U.S. patent application number 10/652508 was filed with the patent office on 2004-02-26 for portable ramp system.
Invention is credited to Massaro, Joseph.
Application Number | 20040034950 10/652508 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 31890909 |
Filed Date | 2004-02-26 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040034950 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Massaro, Joseph |
February 26, 2004 |
Portable ramp system
Abstract
A portable ramp system particularly intended to assist
temporarily handicapped persons with transport in and out of houses
and buildings. Specifically, the system consists of several modular
ramp members removably attached to one another to allow convenient
wheelchair access to the application in question. Preferably
constructed of wood, the members consist of hingedly-attached
starter, rise, and straight panels, which may be folded down to a
relatively compact size for the purpose of removal and transport.
In addition, the system may include collapsible railing members to
further assist the user. Finally, the horizontal panels of the ramp
system may include a skid-resistant surface for the utmost in
wheelchair traction. As such, the ramp system meets applicable ADA
guidelines and provides a quick, convenient, and relatively
inexpensive means for temporarily handicapped persons to access
houses and similar structures.
Inventors: |
Massaro, Joseph; (Smithtown,
NY) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Joseph Massaro
359 Forest Lane
Smithtown
NY
11787
US
|
Family ID: |
31890909 |
Appl. No.: |
10/652508 |
Filed: |
August 29, 2003 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10652508 |
Aug 29, 2003 |
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09891079 |
Jun 25, 2001 |
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60214677 |
Jun 27, 2000 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
14/69.5 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E04F 2011/007 20130101;
E04F 11/1865 20130101; A61G 3/061 20130101; E04F 11/002 20130101;
E04F 2011/1887 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
14/69.5 |
International
Class: |
E01D 001/00 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A portable ramp system comprising: a start component, which
comprises a start top surface and a start bottom surface, the start
component further comprising at least one closed extended rail
member on a first side of the start top surface, functioning to
provide a convenient means for a user to gain support when entering
a ramp area, and functioning to provide a safe configuration; a
plurality of rise components, each of which comprises a rise top
surface and a rise bottom surface; at least one platform component,
which comprises a platform top surface and a platform bottom
surface; at least one collapsible railing assembly, which comprises
horizontal members and vertical members; the railing assembly
including a horizontal center rail thereon, the center rail
continuous and unobstructed by obstacles; the railing assembly
further comprising an inside grab rail to provide extra safety and
support; a 90 degree horizontal, straight component which functions
to affix to a rise component on a first side and a horizontal,
straight component on a second side, functioning to create a
generally "L" shaped configuration of the ramp system; a 45 degree
straight component, which functions to affix to a rise component on
a first side and a straight component on a second side, functioning
to create a generally curved configuration of the ramp system; the
start top surface, rise top surface, and platform top surface each
comprising a non-skid material thereon, functioning to allow for
increased traction for wheels; the components manufactured of
pressure treated lumber and comprising a textured, coated material
thereon, functioning to protect the components from moisture and
allow for an enhanced gripping surface for the purposes of safety;
the ramp system conforming to ADA guidelines with a 1 inch rise in
pitch per every 1 foot in length of ramp utilized; the system
bearing indicia upon an outer surface thereof; the ramp system
comprising a series of mounted brackets as a fastening means of
components, the brackets interlocking in nature and providing
convenience in installation and sufficient spaces for drainage; and
the ramp system comprising support brackets in a general "X" shape,
functioning to provide additional support for higher vertical
railing members.
2. The portable ramp system as described in claim 1, wherein the
system further comprises an illumination means.
3. The portable ramp system as described in claim 1, wherein the
railing assembly comprises a total of 3 horizontal members.
4. The portable ramp system as described in claim 1, wherein the
railing assembly comprises a total of 4 horizontal members.
Description
[0001] This Application is a continuation of application Ser. No.
09/891,079, filed by present Applicant, which is related to
Provisional Patent Application No. 60/214,677, filed by present
Applicant Joseph Massaro, on Jun. 27, 2000.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention is a portable ramp system particularly
intended to assist temporarily handicapped persons with transport
in and out of houses and buildings. Specifically, the system
consists of several modular ramp members removably attached to one
another to allow convenient wheelchair access to the application in
question. Preferably constructed of wood, the members consist of
hingedly-attached starter, rise, and straight panels, which may be
folded down to a relatively compact size for the purpose of removal
and transport. In addition, the system may include collapsible
railing members to further assist the user. Finally, the horizontal
panels of the ramp system may include a skid-resistant surface for
the utmost in wheelchair traction. As such, the ramp system meets
applicable ADA guidelines and provides a quick, convenient, and
relatively inexpensive means for temporarily handicapped persons to
access houses and similar structures.
