Counterweight detachment detection device

Abstract

The goal is to reliably detect counterweight detachment with a simple configuration, thereby reducing the burden on workers during installation and maintenance. [Solution] A counterweight detachment detection device 300 is provided to detect when a counterweight 105 that slides along a counter rail 301 installed in the hoistway of an elevator 100 detaches from the counter rail 301. The device comprises a magnetic sensor 211 provided on the counter rail 301 and a magnet 305 provided on the counterweight 105 that moves in and out of the detection range of the magnetic sensor 211 as the counterweight 105 slides along the counter rail 301. Based on the output of the magnetic sensor 211, the device detects when the counterweight 105 has detached from the counter rail 301.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a counterweight detachment detection device that detects the occurrence of counterweight detachment.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, there is an elevator equipped with a function that can automatically perform diagnostic operation and temporarily resume the operation of the elevator when the elevator stops due to an earthquake. Specifically, conventionally, for example, a floor for self-diagnosing the abnormal opening and closing of the elevator door during suspension due to an earthquake is set in advance, self-diagnosis is performed on the set floor as the diagnosis target, the floor where the abnormal opening and closing of the door is detected is registered as a non-stop floor, the floor where the abnormal opening and closing of the door is not detected is resumed for the operation of the elevator as a stop floor available for users, and it is notified to the users at the landing and the in-car operation device that the floor registered as the non-stop floor cannot be used, and there is a technology in which self-diagnosis is performed on the floors above and below the floor where the abnormal opening and closing of the door is detected (for example, refer to Patent Document 1 below).

[0003] Also, when the elevator stops operating due to an earthquake, it is assumed that the counterweight has come off the guide rail. If the car is moved with the counterweight off the guide rail, it is assumed that the counterweight will swing and contact the car and surrounding equipment, causing secondary damage. Therefore, prior to temporarily resuming the operation of the elevator, it is necessary to check whether the counterweight has come off the guide rail.

[0004] Specifically, there has been a conventional technology for a rail derailment detection device comprising, for example, magnets arranged at intervals toward a guide rail supporting a counterweight, a detection mechanism that uses the magnetic force of the magnets toward the guide rail to detect when the counterweight has derailed from the guide rail, and a wireless communication device that operates on power supplied by a battery and transmits a rail derailment detection signal when the detection mechanism detects that the counterweight has derailed from the guide rail (see, for example, Patent Document 2 below). [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6855605 [Patent Document 2] Patent No. 7009573 [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0006] However, conventional technologies for detecting when a counterweight has come off the guide rail, so-called "counterweight detachment," have problems with their complex structure, which places a heavy burden on workers for installation and maintenance. Furthermore, because elevator shafts are narrow, a complex structure exacerbates the burden on workers for installation and maintenance.

[0007] Furthermore, the conventional technology described in Patent Document 2 mentioned above has the problem that, because the rail derailment detection device operates on a battery, regular battery maintenance is required in preparation for earthquakes, which are difficult to predict, which is cumbersome. If a larger capacity battery is used as a countermeasure, the burden on workers to attach and detach the battery becomes significant.

[0008] As a countermeasure, for example, a wire insulated from its surroundings can be stretched vertically within the elevator shaft over a range longer than the range of vertical movement of the counterweight, such that the wire does not come into contact with the metal ring attached to the counterweight. By supplying power from a power source to a relay electrically connected to the wire, a mechanism can be constructed that reliably detects the occurrence of counterweight detachment with a simple configuration, based on the fall of the relay caused by the wire coming into contact with the metal ring due to the counterweight detachment.

[0009] However, in some locations where elevators are installed, it may not be possible to tension a wire that extends beyond the range of vertical movement of the counterweight, a so-called "vertical through-wire," and in such cases, the aforementioned problems still existed.

[0010] The purpose of this invention is to provide a counterweight detachment detection device that can reliably detect counterweight detachment with a simple configuration, thereby solving the problems of the conventional technology described above, and that can reduce the burden on workers in terms of installation and maintenance. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] To solve the above-mentioned problems and achieve the objective, the counterweight detachment detection device according to the present invention is a counterweight detachment detection device that detects when a counterweight that slides along a counter rail provided in the hoistway of an elevator detaches from the counter rail, comprising a magnetic sensor provided on the counter rail and a magnet provided on the counterweight that moves in and out of the detection range of the magnetic sensor as the counterweight slides along the counter rail, and is characterized in that it detects when the counterweight has detached from the counter rail based on the output of the magnetic sensor.

[0012] Furthermore, the counterweight detachment detection device according to the present invention is characterized in that, in the above invention, it comprises a photoelectric sensor provided on the counter rail, the output of which changes as the counterweight passes through the detection range due to the sliding of the counterweight along the counter rail, and the device detects that the counterweight has detached from the counter rail based on at least one of the output of the magnetic sensor and the output of the photoelectric sensor.

[0013] Furthermore, the counterweight detachment detection device according to this invention is characterized in that, in the above invention, the detection range is a position where the elevator car and the counterweight are adjacent in the horizontal direction. [Effects of the Invention]

[0014] The counterweight detachment detection device according to this invention has the effect of reliably detecting counterweight detachment with a simple configuration, and reducing the burden on workers for installation and maintenance. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0015] [Figure 1] This is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of an elevator. [Figure 2] This is an explanatory diagram showing the hardware configuration of an elevator. [Figure 3] This is an explanatory diagram (part 1) showing the configuration of a counterweight detachment detection device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] This is an explanatory diagram (part 2) showing the configuration of a counterweight detachment detection device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] This is an explanatory diagram (part 3) showing the configuration of a counterweight detachment detection device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] This is an explanatory diagram (part 4) showing the configuration of a counterweight detachment detection device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7]It is an explanatory diagram (Part 5) showing the configuration of the counterweight detachment detection device according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] It is an explanatory diagram showing the situation of counterweight detachment. [Figure 9] It is a flowchart showing an example of the processing procedure of the control panel.

Embodiments for Carrying out the Invention

[0016] Hereinafter, a preferred embodiment of the counterweight detachment detection device according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0017] (Configuration of Elevator) First, the configuration of the elevator will be described. FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of the elevator. As shown in FIG. 1, the elevator 100 can be realized by, for example, a rope type (traction type) elevator. The elevator 100 is installed, for example, in a building such as a multi-story building.

[0018] The elevator 100 includes a cage (riding cage) 101 for carrying people and goods. One cage 101 is provided for each elevator 100. The cage 101 is provided in a hoistway (not shown) that penetrates each floor in the building along the vertical direction, that is, the moving direction of the cage 101.

