Ideas for a DIY ramp

Here's one that's intended for retrofitting into a van. The company says they will make whatever length you need. It would require a 12VDC power supply but that's no real problem.

Thanks Robert, I'd come across the folding van ramps while chasing Bruce's search. I'm thinking it should be possible to build something out of plywood and 2x4s with some springs to help with the lift. The hardest part will be getting the springs right, so that they stay locked when open. I wouldn't want to launch someone with the 'ejector ramp'.

Heh, I imagine not. Springs work OK... unless/until they give out. Have you ever seen one of the old garage door springs break? One of my brothers used to volunteer on a First Aid squad. He told me how one of the springs on the big door for their garage -- big door: three ambulances side by side -- broke. It was like a steel bullwhip.

You might find it easier to set up a counter balancing system with weights, cables and pulleys. Once you have a manageable load a modified garage door opener might be just the thing. Are you handy with stuff like that or more inclined to search out a "store bought" solution?

Yeah fairly handy. DIY vs. buy depends on the mark up, my time, my dollars, projects in the queue, my interest in the project and my familiarity with the subject.

I've heard the spring horror stories, but I would not be dealing with anything near as heavy as a garage door. I imagine somewhere around 30 lbs.