[0004] 2. Description of the Prior Art
[0005] Numerous innovations for ramp systems have been provided in
the prior art that are described as follows. Even though these
innovations may be suitable for the specific individual purposes to
which they address, they differ from the present invention as
hereinafter contrasted. The following is a summary of those prior
art patents most relevant to the invention at hand, as well a
description outlining the differences between the features of the
present invention and those of the prior art.
[0006] 1. U.S. Utility Patent 5,933,898, invented by Estes et al.,
entitled "Portable Wheelchair Ramp"
[0007] In the patent to Estes, a series of hingedly connected
spanning panels is provided. Each spanning panel includes two
opposing outer edges. Alternating ones of the spanning panels
include a raised ridge disposed along each of the outer edges of
the spanning panel. At least one sleeve is disposed along each of
the outer edges of a plurality of the spanning panels. A plurality
of elongated rods are provided. Each of the rods is configured to
pass through a plurality of the sleeves, the rods thereby
maintaining the spanning panels in a substantially fixed linear
relationship to one another. An end panel is hingedly connected to
each end of the series of hingedly connected spanning panels. Each
of the end panels is substantially wedge shaped and includes a
gripping surface.
[0008] 2. U.S. Design Pat. Des. 373,885, invented by Holland, Jr.,
entitled "Telescopic Ramp"
[0009] The design patent to Holland, Jr. describes an ornamental
design for a telescopic ramp, as shown.
[0010] 3. U.S. Utility Patent 3,818,528, invented by Peterson,
entitled "Portable Ramp For Wheel Chairs And The Like"
[0011] The patent to Peterson describes a portable ramp embodying a
number of longitudinal ramp members disposed side by side, each
including a number of separate ramp sections arranged end to end,
and hinges joining the adjacent ramp members and the adjacent ramp
sections of each member in a manner such that the ramp may be
folded laterally and endwise between an expanded configuration of
use and a collapsed configuration in which the ramp may be
conveniently stored and transported. The ramp is intended primarily
for use as a wheel chair ramp for steps and the like, although the
ramp may be used for other purposes.
[0012] 4. U.S. Utility Patent 5,517,708, invented by Baranowski,
entitled "Community Pathway Access System For Wheelchair Users"
[0013] In the patent to Baranowski, an access pathway is provided
as a device that may be temporarily or portably deployed for
wheelchair users accompanied by an assistant. The device, which is
a pathway that may be carried by the user or provided at a site
when required, is installed in cooperation with a pre-existing
anchor at the site, and may be subject to temporary loan, such as
from a central community service provider or a library. A
convenient and inexpensive system is thus provided that achieves
wheelchair access in many circumstances.
[0014] 5. U.S. Utility Patent 5,214,817, invented by Allen,
entitled "Modular Ramp And Landing Walkway Assembly"
[0015] The patent to Allen describes a modular ramp and landing
assembly made from a plurality of similarly sized pre-manufactured
concrete filled rectangular panels. The ramp portion is made from
the modular panels attached by their shorter sides. A support post
with an angularly arranged bracket is placed beneath the corners of
adjacent panels to secure them together as well as support them.
The landing or horizontal portion of this assembly comprises a
similarly sized rectangular panel the long side of which is in
abutting relationship with the short side of the end of the ramp.
Fastener receivers are equi-spaced in duplicate patterns from each
corner through the bottom edge of each panel. The size of the
panels and the spacing of the fastener receivers are such that
minimum support legs and brackets may be utilized in constructing
this assembly at a final site.
[0016] 6. U.S. Utility Patent 4,945,595, invented by Meriweather,
entitled "Modular Ramp Assembly"
[0017] The patent to Meriweather describes a lightweight pedestrian
ramp assembly for bridging a span of open water between two marine
structures is readily adaptable in length and width to meet
existing site requirements. The ramp assembly is constructed of
successive elongated ramp units, each of which is in turn
constructed of adjacent, elongated channel shaped fiberglass
modules defining a planar walking surface across the backs of the
channel webs.
