shorter overall length, whereas the second side rail <NUM> has a shorter edge <NUM> due to its longer overall length.

It is further noted that neither the first side rail <NUM> or second side rail <NUM> include a defined gap or slot <NUM> and end portion <NUM> similar to the ramp assembly shown in <FIG>. Instead, the first side rail <NUM> in particular has a shorter overall length to accommodate the deployment device <NUM>.

In <FIG>, the ramp assembly <NUM> is shown including a carriage assembly <NUM> and a track assembly <NUM>. These two assemblies will now be described.

In <FIG>, the track assembly <NUM> is shown including an elongated guide track <NUM> formed by a first edge <NUM>, a second edge <NUM>, and a channel <NUM> formed therebetween. The length of the channel <NUM> partly defines the length or amount of travel of the ramp <NUM> between its stowed and deployed positions. The carriage assembly <NUM>, which is connected to the ramp <NUM>, travels along the channel <NUM> as the ramp assembly <NUM> moves between its stowed position and its deployed position.

In the stowed position, the guide assembly <NUM> may come into contact with a stopper assembly <NUM> at a first end of the track assembly <NUM>. A guide assembly <NUM> is located at a second end <NUM> of the track assembly <NUM>. The guide assembly <NUM>, as will be described in further detail below, assists with controlling the pivotal movement of the side rails <NUM>, <NUM>.

With respect to <FIG>, the stopper assembly <NUM> is shown in greater detail. Here, the stopper assembly <NUM> may include an upper member <NUM> formed of a steel, aluminum or other metal. A stop member <NUM> may be disposed below the upper <NUM>. The stop member <NUM> may be formed of a plastic or other material. For instance, it may be possible for the stop member <NUM> to be formed of an elastic or foam material. The carriage assembly <NUM> and/or ramp <NUM> may contact the stop member <NUM> and/or upper member <NUM> in the stowed position. A lower member <NUM> may be located within the channel <NUM> and below the upper member <NUM> and stop member <NUM>. The lower member <NUM> may be formed of a plastic or other material. In one embodiment, the lower member <NUM> may be the same material as the stopper member <NUM>. In a different embodiment, the stopper member <NUM> and lower member <NUM> may be formed of a different material.

The stopper assembly <NUM> may also include one or more fasteners <NUM> for securing the upper member <NUM>, the stopper member <NUM>, and the lower member <NUM> to one another. Moreover, the fasteners <NUM> may further couple the stopper assembly <NUM> to the track assembly <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG> and <FIG>, the guide assembly <NUM> is shown in greater detail. The guide assembly <NUM> may include an elongated plate <NUM> similar to the one depicted in <FIG>. The plate <NUM> may include a plurality of ears <NUM> having openings through which fasteners such as bolts may connect the guide assembly to the vehicle floor or chassis. Other types of fasteners or means for securing the guide assembly <NUM> to the vehicle may be used.

The guide assembly <NUM> may also include a first guide member <NUM> and a second guide member <NUM>. The first and second guide members may include shapes designated to assist with the raising and lowering of the side rails <NUM>, <NUM>. Each guide member is formed by a body having a scalloped edge <NUM>, a tapered edge <NUM>, a first straight edge <NUM>, a second straight edge <NUM>, and a third straight edge <NUM>. The straight edges may instead be curved, or in other embodiments there may be additional edges. As will be described below, the tapered edges <NUM> on both the first and second guide members may contact the ramp <NUM> as the ramp is moved from its stowed position to its deployed position in order to raise the side rails.

The guide members <NUM>, <NUM> may include openings through which one or more fasteners may couple the respective guide rail to the plate <NUM> and vehicle floor or chassis. Alternatively, the guide members <NUM>, <NUM> may be adhered, welded, or coupled in another way to the plate <NUM>.

The guide assembly <NUM> may also include a first roller assembly <NUM> and a second roller assembly <NUM>. The first roller assembly <NUM> may include a first roller <NUM> that rotates about a rotation axis <NUM>. Likewise, the second roller assembly <NUM> may include a second roller <NUM> that rotates about the same rotation axis <NUM>. Thus, the first and second roller assemblies <NUM>, <NUM> may be axially aligned along the rotation axis <NUM>. The bottom surface of the ramp <NUM> may contact the roller assemblies as it moves between its stowed and deployed positions, and the rollers may rotate in either direction to assist with the movement of the ramp during its transition.

