Counterbalance for a fold out ramp

摘要

A ramp assembly includes a ramp portion configured for reciprocating motion between a stowed position, a deployed position, and a neutral position. The ramp assembly includes a counterbalance comprising a lug associated with the ramp portion so that movement of the ramp portion toward the deployed position moves the lug along an arcuate path in a first direction, and movement of the ramp portion toward the stowed position moves the lug along the arcuate path in a second direction. A link is coupled to the lug, and a guide is fixedly located relative to the stowed position of the ramp portion. A biasing element is associated with the link such that movement of the ramp portion away from the neutral position moves the biasing element toward the guide.

主权项

1. A ramp assembly, comprising:
(a) a ramp portion configured for reciprocating motion between a stowed position, a deployed position, and a neutral position; and (b) a counterbalance associated with the ramp portion, comprising:
(i) a lug associated with the ramp portion, movement of the ramp portion toward the deployed position moving the lug along an arcuate path in a first direction, movement of the ramp portion toward the stowed position moving the lug along the arcuate path in a second direction;(ii) a link having a first end rotatably coupled to the lug;(iii) a guide fixedly located relative to the stowed position of the ramp portion;(iv) a biasing element associated with the link, movement of the ramp portion away from the neutral position moving the biasing element toward the guide; and(v) a spring disposed between the guide and the biasing element, wherein (1) movement of the ramp portion from the neutral position toward the stowed position compresses the spring, and (2) movement of the ramp portion from the neutral position toward the deployed position compresses the spring.