[0018] 7. U.S. Utility Patent 5,671,496 invented by Smith, entitled
"Portable Wheel Chair Ramp"
[0019] The patent to Smith describes a wheel chair ramp comprising
a plurality of leaves extending in the direction of intended use of
the ramp. The leaves are joined together by flexible hinges so that
the leaves may be folded to a stalked condition. The flexible
hinges are formed by fabric straps attached to the sides of the
leaves and passing between adjacent leaves.
[0020] 8. U.S. Utility Patent 5,446,937, invented by Haskins,
entitled "Modular Ramp System"
[0021] The patent to Haskins describes a modular ramp system for
use with a threshold which has an offset. The modular ramp system
includes a number of elements which may be arranged in various
combinations in order to conform to offsets of varying height.
[0022] 9. U.S. Utility Patent 5,894,618, invented by Jacobsen et
al., entitled "Ramp System"
[0023] The Jacobsen et al. invention relates to a ramp system. The
ramp system includes a riser component with a first side and second
side that meets the first. The second side and first form an angle
less than 90.degree.. The system also includes an adjuster
component positionable within the riser. The adjuster component
lifts one end of the first side so that an angle that the second
makes with the horizontal is increased compared to an angle made
between the second side and the horizontal without the adjuster
component.
[0024] 10. U.S. Utility Patent 3,995,832 invented by Wiese,
entitled "Collapsible Bleacher Rail"
[0025] The patent to Wiese describes a collapsible bleacher railing
in conjunction and for use with a collapsible bleacher section or
sections, which includes normally vertical, upright, support
sections having a plurality of telescoping handrail sections
therebetween such that as the bleachers are moved to their relative
locations, the handrail will extend and collapse therewith and
therefore eliminate the requirement for removal from the bleacher
sections.
[0026] 11. U.S. Utility Patent 5,237,932, invented by Edwards,
entitled "Collapsible Railing"
[0027] The patent to Edwards describes a collapsible railing having
an upper rail and a plurality of posts hingedly attached to the
upper rail at spaced apart locations. A crank including a shaft
portion and an arm portion which is mounted for rotation about the
long axis of the shaft portion is connected to each post. An
actuator actuates the motion of the crank to pivot the posts and
the upper rails between a collapsed position in which each post is
oriented generally horizontally, and an erect position in which the
posts are in an upright position.
[0028] 12. U.S. Utility Patent 6,009,586, invented by Hawkes et
al., entitled "Truss And Panel System For Access Ramps"
[0029] The patent to Hawkes et al. describes a ramp structure which
may be constructed quickly to provide temporary or permanent access
to all individuals between two areas of different elevation. A
truss design allows long spans to form a bridge without the need
for intermediate supports and related support foundations. A truss
cross-connector is firmly wedged in place between two trusses and
allows the quick, solid joining of two trusses without fasteners to
form a strong and stable assembly to serve as ramps, bridges,
elevated walkways, etc. The truss cross-connector has resistance to
bending and supports the edge of a surface panel and provides a
retaining pocket for the surface panel. The truss cross-connector
firmly supports the trusses in an upright position when the trusses
are used as railings. Surfacing panels placed between the truss
cross-connectors provide a quality, long lasting surface which is
quickly installed for temporary or permanent installations. The
truss cross-connector also prevents casual removal of a closely
fitting surface panel. A special tool is included in the system for
easy disassembly of light trusses of this design without damage to
the components. The design of the ramp system can be easily
disassembled and reused for temporary or permanent installations
and meets Americans with Disabilities Act guidelines.
[0030] As outlined above, the prior art patents that relate to
temporary or portable ramps largely entail elements such as:
telescopic panels; panels held together by fabric straps; portable
ramps intended to bridge water; and portable ramps intended to
assist the user in entering and exiting vehicles. Generally, such
prior art patents describe relatively small portable ramps, rather
than stronger, more stable ramp systems that may be installed for
several months and then removed. Collapsible railings appear in
certain prior art patents, but such inventions mostly relate to
bleachers and seating assemblies.
[0031] In contrast to all of the above, the present invention is a
system of hingedly-attached wooden starter, rise, and straight ramp
panels which may be folded down to a compact size for removal and
transport. The system includes collapsible railing members and a
skid-resistant surface for enhanced safety and general
effectiveness.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0032] As noted, the present invention is a portable ramp system
intended to assist handicapped persons with transport in and out of
houses and buildings.
[0033] Accordingly, it is an object of the invention to provide a
system consisting of several modular ramp members removably
attached to one another to allow convenient wheelchair access to
the application in question.
[0034] It is an additional goal of the invention to provide a ramp
system constructed of wood, for the purposes of strength and
durability.