[0019] In the hoistway, guide rails (not shown) for guiding the lifting position of the cage 101 are provided at positions on both sides of the cage 101 where the user faces the elevator 100 directly at the landing 110. The guide rails can be realized by, for example, steel materials having a substantially T-shaped cross section orthogonal to the length direction. The guide rails are arranged such that the substantially T-shaped foot portions (rail portions) face each other with the cage 101 in between, and are fixed in a state of standing upright with the longitudinal direction along the vertical direction.

[0020] Furthermore, the elevator shaft is equipped with a shock absorber 102 at its bottom to mitigate the impact in the event that the elevator car 101 falls and collides with the bottom surface of the elevator shaft. The shock absorber 102 may be a spring-type shock absorber 102 that uses the elastic force of a spring to mitigate the impact, or it may be an oil-filled shock absorber 102 that uses hydraulic resistance to mitigate the impact. The shock absorber 102 may also be provided on the ceiling surface of the elevator shaft.

[0021] The cage 101 is connected to one end of the rope 103. The rope 103 is stretched in a well-bench fashion over a pulley (not shown) and a sheave 104a of a hoisting machine (traction machine) 104, with the other end connected to a counterweight 105. Specifically, the rope 103 can be made of, for example, a steel wire.

[0022] The counterweight 105 may be positioned to the side of the car 101 when a user is facing the elevator 100 at the landing 110 (side counter type), or it may be positioned behind the car 101 when a user is facing the elevator 100 at the landing 110 (back counter type).

[0023] In addition to the guide rails installed on the sides of the elevator car 101, the elevator shaft is also equipped with guide rails for the counterweight 105 (see reference numeral 301 in Figure 3) to guide the upward and downward movement of the counterweight 105. The guide rails for the counterweight 105 (hereinafter referred to as "counter rails") are provided on both sides of the counterweight 105 when the counterweight 105 is facing the elevator car 101.

[0024] In a rope-type elevator 100, the hoisting machine 104 is installed, for example, in a machine room located at the top of the elevator 100. The hoisting machine 104 can be installed at the top of the elevator 100 regardless of whether there is a machine room or not. Alternatively, if the elevator 100 is of a type without a machine room, the hoisting machine 104 may be installed at the bottom of the elevator 100.

[0025] The hoisting machine 104 is controlled, for example, using an inverter, and is driven and controlled by the control panel 106 to stop rotating at the floor where the elevator car 101 is to be stopped. In a rope-type elevator 100, the elevator car 101 is raised and lowered by utilizing the frictional force (traction) between the rope 103 and the pulley, which is generated by driving the hoisting machine 104.

[0026] The hoisting machine 104 is equipped with an encoder (not shown), and the control panel 106 can determine the rotational speed and rotational position of the hoisting machine 104 based on the output signal from the encoder. The encoder may be an absolute encoder or an incremental encoder. The encoder may be installed when the elevator 100 is installed, or it may be added later.

[0027] The elevator 100 is also equipped with an electromagnetic brake 107, a governor machine 108, a limit switch 109, and the like. The electromagnetic brake 107 has a coil and uses the electromagnetic force generated by energizing the coil, which is driven and controlled by the control panel 106, to stop the rotation of the hoisting machine 104. The electromagnetic brake 107 can maintain the state in which the rotation of the hoisting machine 104 is stopped.

[0028] The electromagnetic brake 107 stops the rotation of the hoisting machine 104 when the power supply is interrupted due to a power outage or the like. Specifically, the electromagnetic brake 107 can be a non-excitation type electromagnetic brake 107 that operates using the force of a spring to stop the rotation of the hoisting machine 104 when the power supply to the coil is cut off, such as during a power outage.

[0029] The governor 108 detects when the cage 101 exceeds its speed limit. The governor 108 can be implemented, for example, by a centrifugal governor equipped with a governor rope 108a, a governor pulley 108b, a rotor (not shown), etc. In such a governor 108, the governor rope 108a is linked to the movement of the cage 101. The governor pulley 108b rotates in conjunction with the movement of the governor rope 108a.

[0030] The rotor operates in accordance with the rotational speed of the governor pulley 108b, that is, the magnitude of the centrifugal force caused by the rotation of the governor pulley 108b. Specifically, the rotor operates to open towards the outer circumference of the governor pulley 108b when the rotational speed of the governor pulley 108b is fast, and operates to close towards the inner circumference of the governor pulley 108b when the rotational speed of the governor pulley 108b is slow.

[0031] The limit switch 109 is equipped with a switch lever (not shown) that switches between supplying and cutting off power to the hoisting machine 104. The switch lever is normally positioned to supply power to the hoisting machine 104, and when the rotor of the governor 108 is biased, it is displaced to a position that cuts off the power supply to the hoisting machine 104.

[0032] The rotor of the speed governor 108 biases the switch lever so that when the lifting speed of the cage 101 exceeds a certain speed relative to the rated speed, the switch lever is displaced to a position that cuts off the power supply to the hoisting machine 104. This allows the operation of the hoisting machine 104 to stop and the cage 101 to stop when the cage 101 exceeds its speed limit.

[0033] Furthermore, the elevator 100 may be equipped with an emergency stop device. The emergency stop device forcibly stops the operation of the car 101 when the operation of the car 101 and the operation of the governor rope 108a are different, that is, when the car 101 is operating even though the governor rope 108a has stopped. The emergency stop device can be easily implemented using various known technologies, so a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0034] The cage 101 is equipped with a door 101a. The cage 101 also includes a motor for opening and closing the door 101a (door opening / closing motor: see reference numeral 213 in Figure 2), a door opening / closing sensor (not shown) for detecting the open / closed state of the door 101a, and an operation panel 101b. The door opening / closing motor is driven and controlled by the control panel 106 to open and close the door 101a.

[0035] The door open / close sensor changes its output depending on whether door 101a or door 110a is open or closed, based on the state of the safety shoe located between door 101a and door 110a. The door open / close sensor can be implemented using, for example, a microswitch or a photoelectric sensor. The door open / close sensor is connected to the control panel 106 via wiring, and the signal output from the door open / close sensor is input to the control panel 106 via this wiring.

[0036] Each landing 110 in the elevator shaft is equipped with a door 110a. The doors 110a at each landing 110 are locked by a device called an interlock (not shown in the diagram). The interlock engages with the opening and closing mechanism of the doors 101a of the elevator car 101 and releases the lock only when the door opening / closing motor is driven while the elevator 100 has arrived at a stopping floor. This allows only the doors 110a at the landing 110 on the floor where the elevator car 101 is located to be opened and closed in conjunction with each other.

