1. What is Ramp Slope?

Ramp slope is a measure of the steepness or incline of a ramp, calculated as the ratio of vertical change (rise) to horizontal change (run). It is a dimensionless quantity 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:

• \( Rise \) — Vertical change (in units like meters or feet)
• \( Run \) — Horizontal change (in units like meters or feet)

Explanation: The slope represents the steepness of the ramp. A higher slope value indicates a steeper incline, while a lower value indicates a gentler slope.

3. Importance of Slope Calculation

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

4. Using the Calculator

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

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is considered an accessible slope for ramps?
A: For wheelchair accessibility, slopes typically range from 1:12 to 1:20 (approximately 0.083 to 0.05), depending on local building codes and specific requirements.

Q2: How do I convert slope to degrees or percentage?
A: To convert to degrees: angle = arctan(slope). To convert to percentage: slope × 100%. This calculator provides the basic slope ratio.

Q3: What units should I use for rise and run?
A: Use consistent units (both meters, both feet, both inches, etc.). The slope result is unitless since it's a ratio of the same units.

Q4: Can slope be greater than 1?
A: Yes, slope can be greater than 1, indicating a very steep incline where the vertical change exceeds the horizontal change.

Q5: How does slope relate to ramp design standards?
A: Different applications have different maximum slope requirements. For example, building codes often specify maximum slopes for accessibility, while industrial applications may allow steeper slopes.