How to take groceries up the hill...?

Question

Any web resources for designing and building a wheeled box on twin rails which is supposed to take small weights(groceries) up a 20 degree hill? I imagine it being operated by a winch located at the top of the hill (about 50m away from base). We are building a house on a hill and this would be a good way of not having to carry stuff up the stairs. Any ideas, plans or experiences highly appreciated!

Thanks everyone for your comments. The building is at the top of the hill, driveway is at the base. No way to terrace the property or drive up the hill (whould not make sense). I am inclined to go for a rail sitting on the ground with a cart on it and pulled by a winch at the top of the hill. There is no need for high power or special precautions because it's not for people, just for bags and other relatively heavy stuff that one cannot be bothered to carry up sixty steps on a relatively steep slope.

Answer 1

A metal rail on the ground with a cart moving on it, would be good for small - medium weights. Get the cart pulled uphill by steel wire. An anchor winch, like the ones we use on the boats can do the pulling up.
These come in various horsepower increments, and would be ok for heavier stuff too. Usually they work on 12 - 24V power.

Answer 2

I have no idea of websites; but the mechanics of this might be similar to Ski lifts/ Skyway Car rides/ Mining car modes/ Clothes lines/ etc. Least expensive and labor intensive would probably be the clothesline idea. Posts/ Pulleys/ a basket or carry box/ Strong enough line/ and perhaps still; some kind of braking/stop system in case the operator slips; or wants to find someone to actually GO GET the groceries from the vehicle.

It would seem logical to me that to bother is a bit over the top (no pun intended) but the device at the top should likely include a crank handle (if manual) and a toothed/ratchet wheel with a Stop on it in case one lets go of the handle (similar to a "come along")

Is the property large enough or if you drive, is there enough room, and ability to make a spiral drive?

I'm looking at a compass and a 20 degree slope isn't so difficult to navigate over 50 M. If it is just to mount the peak in a walk, perhaps you should terrace the incline?

Obviously you notion is valid. I'd be a bit gnarly if I had a truck load of anything to haul up a hill.

Certainly you could even motorize whatever method you choose.

* An added thought: A kids wagon and a length of rope.

Answer 3

Personally, I wouldn't build a house 150+ feet from the parking area. Getting up that hill every time you come home is going to get real tiresome, real soon. Family members or visitors in poor health will have a huge problem, and if you live in an area with icy winters, just keeping the steps or walk clear will be a big chore.

You might do better to find a way to grade a driveway closer to the house. It will surely help your resale value someday.

Answer 4

strong,pulleyed clothesline.small bags.