[0037] Furthermore, plates (not shown in the illustration) used for detecting the position of the elevator car 101 are provided at each floor-level position (landing) 110 in the elevator shaft. Multiple plates are provided along the length of the elevator shaft, i.e., in the vertical direction. The elevator car 101 is equipped with an elevator car position detection sensor 101c used to detect the position of the elevator car 101 using the plates.

[0038] The cage position detection sensor 101c is installed, for example, on the outside of the cage 101, such as on the ceiling or walls of the cage 101. The cage position detection sensor 101c comprises a light-emitting element and a light-receiving element positioned opposite the light-emitting element. The cage position detection sensor 101c outputs a signal according to the light-receiving state of the light-receiving element. Specifically, as the cage 101 moves, the cage position detection sensor 101c outputs different signals to the control panel 106 depending on whether a plate is positioned between the light-emitting element and the light-receiving element, or whether the light-receiving element is receiving light emitted by the light-emitting element.

[0039] The plate is positioned to block light between the light-emitting element and the light-receiving element of the car position detection sensor 101c when the car 101 is located at the landing position (landing 110) on each floor. The plate may also be positioned to block light between the light-emitting element and the light-receiving element of the car position detection sensor 101c when the car 101 passes a position a predetermined distance away from the stopping position on each floor. This makes it possible to determine the position of the car 101 before it reaches the target floor.

[0040] Each elevator landing 110 is equipped with an operation panel 111 that includes an elevator landing call button 111a and a display 111b that shows the floor level where the elevator car 101 is located. Each operation panel 111 is equipped with a control board 111c for the operation panel 111, and is connected to the control panel 106 via the control board 111c.

[0041] The control panel 101b, various sensors including the cage position detection sensor 101c and door opening / closing sensor, the hoisting machine 104, electromagnetic brake 107, speed governor 108, limit switch 109, and the control panel 111 (control board 111c) are all connected to the control panel 106 via cable 112.

[0042] Furthermore, elevator 100 is equipped with an earthquake detector (see reference numeral 210 in Figure 2). The earthquake detector can be, for example, an electronic earthquake detector using an acceleration sensor that detects initial tremors (P-waves), main tremors (S-waves), and long-period earthquakes using a capacitance sensor. The earthquake detector detects acceleration caused by an earthquake in advance and outputs a signal to the control panel 106 according to the detection result. A mechanical earthquake detector may also be used.

[0043] (Hardware configuration of elevator 100) Next, the hardware configuration of elevator 100 will be described. Figure 2 is an explanatory diagram showing the hardware configuration of elevator 100.

[0044] As shown in Figure 2, the control panel 106 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 201, memory 202, communication interface 203, input terminals 204, output terminals 205, and the like. The various parts 201 to 205 that make up the control panel 106 are connected by a bus 200.

[0045] The CPU 201 controls each part of the elevator 100 and is in charge of controlling the elevator 100 as a whole. The memory 202 stores programs and data used to control each part of the elevator 100. Specifically, the memory 202 stores, for example, a program to be executed when the counterweight 105 comes off the counter rail (see Figure 9), as well as the first threshold and the second threshold.

[0046] The first threshold can be set to an acceleration (gal) value that is greater than or equal to the extra-low gal value but less than the low gal value. Specifically, for example, in the case of an elevator 100 installed in a building 60m high, an acceleration value of 80 gals or more but less than 150 gals can be set as the first threshold. Alternatively, the first threshold may specify the type of wave (acceleration) to be detected, such as a P-wave (initial tremor) or an S-wave that is greater than or equal to the extra-low gal value but less than the low gal value.

[0047] The second threshold is an acceleration higher than the first threshold, and can be set to an acceleration value (gal) commonly referred to as a "high gal wave." Specifically, for example, the second threshold can be set to an acceleration value equivalent to that of an earthquake with a seismic intensity of 4 or higher. More specifically, for example, in the case of elevator 100 installed in a building 60m high, accelerations such as 150 gals and 200 gals can be set as the second threshold.

[0048] Communication I / F203 is connected to a communication network such as the Internet. This allows elevator 100 to communicate (data communication) with devices connected to the communication network, such as a management server computer, via communication I / F203.

[0049] The communication interface 203 can be implemented, for example, by a wireless communication interface such as a mobile phone line (e.g., LTE (Long Term Evolution)). Alternatively, the communication interface 203 may be implemented by a wired communication interface such as a modem or LAN adapter.

[0050] The communication interface 203 may be connected to a public voice network, which is a network for voice communication, in addition to the communication network for data communication. This allows a person inside the elevator car 101 of the elevator 100 to communicate directly with an operator of the elevator maintenance company.

[0051] Input terminal 204 is a connection terminal (hardware interface) that connects the control panel 106 to various parts of the elevator 100. It receives signals output from various parts of the elevator 100 and outputs the received signals to the CPU 201. Input terminal 204 receives signals that various parts of the elevator 100 output to the control panel 106, so-called "up signals". The connection between input terminal 204 and the various parts of the elevator 100 may be wired or wireless.

[0052] Input terminals 204 are provided for each part of the elevator 100 that outputs a signal to the CPU 201, such as the hoisting machine 104, the control panels 101b and 111, the car position detection sensor 101c, the earthquake sensor 210, the magnetic sensor 211, the photoelectric sensor 212, the door opening / closing motor 213, and the door opening / closing sensor. The control panel 106 may, for example, receive signals from multiple control panels 111 installed on each floor using a single input terminal.

[0053] The output terminal 205 is a connection terminal (hardware interface) that connects the control panel 106 to various parts of the elevator 100, and outputs signals output from the CPU 201 to the corresponding parts of the elevator 100. The output terminal 205 outputs signals that are driven and controlled by the CPU 201, so-called "down signals". The connection between the output terminal 205 and the parts of the elevator 100 may be wired or wireless.

[0054] Output terminals 205 are provided for each part of the elevator 100 that operates in response to signals output from the CPU 201, such as the hoisting machine 104, electromagnetic brake 107, control panels 101b and 111, limit switches 109, and door opening / closing motor 213. The control panel 106 may output signals indicating the floor on which the elevator car 101 is located, which are displayed on the control panel 101b or the display unit 111b, to each part from a single output terminal 205.

[0055] (Configuration of the counterweight detachment detection device) Next, the configuration of the counterweight detachment detection device according to the embodiment of this invention will be described. Figures 3 to 7 are explanatory diagrams showing the configuration of the counterweight detachment detection device according to the embodiment of this invention. Figure 3 schematically shows the counterweight detachment detection device according to the embodiment of this invention. Figure 4 shows the view from arrow A in Figure 3. Figure 5 shows the view from arrow B in Figure 3. Figure 6 shows the view from arrow C in Figure 3. Figure 7 shows the positional relationship between the counterweight detachment detection device according to the embodiment of this invention and the basket.

