Reducing Cattle Stress During Transport: Structural Design And Analysis Of A Ramp-Gate System

Abstract

The transportation of cattle in India often relies on regular goods carrier vehicles that lack specialized adjustments for loading and unloading. Typically, cattle are loaded using mud ramps or concrete bases available at markets and dairies. However, in remote locations such as farms or roadside emergencies, loading becomes a significant challenge, leading to stress and potential injury to the animals. To address this issue, a modular cattle transport ramp is designed, which functions both as a loading platform and a secure safety door for the vehicle. This case study presents the design and structural analysis of a cattle transport vehicle ramp with a maintaining sloping angle as per the 31inch base carriage clearance, intended to function as a closing safety door. The ramp is designed with a width of 5.5 ft and a length of 6.6 ft, constructed using a 3mm checkered plate welded onto a 40mm metal pipe frame. The structural integrity of the ramp is analyzed through load distribution calculations, deflection testing, finite element analysis and physical stress parameter like pulse rate and respiration rate are analysis to ensure safe and effective performance and validation through Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and compliance with IS 14904 standards and Indian Road Transport Authority. Key design considerations include weight-bearing capacity for two cattle (approx. 1000 kg), non-slip surface for enhanced grip, and easy integration with the vehicle aiming to ensure the ramp's safety and reliability during cattle loading and transport. Performance testing demonstrates that the analyzed deflection is less than 4mm in loading, loading time by 30% and reduces approximate 70% cattle stresses as compared to traditional methods. Graphical validation through stress-strain analysis and deflection graphs confirms its structural stability under dynamic loading conditions. This study establishes a functional and efficient solution for cattle transport, ensuring safer handling and reduced risks for both handlers and animals. Future improvements may include hydraulic assist mechanisms for enhanced usability.