The guide assembly <NUM> may further include a first centering block <NUM> and a second centering block <NUM>. The centering blocks may assist with keeping the ramp <NUM> centered as it moves between the stowed and deployed positions. As best shown in <FIG>, each centering block includes a base portion <NUM> and a raised portion <NUM>. The base portion <NUM> may include one or more apertures through which fasteners <NUM> may couple the blocks to the plate <NUM>.

In <FIG>, an embodiment of the carriage assembly <NUM> is shown in detail. Here, the carriage assembly <NUM> includes a carriage body <NUM>. The carriage body <NUM> defines a plurality of mounting holes <NUM> which may align with the plurality of mounting holes <NUM> on the hinge plate <NUM>. Thus, the carriage assembly <NUM> may be coupled to the hinge plate <NUM>, and thus the ramp <NUM>, by fasteners (not shown). The carriage assembly <NUM> may further include one or more leaf spring assemblies <NUM>. Each leaf spring assembly <NUM> may include a plurality of leaf springs. The leaf spring assemblies <NUM> may contact an underneath surface of the ramp <NUM>.

The carriage assembly <NUM> may further include a wheel assembly <NUM> that is coupled to a top surface thereof. The wheel assembly <NUM> may include a wheel that rotates in contact with an underside of the vehicle floor during transition of the ramp <NUM> between its stowed and deployed positions. As shown in <FIG>, the wheel assembly <NUM> may be coupled via an arm support <NUM> to the carriage body <NUM>. The support arm <NUM> may be welded, adhered, mechanically fastened, integrally formed with, or coupled to the carriage body <NUM> in any other known manner.

It is further shown in <FIG> that the leaf spring assemblies <NUM> may be coupled to the carriage body <NUM> via mounting plates <NUM>. The mounting plates <NUM> may be coupled via fasteners or the like to an underside surface of the carriage assembly <NUM>.

The carriage assembly <NUM> may also include a plurality of track wheels <NUM> and a center wheel <NUM>, as also shown in <FIG>. The center wheel <NUM> and plurality of track wheels <NUM> may slide or rotate within the channel <NUM> of the guide track <NUM>. As the center wheel <NUM> and plurality of track wheels <NUM> are disposed in the channel <NUM>, the carriage assembly <NUM> and ramp <NUM> remain substantially positioned along a longitudinal axis defined by the guide track <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, the underside of the ramp <NUM> is shown in greater detail. Here, the ramp <NUM> includes a bottom surface <NUM>. One or more stiffener ribs <NUM> may be coupled or welded to the bottom surface <NUM> to improve the rigidity and durability of the ramp <NUM>. The stiffener ribs <NUM> may extend towards the hinge plate <NUM> and be aligned with the leaf spring assemblies <NUM>. In at least one example, the stiffener ribs <NUM> may capture or at least partially cover the leaf spring assemblies <NUM> on the carriage assembly <NUM> in order to reduce the ability or likelihood of the ramp <NUM> lifting or raising above the horizontal plane defined by the ramp <NUM> itself.

As described above, the first side rail <NUM> and second side rail <NUM> may pivot between a folded position and an unfolded position. In the folded position, the ramp assembly <NUM> is in its stowed position, or at least partially stowed. In the unfolded position, the ramp assembly <NUM> may be in its deployed position or in transition to or from its deployed position.

In order to move the side rails between their folded and unfolded positions, the ramp assembly <NUM> may include a first arm <NUM> and a second arm <NUM> pivotally coupled to the ramp <NUM>. Here, the first arm <NUM> is coupled at one end to the ramp <NUM> and second side rail <NUM> via a first pivot mounting <NUM>. The first arm <NUM> may be coupled to a first roller wheel <NUM> at its second end. Likewise, the second arm <NUM> is coupled at one end to the ramp <NUM> and the first side rail <NUM> via a second pivot mounting <NUM>. The second arm is further coupled to a second roller wheel <NUM> at its second end, as shown in <FIG>.

During operation, the ramp assembly <NUM> may be disposed in its stowed position. When it is desired to move the ramp assembly <NUM> to its deployed position, a user may pull the ramp <NUM> via its handle <NUM> until either the deployment device <NUM> may be inserted into the opening <NUM> or until the ramp assembly <NUM> reaches its deployed position. The deployment device <NUM> may simply be a tool to assist with moving the ramp assembly <NUM> between its stowed and deployed positions.

