1. What is Slope of Ramp?

The slope of a ramp represents the steepness or incline of the ramp, calculated as the ratio of vertical rise to horizontal run. It is a dimensionless value that indicates how much the ramp rises for each unit of horizontal distance.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the slope formula:

Where:

• \( m \) — Slope (unitless)
• \( rise \) — Vertical change (in units like meters or feet)
• \( run \) — Horizontal change (in units like meters or feet)

Explanation: The formula calculates the steepness of a ramp by dividing the vertical height change by the horizontal length.

3. Importance of Slope Calculation

Details: Accurate slope calculation is crucial for designing accessible ramps, ensuring safety standards, and meeting building code requirements for various applications.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter both rise and run values in the same units (meters, feet, etc.). Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the maximum slope for wheelchair ramps?
A: The ADA recommends a maximum slope of 1:12 (8.33%) for wheelchair ramps, meaning 1 unit of rise per 12 units of run.

Q2: How do I convert slope to percentage?
A: Multiply the slope by 100 to get the percentage grade. For example, a slope of 0.0833 equals 8.33%.

Q3: What units should I use for rise and run?
A: Use consistent units for both measurements (both in meters, both in feet, etc.). The slope result will be unitless.

Q4: Can slope be greater than 1?
A: Yes, slopes greater than 1 indicate very steep inclines where the rise is greater than the run.

Q5: How does slope affect ramp usability?
A: Steeper slopes require more effort to ascend and can be dangerous for wheelchair users, while gentler slopes are more accessible but require longer ramp lengths.