Stable components and their usage

Abstract

Embodiments herein relate to an elevator stabilization assembly for energy dissipation in an elevator component. The elevator stabilization assembly includes an actuator and a stabilizing device. The actuator is configured to move between a retracted position and an extended position. The stabilizing device includes an arm and a biasing member. The biasing member is coupled to the arm and biases the arm to move between a disengaged position and an engaged position. When the actuator is in the extended position, the arm moves to the engaged position when at least a portion of the arm contacts a fixed member of the elevator shaft. When the actuator is in the retracted position, the arm moves to the disengaged position such that at least a portion of the arm is no longer in contact with a fixed member of the elevator component.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This specification generally relates to a stabilizing device, and more specifically to an elevator stabilizing device that engages with a fixed component of an elevator shaft. Background Technology

[0002] Multiple suspension components, such as hoisting belts or hoisting ropes, attached to an elevator car within an elevator shaft or shaft are known to move the elevator car between floors in a building. These suspension components suspending the elevator car act as springs, and the spring effect becomes more pronounced as the length of the suspension component increases under tension between the traction pulley and the engagement point on the car. In applications where the elevator car travels a predetermined sufficient distance from the top pulley of the suspension component, the spring effect in the suspension components can become excessive and unacceptable. This distance, combined with the natural frequency of the elevator system, causes the elevator car to bounce or vibrate during the loading and unloading of passengers and goods within the elevator car. This bouncing or vibration can trigger malfunctions, cause leveling problems, and / or cause passenger discomfort.

[0003] Therefore, elevator stabilization components are needed to reduce the bouncing of elevator cars. Summary of the Invention

[0004] An elevator stabilizing assembly is provided to dissipate energy in the vertical direction, thereby eliminating, damping, or minimizing bouncing or vibration in a car suspended from suspension members of the elevator assembly. The elevator assembly has an elevator car, multiple suspension members, and fixed members of the hoistway (e.g., guide rails fixed to the hoistway wall), the elevator car being suspended from these suspension members to raise and lower the elevator car within the elevator hoistway or elevator shaft. The multiple suspension members move the elevator car between multiple positions within the hoistway, and the fixed members guide the elevator car between these multiple positions within the hoistway. The elevator stabilizing assembly includes an actuator and a stabilizing device. The actuator is configured to move between a retracted position and an extended position. The stabilizing device includes an arm and a biasing member. The biasing member is coupled to the arm and biases the arm to move the arm between a disengaged position and an engaged position. When the actuator moves to the extended position, the arm moves to the engaged position such that at least a portion of the arm or attached component contacts the fixed member of the elevator assembly. When the actuator moves from the extended position to the retracted position, the arm moves to the disengaged position, causing at least the portion of the arm that was in contact with the fixed member to move away from the fixed member, so that it is no longer in contact with the fixed member of the elevator assembly.

[0005] An elevator stabilizing assembly is provided for damping the movement of a car in an elevator assembly. The elevator assembly has an elevator car, multiple suspension members, and fixed members of the shaft (such as guide rails fixed to the shaft wall), the elevator car being suspended from these suspension members to raise and lower the elevator car within the elevator shaft or elevator crate. The multiple suspension members move the elevator car between multiple positions, and the fixed members or guide rails guide the elevator car between multiple positions within the shaft. The elevator stabilizing assembly includes an actuator and a stabilizing device. The actuator is configured to move between a retracted position and an extended position. The stabilizing device includes a pair of spaced-apart arms and a pair of engaging members. The pair of spaced-apart arms is pivotally biased by an offset member positioned between the pair of spaced-apart arms to move the pair of spaced-apart arms between a disengaged position and an engaged position. One of the pair of engaging members is coupled to one of the pair of spaced-apart arms, and the other of the pair of engaging members is coupled to the other of the pair of spaced-apart arms. The elevator stabilizing assembly is configured to move between an unstable state and a stable state.

[0006] A method is provided for operating an elevator stabilizing assembly to dampen the movement of the elevator assembly. The method includes the steps of: receiving, via a processing device, a signal indicating that one of the doors of the elevator car is not in a closed position, is about to open, is opening, or is in an open position; moving an actuator from a retracted position to an extended position via the processing device; and moving a pair of spaced-apart arms from a disengaged position to an engaged position via the actuator, such that a pair of engaging members coupled to the distal ends of the pair of spaced-apart arms contact a fixed member of the elevator assembly shaft to dampen the movement of the elevator car when the car stops at a floor in the shaft.

[0007] These and additional features provided in the embodiments described herein will be more fully understood in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and the following detailed description. Attached Figure Description

[0008] The embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings are illustrative and exemplary in nature and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims. The following detailed description of the illustrative embodiments will be understood when read in conjunction with the following drawings, wherein the same structures are indicated by the same reference numerals, and wherein:

[0009] Figure 1A A first aspect of an elevator assembly schematically illustrated according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein is presented.

