Design Engineering Consultancy
Oct 20 - Jan 21
Client: Network Rail Station Accessibility Specialist
Brief: Deliver a 3D model & engineering drawings based on the client’s concept for a disabled-access train boarding ramp that includes a built-in 90 degree turn.
Background: There are 2,500 Network Rail managed railway stations in the UK, in 2021 over half of the stations are not disabled-access certified. Accessible stations must allow for unrestricted use of train boarding ramps as well as 1.50 metres of unobstructed wheelchair turning space beyond the ramp. Network Rail aims to upgrade all stations to meet disabled-access standards - however, insufficient platform depth and structural features that block platform space inhibit the disabled-access certification of stations.
Process: I used a Design Engineering process to create:
Concept drawings & presentations
A design specification against UK rail station regulations
A Fusion 360 model (iteration was made easier through use of parametric dimensions)
Exploration of design & utility patents (decision made not to proceed)
Fusion 360 Renders
Features of the New, 90 Degree Ramp:
1.80 metres of platform space saved compared to the Existing, Straight-Off Ramp control model ( the New, 90 Degree Ramp occupies 1.54 metres of platform depth). This saved space would improve passenger flow from a disembarked train during busy, peak-hour travel.
Ramp height is adjustable between 0.3 and 0.45 metres (using telescopic support legs).
Deployable by one member of station staff. Enabled by two carrying handles and foldability to reduce storage space.
Outcome: The client and I explored multiple route to markets; the current plan is to enter future Network Rail and Department for Transport innovation competitions.
Personal Reflection: This project is my most developed Fusion 360 model; I gained significant experience in the software and would like to develop in future projects. I enjoyed the design engineering process with bi-weekly zoom calls to communicate progress with the client.