[0056] As shown in Figures 3 to 7, the counter rail 301 can be realized, for example, by a steel material whose cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction is approximately T-shaped. The counter rail 301 is arranged with the counter weight 105 in between, with the approximately T-shaped leg portions (rail portions) facing each other, and is fixed in an upright position with its longitudinal direction aligned with the vertical direction.

[0057] The counterweight 105 comprises a frame 302 and counterweight blocks 303. The other end of the rope 103 described above is connected to the frame 302. The frame 302 holds multiple counterweight blocks 303. The frame 302 holds counterweight blocks 303 of a weight corresponding to the weight of the basket 101 and the maximum load capacity.

[0058] In the frame 302, guide shoes 304 are provided at positions facing the counter rail 301. The guide shoes 304 have a roughly U-shaped cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. The guide shoes 304 are provided on both sides of the counterweight 105, leaving the groove portion open. Multiple guide shoes 304 are provided on the same plane of the counterweight 105 (in this embodiment, two along the vertical direction).

[0059] The counterweight 105 is positioned such that the portion of the guide shoe 304 that forms the groove is fitted into the rail portion of the counter rail 301. The counterweight 105 moves up and down in the opposite direction to the up and down movement of the basket 101 in response to the operation of the hoisting machine 104. That is, when the basket 101 rises, the counterweight 105 descends, and when the basket 101 descends, the counterweight 105 rises.

[0060] When the counterweight 105 moves up and down, the guide shoe 304 slides along the counter rail 301 while being fitted onto the counter rail 301. This prevents the counterweight 105 from swinging away from the counter rail 301 during its up and down movement, and ensures that the counterweight 105 moves reliably along the guide rail.

[0061] The counterweight detachment detection device 300 according to this embodiment of the invention comprises a magnetic sensor 211, a photoelectric sensor 212, and a magnet 305. The magnet 305 is attached to the frame 302 of the counterweight 105. The magnet 305 is mounted in a position that does not face the counter rail 301.

[0062] The magnets 305 are provided on two surfaces of the frame 302 that face the counter rails 301, with the counterweight 105 in between. Additionally, two magnets 305 are provided on the upper and lower sides of each of the two surfaces that face the counter rails 301.

[0063] Furthermore, the magnet 305 is provided with a distance wider than the width of the counter rail 301. That is, the magnet 305 is provided on the frame 302 on the side of the counter rail 301 that is closer to the cage 101, and on the side of the counter rail 301 that is opposite to the cage 101.

[0064] The magnet 305 can be any known type, such as a ferrite magnet or a neodymium magnet. Alternatively, the magnet 305 may be an electromagnet. If an electromagnet is used, power may be supplied by a battery or via a wire.

[0065] Brackets 306 and 307 are fixed to the counter rail 301. Brackets 306 and 307 are provided on each of the opposing counter rails 301 with the counterweight 105 in between. Brackets 306 and 307 have a roughly L-shaped plate form. Brackets 306 and 307 are longer than the width dimension of the counter rail 301, and both ends in the longitudinal direction face the movement trajectory of the counterweight 105 as it moves along the counter rail 301.

[0066] The magnetic sensor 211 detects the magnetic field of the magnet 305, converts it into an electrical signal, and outputs the converted electrical signal to the control panel 201. The magnetic sensor 211 may output the electrical signal to the control panel 201 via a wired connection or wirelessly. Various known types of magnetic sensors can be used, such as a Hall sensor that utilizes the Hall effect or an MR sensor that utilizes the magnetoresistive (MR) effect.

[0067] The magnetic sensor 211 is supported by brackets 306 and 307. The magnetic sensor 211 is positioned so that its detection range overlaps with the movement trajectory of the magnet 305, which moves in conjunction with the sliding of the counterweight 105 along the counter rail 301. Specifically, the magnetic sensor 211 can be positioned, for example, on brackets 306 and 307, opposite the movement trajectory of the magnet 305, which moves in conjunction with the sliding of the counterweight 105 along the counter rail 301.

[0068] The magnetic sensor 211 is provided on bracket 306 on the side of the counter rail 301 toward the car 101, and on the side of the counter rail 301 toward the car 101. The magnetic sensor 211 is also provided on bracket 307 on either the side of the counter rail 301 toward the car 101, or on the side of the counter rail 301 toward the car 101. The magnetic sensor 211 may also be provided on bracket 307 on the side of the counter rail 301 toward the car 101, and on the side of the counter rail 301 toward the car 101.

[0069] The photoelectric sensor 212 is supported by a bracket 307. The photoelectric sensor 212 comprises a light-emitting element 212a and a light-receiving element 212b. The photoelectric sensor 212 outputs an electrical signal to the control panel 201 based on the amount of light emitted by the light-emitting element 212a and the amount of light received by the light-receiving element 212b. The photoelectric sensor 212 may output the electrical signal to the control panel 201 via a wired connection or wirelessly.

[0070] The photoelectric sensor 212 can be a transmissive type in which, for example, the light-emitting element 212a and the light-receiving element 212b are separate components, and the light-receiving element 212b is positioned to receive the light emitted by the light-emitting element 212a. When using a transmissive type photoelectric sensor 212, the light-emitting element 212a is attached to one of the opposing counter rails 301 with the counterweight 105 in between, and the light-receiving element 212b is attached to the other. Also, when using a transmissive type photoelectric sensor 212, the light-emitting element 212a and the light-receiving element 212b are positioned so that the optical axis between the light-emitting element 212a and the light-receiving element 212b overlaps with the movement trajectory of the counterweight 105 as it slides along the counter rail 301.

[0071] As a result, as the counterweight 105 slides along the counter rail 301, the optical axis between the light-emitting element 212a and the light-receiving element 212b is blocked when the counterweight 105 passes between the light-emitting element 212a and the light-receiving element 212b, and the amount of light received by the light-receiving element 212b decreases. The photoelectric sensor 212 outputs a signal to the control panel 106 corresponding to the increase or decrease in the amount of light received by the light-receiving element 212b.

[0072] The through-beam photoelectric sensor 212 can achieve a long detection distance of 10m or more. Therefore, when using the through-beam photoelectric sensor 212, flexibility in the installation location of the photoelectric sensor 212 can be ensured. Specifically, it becomes possible to install the photoelectric sensor 212 not only on the counter rail 301 but also on surrounding components.