[0035] It is another object of the invention to provide a ramp
system consisting of hingedly-attached starter, rise, and straight
panels, which may be folded down to a relatively compact size for
the purpose of removal and transport.
[0036] Furthermore, it is a goal of the present invention to
provide a ramp system which may include collapsible railing members
to further assist the user.
[0037] It is another object of the invention to provide a system
featuring horizontal panels which include a skid-resistant surface
for the utmost in wheelchair traction.
[0038] Finally, it is an important goal of the present invention to
provide a temporary ramp system that meets all applicable ADA
guidelines and provides a quick, convenient, and relatively
inexpensive means for temporarily handicapped persons to access
houses and similar structures.
[0039] The novel features which are considered characteristic for
the invention will be set forth in the claims when submitted. The
invention itself, however, both as to its construction and its
method of operation, together with additional objects and
advantages thereof, will be best understood from the description of
the embodiments to be submitted when read and understood in
connection with accompanying figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0040] FIG. 1 is a display of basic modular components of the
present system including starter portion, rise members, straight
members, and collapsible railings.
[0041] FIG. 2 is a display of sample layouts of the basic modular
components, illustrating various installation combinations of the
present invention, also for the purposes of example only.
[0042] FIG. 3 is a side, three-quarter perspective view of one
embodiment of the present invention, illustrating the principal
components in three-dimensional view.
[0043] FIG. 4 is a side, partially exploded view of one embodiment
of the present invention, illustrating the principal components in
three-dimensional view, with means of attachment thereon.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0044] The following description refers to FIG. 1, which is a
display of basic modular components of the present system including
starter portion, rise members, straight members, and collapsible
railings; FIG. 2, which is a display of sample layouts of the basic
modular components, illustrating various installation combinations
of the present invention, also for the purposes of example only;
FIG. 3, which is a side, three-quarter perspective view of one
embodiment of the present invention, illustrating the principal
components in three-dimensional view; and FIG. 4, which is a side,
partially exploded view of one embodiment of the present invention,
illustrating the principal components in three-dimensional view,
with means of attachment thereon.
[0045] As depicted in FIG. 2, each version of the system consists
primarily of at least one start component, at least one rise
component, and at least one platform or straight component, each of
a size and shape selected from the components illustrated on FIG.
1. The components are constructed of wood in the preferred mode,
providing an attractive and economical option for the handicapped
and disabled in need of a ramp assembly.
[0046] For the purposes of example, simple pressure treated lumber
may be utilized to accomplish the purposes of the invention. Thus,
a particular distinction between the present invention and ramp
systems of the prior art lies in the usage of such wood components
in conjunction with the modular ability of the present invention.
Importantly, any of these components may be of a great variety of
lengths or widths, as needed for each application. Depending upon
the configuration of the area to which the ramp system is
temporarily installed (ie. door location, location of path, etc.),
additional components besides the start, rise, and platform may be
utilized.
[0047] Thus, the example shown in the top left hand corner of the
FIGURE includes a 90 degree straight component, which functions to
affix to a rise component on a first side and a straight component
on the second side. This functions to create a generally "L" shaped
configuration, when needed.
[0048] Along the same lines, the example depicted on the center
left portion of the FIGURE includes a 45 degree straight component,
which similarly functions to affix to a rise component on a first
side and a straight component on the second side. This functions to
create a generally curved configuration, when the location of the
door dictates that such is required.
[0049] More elaborate embodiments are depicted in the two
illustrations on the right hand side of FIG. 2, wherein the ramp
system is adapted to include 6 or more components, such as 3 or
more rise components with a start component, at least one platform,
and 90 degree straight component, if needed.
[0050] In any case, a series of mounted brackets as a fastening
means of components may be utilized. Such unique brackets are
interlocking in nature and provide convenience in installation as
well as sufficient space for drainage in the system.
[0051] To further illustrate the overall design, size, and possible
configuration of the present invention, FIGS. 3 and 4 are side,
three-dimensional views of a simple layout of the ramp system,
shown for the purposes of example only. Specifically, illustrated
in FIG. 3 are the start component (12), which comprises start top
surface (12A) and start bottom surface (12B); rise component (14),
which comprises rise top surface (14A) and rise bottom surface
(14B); platform component (16), which comprises platform top
surface (16A) and platform bottom surface (16B); collapsible
railing assembly (18), which comprises horizontal members (18H) and
vertical members (18V); and a plurality of support members (20).