As the ramp assembly <NUM> transitions to its deployed position, the ramp <NUM> and carriage assembly <NUM> move along the guide track <NUM>. In particular, the center wheel <NUM> and plurality of track wheels <NUM> may slide or rotate within the channel <NUM> of the guide track <NUM>. As the ramp <NUM> transitions out of the compartment of the vehicle, it may begin to pivot downwardly via its hinge plate <NUM>.

Moreover, as the ramp <NUM> is moved to its deployed position, the first roller wheel <NUM> and second roller wheel <NUM> may engage the tapered edges <NUM> of the first guide member <NUM> and second guide member <NUM>. As the roller wheels engage the tapered edges <NUM>, the first arm <NUM> and the second arm <NUM> may move outwardly and induce a pivotal movement about the respective pivot mountings <NUM>, <NUM>. As such, the first side rail <NUM> and second side rail <NUM> may pivot from their folded position to their upright, unfolded position (see <FIG> and <FIG>). The ramp <NUM> may reach its deployed position as the ramp end <NUM> engages the ground or other surface.

In this position, the manual deployment device <NUM> may be decoupled from the ramp <NUM> and a user may maneuver a wheelchair along the ramp to enter or exit the vehicle. It is further noted that the carriage assembly <NUM> may be disposed near the door opening of the vehicle, and the ramp <NUM> is positioned at an angle with respect to the carriage body <NUM> and plate <NUM> of the guide assembly <NUM>. The ramp <NUM> is able to be disposed in this position due to the pivotal nature of the hinge plate <NUM>.

When returning or moving the ramp assembly <NUM> to its stowed position from its deployed position, the manual deployment device <NUM> may be coupled to the ramp <NUM>. The ramp <NUM> may then be lifted and pivoted about its hinge plate <NUM> and slid back into the vehicle compartment. As it does, the carriage assembly <NUM> may slide along the guide track <NUM>. Moreover, the roller wheels may disengage from the tapered edges <NUM> of the first and second guide members <NUM>, <NUM>, thereby inducing the first and second side rails to collapse to their folded positions.

Claim 1:
A ramp assembly (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) for use to accommodate a wheel-chaired passenger to enter or exit a motorized vehicle (<NUM>), comprising:
a ramp body (<NUM>, <NUM>) having a length defined along a longitudinal direction, the ramp body (<NUM>, <NUM>) including a first side, a second side, a first end (<NUM>) and a second end (<NUM>, <NUM>);
a first side rail (<NUM>, <NUM>) pivotably coupled to the ramp body (<NUM>, <NUM>) along the first side;
a second side rail (<NUM>, <NUM>) pivotably coupled to the ramp body (<NUM>, <NUM>) along the second side;
a hinge plate (<NUM>, <NUM>) pivotably coupled to the ramp body (<NUM>, <NUM>) at the first end (<NUM>);
a first arm (<NUM>, <NUM>) coupled to a bottom surface (<NUM>, <NUM>) of the ramp body (<NUM>, <NUM>), the first arm (<NUM>, <NUM>) including a first roller wheel (<NUM>, <NUM>); and
a second arm (<NUM>, <NUM>) coupled to the bottom surface (<NUM>, <NUM>) of the ramp body (<NUM>, <NUM>), the second arm (<NUM>, <NUM>) including a second roller wheel (<NUM>, <NUM>);
wherein, the first side rail (<NUM>, <NUM>) and second side rail (<NUM>, <NUM>) are pivotably moved between a folded position in which the first and second side rails (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) pivot inwardly and a raised position in which the side rails (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) are oriented perpendicular to the ramp body (<NUM>, <NUM>);
wherein, the first arm (<NUM>, <NUM>) operably pivots the first side rail (<NUM>, <NUM>) between its folded and raised position, and the second arm (<NUM>, <NUM>) operably pivots the second side rail (<NUM>, <NUM>) between its folded and raised position;
further wherein, the ramp body (<NUM>, <NUM>) moves between a stowed position and a deployed position, the first and second side rails (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) being in their folded position when the ramp (<NUM>, <NUM>) is in its stowed position and in their raised position when the ramp (<NUM>, <NUM>) is in its deployed position.