[0073] In this embodiment, an example has been described in which the photoelectric sensor 212 is provided on bracket 307, but it is not limited to this. The photoelectric sensor 212 may be provided on both bracket 306 and bracket 307.

[0074] The photoelectric sensor 212 is not limited to being configured such that the optical axis between the light-emitting element 212a and the light-receiving element 212b is parallel to the horizontal direction. For example, the light-emitting element 212a and the light-receiving element 212b may be arranged so that they overlap with the movement trajectory of the counterweight 105 accompanying the sliding along the counter rail 301, and the optical axis is inclined with respect to the horizontal direction. Specifically, for example, the optical axis of the photoelectric sensor 212 can be inclined with respect to the horizontal direction by arranging the light-emitting element 212a and the light-receiving element 212b at different positions (heights) in the vertical direction.

[0075] The photoelectric sensor 212 is not limited to a transmissive type in which the light-emitting element 212a and the light-receiving element 212b are separate components, but may also be a diffuse reflection type or a reflector reflection type (retroreflective type) in which the light-emitting element 212a and the light-receiving element 212b are integrated. When using a diffuse reflection type or a reflector reflection type photoelectric sensor 212, the photoelectric sensor 212 only needs to be attached to one of the opposing counter rails 301 with the counterweight 105 in between, thereby simplifying the installation work and reducing the time required for installation work. When using a diffuse reflection type or a reflector reflection type photoelectric sensor 212, as with the transmissive type photoelectric sensor 212, the optical axis of the light emitted by the light-emitting element 212a may be tilted with respect to the horizontal direction.

[0076] In the diffuse reflection type photoelectric sensor 212, the light (diffuse light) emitted by the light-emitting element 212a is not received by the light-receiving element 212b if there is no counterweight 105 between the light-emitting element 212a and the light-receiving element 212b, and is received by the light-receiving element 212b when it is reflected by the counterweight 105 passing between the light-emitting element 212a and the light-receiving element 212b.

[0077] In the reflector-reflection type photoelectric sensor 212, a reflector is provided at the position where the light emitted by the light-emitting element 212a is irradiated onto the other of the two opposing counter rails 301 with a counterweight 105 in between. In the reflector-reflection type photoelectric sensor 212, if there is no counterweight 105 between the light-emitting element 212a and the light-receiving element 212b, the light emitted by the light-emitting element 212a is reflected by the reflector and received by the light-receiving element 212b. When the counterweight 105 passes between the light-emitting element 212a and the reflector, the light emitted by the light-emitting element 212a is blocked by the counterweight 105, and the amount of light received by the light-receiving element 212b decreases.

[0078] Conventionally, for elevators that do not have communication capabilities with external devices such as remote management server computers at the time of installation, there is a technology that enables remote monitoring of the elevator via a remote monitoring support device that has been added after installation by connecting a remote monitoring support device equipped with communication capabilities to the elevator. In elevators to which such a remote monitoring support device is connected, the electrical signals output by the magnetic sensor 211 and the photoelectric sensor 212 may be output to the remote monitoring support device.

[0079] As shown in Figure 7, the magnetic sensor 211 and the photoelectric sensor 212 are installed in positions adjacent to the elevator car 101 and the counterweight 105 in the horizontal direction. That is, the magnetic sensor 211 and the photoelectric sensor 212 can be installed, for example, in the middle of the movement range of the car 101 and the counterweight 105.

[0080] Specifically, the magnetic sensor 211 is positioned opposite the magnet 305 when the counterweight 105 is in the intermediate position and has not become detached. Furthermore, the photoelectric sensor 212 is positioned to detect the presence of the counterweight 105 when the counterweight 105 is in the intermediate position and has not become detached.

[0081] This allows the counterweight detachment detection operation, described later, to be performed at the intermediate position based on the output signals from the magnetic sensor 211 and the photoelectric sensor 212. By performing the counterweight detachment detection operation at the intermediate position, the vibration of the rope 103 can be minimized while the counterweight detachment detection operation is performed, and even if the counterweight detachment occurs, the occurrence of secondary damage can be reduced.

[0082] (Situation where the counterweight is missing) Next, we will explain the situation of counterweight detachment. Figure 8 is an explanatory diagram showing the situation of counterweight detachment. Several patterns of counterweight detachment are expected, as follows.

[0083] <1> The upper guide shoe 304 is fitted to the counter rail 301, and the lower guide shoe 304 is detached from the counter rail 301 towards the basket 101 (Figure 8(a)). This state can be further imagined as being detached from one of the opposing counter rails 301 with the counter weight 105 in between, detached from the other counter rail 301, or detached from both counter rails 301.

[0084] <2> The upper guide shoe 304 is fitted into the counter rail 301, and the lower guide shoe 304 is detached from the counter rail 301 on the opposite side from the basket 101 (Figure 8(b)). In this state, however, it is also conceivable that the basket may be detached from one of the opposing counter rails 301 with the counterweight 105 in between, from the other counter rail 301, or from both counter rails 301.

[0085] <3> The upper guide shoe 304 is detached from the counter rail 301 on the side opposite the basket 101, and the lower guide shoe 304 is fitted into the counter rail 301 (Figure 8(c)). In this state, however, it is also conceivable that the counter shoe 304 may be detached from one of the opposing counter rails 301 with the counterweight 105 in between, detached from the other counter rail 301, or detached from both counter rails 301.

[0086] <4> The upper guide shoe 304 is detached from the counter rail 301 towards the basket 101, and the lower guide shoe 304 is fitted into the counter rail 301 (Figure 8(d)). In this state, however, it is also conceivable that the guide shoe 304 may be detached from one of the opposing counter rails 301 with the counterweight 105 in between, detached from the other counter rail 301, or detached from both counter rails 301.

[0087] <5> The upper guide shoe 304 and the lower guide shoe 304 are detached from the counter rail 301 toward the basket 101 (not shown in the diagram). In this state, further possibilities include the shoes being detached from one of the opposing counter rails 301 with the counterweight 105 in between, detached from the other counter rail 301, or detached from both counter rails 301.

[0088] <6> The upper guide shoe 304 and the lower guide shoe 304 are detached from the counter rail 301 on the side opposite to the basket 101 (not shown in the illustration). In this state, further possibilities include the counter rail being detached from one of the opposing counter rails 301 with the counter weight 105 in between, detached from the other counter rail 301, or detached from both counter rails 301.

[0089] In this embodiment of the counterweight detachment detection device, if the counter rail detachment has not occurred, all magnetic sensors 211 detect the magnetism of the magnet 305 when the counterweight 105 is positioned in the intermediate position. This makes it possible to determine that the counterweight has not detached.