Illustrated in FIG. 4 are the principal components, as well as
fastening means (22, 24).
[0052] As already mentioned, the start component (12), rise
component(s) (14), and platform component(s) (16) may each be of a
previously determined length and width, according to what is
necessary.
[0053] Railing assembly (18) includes a total of 3 horizontal
members (18H) in the preferred mode, but may also consist of 2 or 4
such members. A quantity of vertical members in proportion to the
length of the assembly are utilized for support. Support brackets
in a general "X" shape may also be utilized, functioning to provide
additional support for higher vertical railing members.
[0054] Moreover, the start top surface (12A), rise top surface
(14A), and platform top surface (16A) may each comprise a non-skid
material thereon, functioning to allow for increased traction for
wheels and the like. The railing assembly (18) and any other
components may comprise a textured, coated material thereon,
functioning to protect the components from moisture and also
allowing for an enhanced gripping surface for the purposes of
safety. The start component (12) may also comprise an aluminum
transitional member at a first end thereof, functioning to bridge
any gap between a ground surface and the start component, for ease
of transport of a wheelchair or the like.
[0055] Regarding any of the above embodiments, as mentioned in the
Summary section herein, the entire ramp system conforms to any and
all applicable ADA guidelines. Most notably, the guidelines require
1 inch or rise in pitch per every 1 foot in length of ramp
utilized. The present invention adheres to such standards,
rendering the system effective and safe for a host of applications
and uses. Within such guidelines, the precise angle at which the
components sit may be varied, if desired for a particular
application.
[0056] To use a common example to further describe the above, a 3
step configuration at a height of 24 inches utilizes 2-8 foot rise
members, a single 8 foot start component, plus the platform or
straight component as desired. As an additional example, a total of
only 2 steps at a height of 14 inches utilizes a single 6 foot
start member, a single 8 foot rise component, plus the platform or
straight component as desired.
[0057] It should also be noted that the size and total length of
the present ramp system can vary tremendously, such as from as
little as 6 feet in length, to as much as over 80 feet in length.
In addition, all of the aforementioned components may further
comprise a curb of a previously-determined size. For example, the
preferred embodiment utilizes a 31/2 inch curb.
[0058] Furthermore, the starter component of any configuration may
include a closed extended rail member thereon, functioning to
provide a convenient means for the user to gain support when
entering the ramp area that is still very safe in nature. In
addition, an inside grab rail may be included in the system,
installed separately as a option for extra safety and support. In
any case, the railing assembly may include a center rail which is
continuous and unobstructed, so as to allow a user to use the rail
for support without any impediments.
[0059] Moreover, the top rail of the ramp system of the present
invention may utilize a series of interlocking components in a
tongue and groove style configuration, functioning to provide
additional support to the assembly. In such case, certain
bracket-like support members comprise a substantially flat,
rectangular member extending outwardly from an edge of the bracket,
with a corresponding series of bracket-like support members
comprising similarly-shaped apertures for receiving such extended
members. The extended members may be constructed of a durable metal
or other rigid material, and may be further reinforced through
usage of traditional fasteners.
[0060] Also, in any instance the ramp system may comprise an
illumination means thereon, functioning to provide additional light
in the ramp area for safety and to enhance the appearance of the
system. Along similar lines, the ramp system of the present
invention may even include a variety of decorative elements
thereon, such as attractive spindles upon the railing assembly or
the like. Such will enhance the appearance of the system and
provide an aesthetically pleasing item that renders the same an
even more attractive option for users in need of a ramp
assembly.
[0061] Therefore, in total, the versatile nature of modular
components allows the ramp system of the present invention to adapt
to accommodate virtually any application, the system can be
literally made to order, the system is highly effective in nature
yet inexpensive, the system provides ease of installation and ease
of transport not provided by the prior art, and the system conforms
to all safety requirements and guidelines.
[0062] With regards to all FIGURES, while the invention has been
illustrated and described as embodied, it is not intended to be
limited to the details shown, since it will be understood that
various omissions, modifications, substitutions and changes in the
forms and details of the device illustrated and in its operation
can be made by those skilled in the art without departing in any
way from the spirit of the invention.
[0063] Without further analysis, the foregoing will so fully reveal
the gist of the present invention that others can readily adapt it
for various applications without omitting features that, from the
standpoint of prior art, constitute essential characteristics of
the generic or specific aspects of this invention. What is claimed
as new and desired to be protected by Letters Patent is set forth
in the appended claims.
* * * * *