Foldable ramp

Abstract

A foldable wheelchair ramp is disclosed having a mountable base, a first ramp section and a second ramp section. In an extended configuration, the first and second ramp sections form a single, continuous ramp for facilitating wheelchair access to vehicles. For convenient storage, the first and second ramp sections fold with respect to each other and preferably retract into the vehicle floor such that, in the folded configuration, the top surface of the second ramp section lies substantially in the same plane as the vehicle floor. A linking assembly is provided to facilitate and control the folding of the ramp sections. For safety purposes, the ramp also includes a lid that covers the gaps between the ramp and the vehicle floor when the ramp is in an extended position.

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       5 . A foldable ramp for use in a vehicle having a floor, comprising: 
 a power source;    a base;    a first ramp section proximal the base and a second ramp section distal the base, the first and second ramp sections each having a top and a bottom surface when in an unfolded condition;    a linking assembly operatively connecting the first ramp section to the power source, the linking assembly having a driving arm, a driven arm and a fold facilitating arm, wherein the fold facilitating arm comprises a cable having a first end and a second end;    wherein the first end of the cable is attached to the driven arm and the second end of the cable is attached to the second ramp section.    
   
   
       6 . The foldable ramp of  claim 5  wherein the cable comprises a chain.  
   
   
       7 . The foldable ramp of  claim 5  wherein the cable comprises a wire.  
   
   
       8 . The foldable ramp of  claim 5  wherein the cable comprises metal.  
   
   
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