[0090] Furthermore, in this embodiment of the counterweight detachment detection device, if the counter rail detachment has not occurred, the photoelectric sensor 212 detects the counterweight 105 when it is positioned in an intermediate position. This makes it possible to determine that the counterweight has not detached.

[0091] In this embodiment, the counterweight detachment detection device has a magnetic sensor 211 and a magnet 305 provided on the side of the counter rail 301 toward the cage 101 and on the side of the counter rail 301 toward the cage 101. Therefore, based on the electrical signals output from each magnetic sensor 211, it is possible to detect whether the counterweight 105 has detached toward the cage 101 or toward the opposite side of the cage 101 relative to the counter rail 301.

[0092] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the counterweight detachment detection device is equipped with magnetic sensors 211 on brackets 306 and 307, respectively, and magnets 305 on the upper and lower sides of the frame 302, respectively. Therefore, based on the electrical signals output from each magnetic sensor 211, it is possible to detect whether the upper guide shoe 304 has detached from the counter rail 301, or whether the lower guide shoe 304 has detached from the counter rail 301.

[0093] (Processing procedure for control panel 106) Next, the processing procedure of the control panel 106 will be described. Figure 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing procedure of the control panel 106. The processing shown in the flowchart of Figure 9 is realized by the CPU 201 executing various programs stored in the memory 202 based on signals output from each part of the elevator 100. By executing the processing shown in the flowchart of Figure 9, the counterweight detachment detection operation can be performed.

[0094] As shown in Figure 9, the control panel 106 first determines, based on the output signal from the seismic sensor 210, whether or not it has detected an acceleration exceeding a first threshold caused by an earthquake or the like (step S901). In step S901, for example, it determines whether or not it has detected an S-wave exceeding the first threshold. Alternatively, in step S901, it may also determine whether or not it has detected a P-wave (initial tremor).

[0095] If no acceleration exceeding the first threshold is detected in step S901 (step S901: No), the system remains in standby mode. On the other hand, if an acceleration exceeding the first threshold is detected in step S901 (step S901: Yes), the hoisting machine 104 and electromagnetic brake 107 are driven (step S902) to bring the cage 101 to the nearest floor. Then, the door opening / closing motor 213 is driven (step S903) to open the doors 101a and 110a.

[0096] In step S902 or step S903, in parallel with the process of lowering the car 101 to the nearest floor or opening the doors 101a and 110a, the control panel 101b or display unit 111b may be used to notify that an earthquake has occurred and the elevator 100 will be shut down.

[0097] Next, based on the output signal from the seismic sensor 210, it is determined whether or not an acceleration exceeding a second threshold has been detected (step S904). In step S904, for example, it is determined whether or not an S-wave exceeding the second threshold has been detected. If, in step S904, an acceleration exceeding the second threshold has not been detected (step S904: No), it is determined whether or not there is a user inside the cage 101 (step S905).

[0098] In step S905, it is determined whether or not there is a user inside the basket 101, for example, based on the video from the surveillance camera or the weight of the basket 101. If there is a user inside the basket 101 in step S905 (step S905: Yes), the system waits until the user is no longer inside the basket 101.

[0099] On the other hand, in step S905, if there is no user in the basket 101 (step S905: No), the hoisting machine 104 and electromagnetic brake 107 are driven (step S906) to move the counterweight 105 to an intermediate position. Then, based on the output signals from the magnetic sensor 211 and the photoelectric sensor 212, it is determined whether or not the counterweight has come off (step S907). In step S907, if the counterweight has come off (step S907: Yes), the process proceeds to step S911.

[0100] In step S907, if no counterweight detachment has occurred (step S907: No), an automatic diagnostic operation is performed (step S908). The automatic diagnostic operation in step S908 is performed after a predetermined time has elapsed since the earthquake sensor 210 was activated in step S901: Yes, and if there is no further activation of the earthquake sensor 210 or other safety devices.

[0101] Specifically, in step S908, for example, the elevator car 101 is driven from the top floor to the lowest floor, and whether or not there is an abnormality in the operation of the elevator 100 is diagnosed based on whether or not the car 101 traveled without any abnormalities between the top floor and the lowest floor. Alternatively, in step S907, for example, the operation data when the car 101 is driven from the top floor to the lowest floor may be compared with the operation data during normal operation to diagnose whether or not there is an abnormality in the operation of the elevator 100.

[0102] Furthermore, in step S908, for example, an automatic diagnostic operation may be performed while the car 101 is traveling at a low speed, and if no abnormality occurs, the operation of the elevator 100 may be diagnosed by checking whether the car 101 traveled without any abnormality from the top floor to the bottom floor while traveling at a high speed.

[0103] In step S908, the automatic diagnostic operation sets a threshold, such as a second threshold, which is the upper limit of the magnitude of the earthquake shaking. Based on the output signal from the earthquake sensor 210, it determines whether or not an acceleration exceeding the second threshold has been detected, thereby confirming whether the hoisting machine 104, control panel 106, etc., have overturned or moved from their original positions. In addition, the automatic diagnostic operation in step S908 diagnoses whether various equipment installed in the hoistway and long objects such as ropes 103 and various cables including tail cords have become entangled, based on the torque and current of the hoisting machine 104, for example.

[0104] Furthermore, the automatic diagnostic operation in step S908 may diagnose whether a collision has occurred between the cage 101 and the counterweight 105, for example, based on the torque and current of the hoisting machine 104. Regarding snagging between various equipment installed in the hoistway and long objects, and collisions between the cage 101 and the counterweight 105, a dedicated sensor may be used for diagnosis.

[0105] Furthermore, the automatic diagnostic operation in step S908 may, for example, diagnose whether or not there is an abnormality in various devices installed in the elevator shaft of the elevator car 101, such as the elevator car position detection sensor 101c, based on the landing operation during the automatic diagnostic operation. Alternatively, the automatic diagnostic operation in step S908 may, for example, operate the door opening / closing motor 211 while the elevator car 101 is stopped at the landing 110, and open and close the doors 101a and 110a to diagnose whether or not there is an abnormality in the doors 101a and 110a.

[0106] Then, based on the results of the automatic diagnostic operation in step S908, it is determined whether there are any abnormalities in the results of the automatic diagnostic operation other than whether or not the counter rail 301 has been derailed (step S909). If there is an abnormality in the results of the automatic diagnostic operation in step S909 (step S909: No), the process proceeds to step S911.

