GSA Courthouse Management Group
Mechanical Lift Analysis Supplement
MECHANICAL RECONFIGURATION FOR ACCESSIBLE ACCOMMODATION
The Knoxville U.S. Courthouse is provided with at least one electrically power mechanically
retractable ramp at a jury box used to accommodate physically disabled jurors. The entire
system fits under a 6in. raised portion of the jury box floor. The riser element opens and
rotates on a spring integral with the hinge, allowing the ramp to slide out on guide rails and
engage with the edge of the raised floor. The entire operation takes 15 seconds. (Refer to the
photographs on Pages 5-39 and 5-40 of the Mechanical Lift Analysis.)
GENERAL ASSESSMENT
Both of these design concepts are appropriate when well-detailed and effectively integrated
into the jury box. They both address the fundamental goal of providing a means of access for
the physically disabled, occurring on a very infrequent basis, without requiring a fixed
element (ramp) that takes away circulation space in the courtroom well area.
RECOMMENDATIONS
MINIMUM DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
(MANUAL RECONFIGURATION CONCEPT)
o Provide details for durable finished edge conditions on both the moveable floor
element and the adjacent fixed floor opening.
o Specify two securely anchored collapsible pull devices rated for at least 100 lbs of
weight each.
o Detail a hinged plate condition that pivots out when the floor section is lowered, to
provide a smooth transition from the courtroom well over the raised edge of the
lowered floor section.
o Specify a durable clipped connection between the removable riser section and the
base of the jury box.
MINIMUM DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
(MECHANICAL RECONFIGURATION CONCEPT)
o Assure that proper clearance is provided for the fully-retracted ramp, guide rails, and
drive mechanism within the floor framing configuration under the jury box.
o Confirm the width required for the finished opening when the ramp is selected and
provide this information to the millwork contractor.
o Select appropriate finishes to be applied on the manufacturer's hinged riser element.
o Assure adequate maneuvering space for wheeled chairs when the ramp is extended.
HDR Architecture, Inc.
Section 8-6
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