Ramp - what is it? In the general technical sense, this device is a flat surface connecting two others located at different heights relative to each other. They are also called ramps. They are intended primarily for overcoming obstacles of different heights in wheelchairs and prams. Today, the installation of such a device on stairs at the entrance to railway and bus stations, shops, hospitals, entrances, as well as inside buildings on flights of stairs has become widespread.
What is
A properly designed ramp usually consists of two horizontal (at the beginning and end) and one inclined surface, or is equipped with transitions on the surfaces at the ends. These design features are intended primarily for confident entry and exit of people in wheelchairs without assistance.
Where applicable
With a narrow understanding of the word ramp (that this is a device only for wheelchairs), another use should be noted. There are also ramps in the theater (decorative stage detail) and car ramps (in underground garages for movementbetween their floors).
As translated
If we talk about such a concept as the meaning of the word "ramp", then we can say the following. It is derived from the French expression pente douce, which, translated into Russian, means “slope slope.”
An essential tool for people with disabilities
The wheelchair ramp is usually made of metallic materials, often ribbed to prevent wheelchair wheels from slipping. Its obligatory element is the side safety bumpers. They must be at least 5 cm high.
There are three variations of this wheelchair carrier:
- stationary;
- folding;
- removable.
Stationary ramp - what is it
When considering the first variety, it must be said that this is the most common among the listed species. These ramps are built to last and are non-removable. As a rule, they are mounted on stairs at the entrance to buildings.
Stationary structures can be single- or double-span (with a transition platform between the spans) and the obligatory presence of supporting side rails. Handrails must be continuous, parallel and longer than the slope. The base material of these fixed fixtures is usually a concrete mix or metal base.
Convenient folding option
These ramps (as well as stationary ones) are non-removable. But at the same time, there is the possibility of tilting or tilting if they are not needed to use them. In this regard, a folding ramp is usually installed at the entrance. The basis of the design is the same as that of the stationary one, only the guide strips are rigidly connected to each other at the ends. The fixture itself is attached using specially mounted hinges to the entrance wall. For use, the structure is removed from these hinges and lies on the flight of stairs. After moving the stroller along it, the device is removed and fixed on the retaining loops (for unhindered passage of people).
Varieties of removable ramps
The third type, in turn, is divided into:
- sliding telescopic;
- threshold;
- roll ramps.
On flights of stairs
Sliding telescopic ramps are intended primarily for use in places where the installation of a stationary one will greatly interfere with the passage of people. Removable ramps are universal and can be installed on almost any flight of stairs. They are easy to assemble and unfold, and when assembled are often used when overcoming curbs on the street or a small number of steps on the stairs.
At the entrance to the apartment
Sill ramps are more compact than other removable designs. They are designed to move a wheelchair over thresholds in apartments, curbs on the street and other minor high- altitude obstacles. The installation of such a designcan be produced by one person due to its compactness and low weight.
For travel
The third kind of removable wheelchair carriers is a kind of telescopic. Its difference from sliding counterparts lies in the method of folding. Here the whole structure is folded along the length. This makes them very convenient for transportation, as the assembled structure takes up little space in a car or other vehicle, which is often essential.
What is most often meant by the term "ramp" today? That this is a device that is intended primarily for people with disabilities. After all, this seemingly simple structure can not only significantly facilitate, but also improve their lives.