[0010] Figure 1B A second aspect of a schematic diagram of an elevator assembly according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein is illustrated.

[0011] Figure 2 The illustrations schematically depict one or more embodiments shown and described herein. Figure 1AAn environmental diagram of the elevator components and elevator stabilization components, representing the first aspect of elevator assemblies.

[0012] Figure 3 The illustrations schematically depict one or more embodiments shown and described herein. Figure 2 Partial independent 3D view of elevator components and elevator stabilization components;

[0013] Figure 4 The illustration schematically depicts one or more embodiments shown and described herein in an unstable state. Figure 2 An independent 3D view of the elevator stabilizing components;

[0014] Figure 5 The illustrations schematically depict one or more embodiments shown and described herein. Figure 4 An independent top view of the elevator stabilizing components;

[0015] Figure 6 The illustration schematically depicts a stable state according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein. Figure 2 An independent 3D view of the elevator stabilizing components;

[0016] Figure 7 The illustrations schematically depict one or more embodiments shown and described herein. Figure 6 A top view of the elevator stabilizing components;

[0017] Figure 8 The illustrations schematically depict one or more embodiments shown and described herein. Figure 2 A bottom view of the elevator stabilizing components;

[0018] Figure 9 This schematically illustrates one or more embodiments of a device for operation according to the examples shown and described herein. Figure 2 The control system of the elevator stabilization component; and

[0019] Figure 10 The operation of one or more embodiments shown and described herein is illustrated schematically. Figure 2 A flowchart illustrating the method for elevator stabilization components. Detailed Implementation

[0020] The embodiments described herein relate to an elevator assembly and its method of use, including an elevator stabilizing component for damping, braking, and / or dissipating energy of the elevator car. Specifically, when the elevator car of the elevator assembly is loaded with passengers or cargo and the length of each suspension member under tension between the traction pulley and the elevator car has reached a predetermined length, the elevator car may vibrate or bounce under tension while suspended by one or more suspension members. The elevator stabilizing component can move between a stable state and an unstable state to selectively engage fixed members of the elevator assembly's shaft, such as guide rails or other fixed tracks or structures located in the shaft, to reduce the vibration or bounce of the elevator car by applying frictional force to the fixed members in the direction of vibration or bounce. Thus, when the elevator stabilizing component is in a stable state, it dampens, brakes, and / or dissipates energy of the elevator car to reduce or minimize any vertical vibration or bounce that would otherwise occur.

[0021] An elevator stabilization assembly includes a stabilizing device and an actuator coupled to the stabilizing device. The stabilizing device may include a pair of spaced-apart arms, a pair of engaging members coupled to the pair of arms, and a biasing member positioned between the pair of arms, biasing the pair of arms between a disengaged position and an engaged position. The actuator is configured to move the stabilizing device between a retracted position and an extended position. When the actuator moves the stabilizing device to the extended position, the pair of arms moves to the engaged position, such that the pair of engaging members engage and contact a fixed member of the shaft. Therefore, in the engaged position, each engaging member provides friction between the engaging member and the fixed member. In one embodiment, the friction is vertically directed to counteract vertical vibrations or bounces of the car in the vertical shaft. In other embodiments, the friction is generally directed in the direction of vibrations or bounces that the car would otherwise experience. The biasing member biases the pair of engaging members toward the fixed member, thereby increasing the magnitude of the generated friction and reducing the amount of vibration or bounce experienced by the elevator car suspended on the suspension member.

[0022] As used in this article, the term "longitudinal direction" refers to the forward-backward direction of the elevator stabilizing components (i.e., in...). Figure 2 (In the + / -Y direction of the coordinate axes shown). The term "lateral direction" refers to the transverse direction (i.e., along the...). Figure 2 The coordinate axes shown are the X-axis and are transverse to the longitudinal direction. The term "vertical direction" refers to the up-down direction of the elevator stabilizing components (i.e., in the...). Figure 2 (In the + / -Z direction of the coordinate axes shown). As used herein, "upper" is generally defined as the positive Z direction toward the coordinate axes shown in the figure. "Lower" is generally defined as the negative Z direction toward the coordinate axes shown in the figure.

[0023] As used herein, the term "communication coupling" refers to the ability of coupled components to exchange data signals and / or electrical signals, such as electrical signals via a conductive medium, electromagnetic signals via air, optical signals via an optical waveguide, electrical energy via a conductive or non-conductive medium, and wirelessly and / or via a conductive or non-conductive medium.