[0107] On the other hand, if there are no abnormalities in the results of other automatic diagnostic operations in step S909 (step S909: Yes), a temporary recovery operation is performed (step S910). If the counterweight has not come off and there are no abnormalities in the results of other automatic diagnostic operations, in step S910, for example, the elevator 100 is temporarily restored (operated) until it can be inspected by a worker.

[0108] This prevents elevators that are not operationally impaired from being unavailable for extended periods. Furthermore, in step S910, for example, after determining that there are no abnormalities in the results of the automatic diagnostic operation, the elevator 100 may be made available for use for a predetermined period of time, and after the predetermined period has elapsed, the doors 101a and 110a may be closed at a predetermined floor to restrict its use.

[0109] On the other hand, if an acceleration exceeding the second threshold is detected in step S904 (step S904: Yes), a signal indicating that an acceleration exceeding the second threshold has been detected is output to the management server computer via the communication I / F 203 (step S911), and the series of processes is terminated. In step S911, a signal indicating the value of the detected acceleration may also be output.

[0110] This allows the management server computer to be notified of the possibility that the hoisting machine 104 or control panel 106 in the elevator 100 may have overturned or moved from their original position. Furthermore, if a signal indicating the detected acceleration value is output, the detected acceleration value can be used, for example, to determine the priority of dispatching subsequent workers.

[0111] In step S911, which follows step S907, a signal indicating that a counterweight has been lost is output to the management server computer via the communication I / F203 (step S911), and the series of processes is terminated.

[0112] In step S911, which follows step S909, a signal is output to the management server computer via the communication I / F203 indicating that no counterweight failure has occurred and that there are abnormalities in the results of other automatic diagnostic operations (step S911), and the series of processes is terminated.

[0113] In the case of an elevator connected to a remote monitoring support device, the output signals from the magnetic sensor 211 and the photoelectric sensor 212 may be output to the remote monitoring support device, and the remote monitoring support device may determine whether or not a counterweight detachment has occurred based on these output signals. If the remote monitoring support device detects that a counterweight detachment has occurred, it may output a signal to the management server computer indicating that a counterweight detachment has occurred.

[0114] In the above-described embodiment, a counterweight detachment detection device 300 in which the magnetic sensor 211 and the photoelectric sensor 212 are provided at an intermediate position was described, but the installation configuration of the magnetic sensor 211 and the photoelectric sensor 212 is not limited to this. The counterweight detachment detection device according to this invention may, for example, have the magnetic sensor 211 and the photoelectric sensor 212 provided at a location other than the intermediate position, and detect the detachment of the counterweight at a location other than the intermediate position.

[0115] Furthermore, the magnetic sensor 211 and the photoelectric sensor 212 may each detect counterweight detachment at different locations. For example, the magnetic sensor 211 may be installed at an intermediate position to detect counterweight detachment at that intermediate position, and the photoelectric sensor 212 may be installed at a location other than the intermediate position to detect counterweight detachment at a location other than the intermediate position.

[0116] The counterweight detachment detection device according to this invention may, for example, have multiple magnetic sensors 211 provided on the counter rail 301 along the vertical direction, and may detect counterweight detachment using the magnetic sensors 211 even at locations other than the intermediate position. Similarly, for example, multiple photoelectric sensors 212 may be provided on the counter rail 301 along the vertical direction, and may detect counterweight detachment using the photoelectric sensors 212 even at locations other than the intermediate position.

[0117] Furthermore, although the above-described embodiment describes a counterweight detachment detection device 300 in which the magnetic sensor 211 is provided on the counter rail 301 and the magnet 305 is provided on the frame 302, the invention is not limited to this. The counterweight detachment detection device according to this invention may also be configured in which the magnetic sensor 211 is provided on the frame 302 and the magnet 305 is provided on the counter rail 301.

[0118] In this type of counterweight detachment detection device, multiple magnets 305 may be provided on the counter rail 301 along the vertical direction. This allows the magnetic sensor 211 to detect the detachment of the counterweight at multiple locations other than the intermediate position.

[0119] Furthermore, although the above-described embodiment describes a counterweight detachment detection device 300 equipped with a magnetic sensor 211 and a photoelectric sensor 212, the invention is not limited thereto. The counterweight detachment detection device according to this invention may not include the photoelectric sensor 212 and may detect counterweight detachment using only the magnetic sensor 211. Alternatively, the counterweight detachment detection device according to this invention may not include the magnetic sensor 211 and may detect counterweight detachment using only the photoelectric sensor 212.

[0120] As described above, the counterweight detachment detection device 300 according to this embodiment of the present invention is a counterweight detachment detection device 300 that detects the detachment of a counterweight 105 that slides along a counter rail 301 provided in the hoistway of an elevator 100 from the counter rail 301, and comprises a magnetic sensor 211 provided on the counter rail 301 and a magnet 305 provided on the counterweight 105 that can move in and out of the detection range of the magnetic sensor 211 as the counterweight 105 slides along the counter rail 301, and is characterized in that it detects that the counterweight 105 has detached from the counter rail 301 based on the output of the magnetic sensor 211.

[0121] According to the counterweight detachment detection device 300 of this embodiment, during normal operation when the counterweight has not detached, the counterweight 105 slides along the counter rail 301. As the cage 101 is moved, the counterweight 105 slides along the counter rail 301, causing the magnet 305 to move in and out of the detection range of the magnetic sensor 211, and the output of the magnetic sensor 211 changes. On the other hand, when the counterweight has detached, the counterweight 105 does not slide along the counter rail 301, and even if the counterweight 105 moves as the cage 101 is moved, the output of the magnetic sensor 211 does not change, making it possible to detect that the counterweight has detached.

[0122] Furthermore, according to the counterweight detachment detection device 300 of this embodiment, the occurrence of counterweight detachment can be detected by attaching a magnetic sensor 211 to the counter rail 301 and a magnet 305 to the counterweight 105. This makes it possible to reliably detect counterweight detachment with a simple configuration, even when it is not possible to tension a wire that runs through from top to bottom as described above.

[0123] Thus, according to the counterweight detachment detection device 300 of this embodiment, counterweight detachment can be reliably detected with a simple configuration, and the burden on workers for installation and maintenance can be reduced.

[0124] Furthermore, the counterweight detachment detection device 300 according to this embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the magnetic sensor 211 is provided on the counter rail 301 on the side of the elevator car 101 of the elevator 100, with the counterweight 105 in between, and on the side of the counter rail 301 opposite to the side of the elevator car 101.

[0125] Furthermore, the counterweight detachment detection device 300 according to this embodiment of the invention is characterized in that multiple magnetic sensors 211 are provided in the vertical direction at intervals less than or equal to the vertical dimension of the counterweight 105.

