How to Use This Calculator
- Enter the vertical height of your loading platform in meters (e.g., 0.5 meters for a 50cm height).
- Enter your desired slope angle for the ramp (typically between 1° and 45°). A smaller slope angle requires a longer but gentler ramp.
- Click the "Calculate" button to see the results.
- The calculator will display the required ramp length, horizontal distance, and confirm the slope angle.
Understanding Ramp Slope
The slope of a loading ramp determines how steep it is. Common slope ranges include:
- 1-5°: Very gentle slope, ideal for wheelchairs and mobility scooters
- 5-10°: Moderate slope, suitable for standard wheelbarrows and small carts
- 10-15°: Steeper slope, suitable for larger carts and equipment
- 15-20°: Very steep slope, only suitable for smaller, lightweight items
Example Calculation
If you need to load a platform that is 1 meter high and prefer a slope of 10°:
Ramp Length = 1 meter / sin(10°) ≈ 5.67 meters
This means you would need a ramp approximately 5.67 meters long to achieve a 10° slope with a 1-meter height.
Important Safety Considerations
- Always ensure the ramp has appropriate non-slip surfaces.
- For steep ramps, consider adding handrails for safety.
- Check local building codes and accessibility standards for required ramp dimensions.
- Ensure the ramp is properly secured to prevent shifting.