MUMBAI, India, July 7 -- Intellectual Property India has published a patent application (202621058695 A) filed by Dr. D. Y. Patil Institute Of Technology, Pimpri, Pune on May 08, 2026, for Automatic Retractable Hydraulic System.
Inventors include Dr. Sarika. Khapre; Ghanshyam D. Patil; and Girija D. Sutar.
The application for the patent was published on July 03, 2026, under issue no. 27/2026.
Abstract: The present invention relates to a sensor-based retractable hydraulic bus entry system designed to assist elderly, disabled, and physically challenged passengers during boarding of public transport buses. Conventional buses are provided with elevated first steps, which create difficulty and safety risks for passengers with reduced mobility. To overcome this problem, the proposed system integrates a compact hydraulic lifting platform beneath the first step of the bus. The system comprises a rigid lifting platform mounted on a drawer-type linear sliding mechanism, a hydraulic cylinder for vertical lifting and lowering, a hydraulic pump and oil reservoir, and a microcontroller-based control unit. Upon activation through a control button, the platform slides outward from beneath the first step, descends to ground level, and allows the passenger to step onto it. A load sensor detects the presence of the passenger, after which the hydraulic system lifts the platform vertically to the height of the first bus step. Once the passenger boards the bus, the platform automatically retracts back into its concealed position. For enhanced safety and automation, the system incorporates proximity sensors to detect obstacles, position sensors to monitor platform movement, and safety interlocks to prevent vehicle movement during operation. Indicator LEDs provide real-time system status. The proposed invention is compact, concealed, cost- effective, and suitable for retrofitting into existing buses without major structural modifications. This system significantly improves accessibility, safety, and independence for elderly and disabled passengers, contributing to inclusive and user-friendly public transportation.
Disclaimer: Curated by HT Syndication.