[0126] According to such a counterweight detachment detection device 300, <1> ~ <6> Regardless of the conditions under which the counterweight detaches, as shown, the detachment can be accurately detected based on the position of the basket 101 and the detection results of which magnetic sensor 211 has changed output. This allows for reliable detection of counterweight detachment with a simple configuration and reduces the burden on workers for installation and maintenance.

[0127] Furthermore, the counterweight detachment detection device 300 according to this embodiment of the invention is equipped with a photoelectric sensor 212 provided on the counter rail 301, the output of which changes as the counterweight 105 passes through the detection range due to the sliding of the counterweight 105 along the counter rail 301, and is characterized in that it detects whether the counterweight 105 has detached from the counter rail 301 based on at least one of the output of the magnetic sensor 211 and the output of the photoelectric sensor 212.

[0128] According to the counterweight detachment detection device 300 of this embodiment, by using a magnetic sensor 211 and a photoelectric sensor 212 in combination to detect the occurrence of counterweight detachment, it is possible to reliably detect that counterweight detachment has occurred. This makes it possible to reliably detect counterweight detachment with a simple configuration and reduces the burden on workers for installation and maintenance.

[0129] Furthermore, the counterweight detachment detection device 300 according to this embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the detection range is the position where the elevator car 101 and the counterweight 105 are adjacent in the horizontal direction.

[0130] According to the counterweight detachment detection device 300 of this embodiment of the present invention, the counterweight detachment detection operation can be performed at a position where the cage 101 and the counterweight 105 are adjacent in the horizontal direction, i.e., at an intermediate position. This makes it possible to perform the counterweight detachment detection operation while minimizing vibration of the rope 103, and even if the counterweight detachment occurs, the occurrence of secondary damage can be reduced.

[0131] Furthermore, the counterweight detachment detection device according to this invention is a counterweight detachment detection device that detects the detachment of a counterweight 105 that slides along a counter rail 301 provided in the hoistway of an elevator 100 from the counter rail 301, and comprises only a photoelectric sensor provided on the counter rail 301 whose output changes as the counterweight 105 passes through the detection range due to sliding along the counter rail 301, and detects that the counterweight 105 has detached from the counter rail 301 based on the output of the photoelectric sensor.

[0132] With this counterweight detachment detection device, during normal operation when the counterweight has not detached, the counterweight 105 slides along the counter rail 301. As the cage 101 is moved, the counterweight 105 slides along the counter rail 301, and the output of the photoelectric sensor changes as the counterweight 105 passes through the detection range. On the other hand, when the counterweight has detached, the counterweight 105 does not slide along the counter rail 301, and even if the counterweight 105 moves as the cage 101 is moved, the output of the photoelectric sensor does not change. Therefore, it is possible to detect that the counterweight has detached.

[0133] Furthermore, with this counterweight detachment detection device, the occurrence of counterweight detachment can be detected by attaching a photoelectric sensor to the counter rail 301. This makes it possible to reliably detect the occurrence of counterweight detachment with a simple configuration, even when it is not possible to tension a wire that runs through the top and bottom as described above.

[0134] Furthermore, this counterweight detachment detection device uses a photoelectric sensor, which has a longer detection range compared to sensors such as magnetic sensors, to detect when a counterweight detachment occurs. This makes it possible to detect when a counterweight detachment has occurred even when it is difficult to install the device near the track of the counterweight 105 due to site conditions. As a result, it is possible to reliably detect when a counterweight detachment has occurred with a simple configuration, and to reduce the burden on workers involved in installation and maintenance.

[0135] Furthermore, such a counterweight detachment detection device can reliably detect when a counterweight has detached with a simple configuration, and can also reduce the burden on workers involved in installation and maintenance.

[0136] Furthermore, in the counterweight detachment detection device, similar to the magnetic sensor 211 in the embodiment described above, a photoelectric sensor 212 may be provided on the counter rail 301 on the elevator car 101 side and on the counter rail 301 on the opposite side from the elevator car 101 side, with the counterweight 105 in between.

[0137] According to such a counterweight detachment detection device, <1> ~ <6> Regardless of the conditions under which the counterweight detaches, as shown, the detachment can be accurately detected based on the position of the basket 101 and the detection results of which photoelectric sensor 212 has changed output. This allows for reliable detection of counterweight detachment with a simple configuration and reduces the burden on workers for installation and maintenance.

[0138] Furthermore, in such a counterweight detachment detection device, the photoelectric sensor 212 may have a pair of light-emitting elements 212a and light-receiving elements 212b positioned at different locations in the vertical direction.

[0139] With this type of counterweight detachment detection device, a single photoelectric sensor 212 can detect the occurrence of counterweight detachment in both the horizontal and vertical directions. Therefore, by installing one photoelectric sensor 212 on the side of the cage 101 and one on the opposite side of the cage 101 on the counter rail 301, it is possible to detect the occurrence of counterweight detachment on both sides. This reduces the workload on workers involved in installing the counterweight detachment detection device and lowers the cost of the counterweight detachment detection device. [Industrial applicability]

[0140] As described above, the counterweight detachment detection device according to this invention is useful as a counterweight detachment detection device for detecting the occurrence of counterweight detachment in an elevator, and is particularly suitable as a counterweight detachment detection device for detecting the occurrence of counterweight detachment in an elevator installed in an area where earthquakes are expected to occur. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0141] 100 Elevators 101 Basket 105 Counterweight 211 Magnetic Sensor 212 Photoelectric Sensor 300 Counterweight Detachment Detection Device 301 Counter rail 302 frames 303 Counterweight Block 304 Guide shoe 305 Magnet 306, 307 brackets

Claims

1. A counterweight detachment detection device for detecting the detachment of a counterweight that slides along a counter rail installed in the hoistway of an elevator, A magnetic sensor provided on the counter rail, A magnet is provided on the counterweight and is capable of moving in and out of the detection range of the magnetic sensor as the counterweight slides along the counter rail, Equipped with, A counterweight detachment detection device characterized by detecting that the counterweight has come off the counter rail based on the output of the magnetic sensor.

2. The counter rail is provided with a photoelectric sensor whose output changes as the counterweight passes through the detection range due to the sliding of the counterweight along the counter rail, The counterweight detachment detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that it detects whether the counterweight has come off the counter rail based on at least one of the output of the magnetic sensor and the output of the photoelectric sensor.

3. The counterweight detachment detection device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the detection range is a position where the elevator car and the counterweight are adjacent in the horizontal direction.

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