[0024] Now for reference Figure 1A This diagram illustrates a schematic representation of various components of an elevator assembly 1, representing a first aspect of the assembly. In this aspect, the elevator assembly 1 may include an elevator car 2, a plurality of suspension members 3 (shown as a single suspension member for illustrative purposes), a shaft 7 or well, a traction pulley 5a, a pair of idler pulleys 5b, a track cover 11, and a counterweight 38. In this aspect, the plurality of suspension members 3 extend a certain length between two different track covers 11. Furthermore, in this aspect, for example, the traction pulley 5a is mounted to the track cover 11, which is located in the upper portion of the shaft 7 above the elevator car 2 in the vertical direction (i.e., in the + / -Z direction). This is not limiting, and the traction pulley 5a can be installed at any location within the shaft 7, and there may be more than one traction pulley 5a.

[0025] The traction pulley 5a may include a motor, such that the traction pulley 5a is a device for driving multiple suspension members 3 across multiple lengths between the elevator car 2 and the traction pulley 5a. The idler pulley 5b may also be installed at various locations within the hoistway 7 and is also coupled to the elevator car 2 in this respect. The idler pulley 5b is passive (it does not drive the multiple suspension members 3, but rather guides or aligns them) and forms a contact point or engagement point with the elevator car 2. The multiple suspension members 3 and the traction pulley 5a allow the elevator car 2 to move between multiple locations within the hoistway 7.

[0026] like Figure 1A As shown, elevator assembly 1 is a bottom-suspension system. That is, each of the plurality of suspension members 3 is movably coupled to the traction pulley 5a, and a portion of the suspension member 3 is coupled to the bottom surface of the elevator car 2 to suspend the elevator car via the idler pulley 5b. Thus, the suspension member 3 passes under the elevator car 2 via the idler pulley 5b at the bottom of the elevator car 2 and is coupled under tension to the closed end hook-up device or track cover 11 at the top of the hoistway 7.

[0027] As used herein, “length of each suspension member” or “length of the plurality of suspension members” refers to the length of each of the plurality of suspension members 3 from the traction pulley 5a to the point of contact with the elevator car 2. Thus, in the first aspect, “length of suspension member” is the length of each of the plurality of suspension members 3 between the traction pulley 5a and a pair of idler pulleys 5b positioned at the point of contact with the elevator car 2.

[0028] Now for reference Figure 1B The diagram illustrates various components of a second aspect of elevator assembly 1'. In this aspect, elevator assembly 1' may include an elevator car 2', multiple suspension members 3', a shaft 7' or well, a traction pulley 5a', a pair of idler pulleys 5b', a track cover 11', and a counterweight 38'. In this aspect, the multiple suspension members 3' extend a certain length between the counterweight 38' and the elevator car 2'. Furthermore, in this aspect, the traction pulley 5a' is mounted, for example, on the lower surface of the shaft 7'. This is not limiting; the traction pulley 5a' can be mounted at any location within the shaft 7', and there may be more than one traction pulley 5a'. The traction pulley 5a' may include a motor, such that the traction pulley 5b' is a means of driving the multiple suspension members 3' through multiple lengths relative to the length between the contact points of the traction pulley 5a' and the elevator car 2'. The idler pulleys 5b' may also be mounted at different locations within the shaft 7' and are also coupled to the track cover 11' in this aspect. The idler pulley 5b' is passive (it does not drive the multiple suspension members 3, but rather guides or aligns them). The multiple suspension members 3' are coupled to the elevator car 2' to form a contact point. Therefore, in the second aspect, the length of each suspension member 3' in the elevator assembly 1' is from the traction pulley 5a' to the contact point with the elevator car 2'.

[0029] It should be understood that Figure 1A-Figure 1B The schematic diagrams shown are merely examples, and the routes of the suspension components may differ significantly or slightly from these schematics. For example, there may be multiple idler pulleys in the shaft between the traction pulley and the point of contact with the elevator car. However, regardless of the route of the suspension components and the number of components (such as idler pulleys), the length of each suspension component used here is between the traction pulley and the point of contact with the elevator car.

[0030] Now for reference Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 8 An environmental diagram of elevator component 1 is schematically shown. For the sake of brevity, the embodiments described herein are for use with... Figure 1A Elevator component 1, however, should be understood as non-limiting, and embodiments may also be adapted to... Figure 1B The elevator system 1' and / or other elevator components not shown herein.

[0031] Such as about Figure 1A The elevator assembly 1 discussed may include an elevator car 2, multiple suspension components 3 (such as suspension belts (as shown in the attached figure), ropes, cables, etc.), a hoistway 7 or a fixing component 4 of the hoistway (such as a guide rail 4), traction pulleys 5a, a pair of idler pulleys 5b, a roller guide assembly 9 (which has multiple guide wheels 91, 92, 93 straddling the guide rail 4), and a track cover 11. The fixing component or guide rail 4 includes a width W defined therebetween. Figure 5The elevator car 2 has a pair of opposing side surfaces 4a, 4b and a front surface 4c that can face the elevator car 2. Each of the plurality of suspension members 3 has a distal end (not shown) and an opposing proximal end 8. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the plurality of suspension members 3 may include any number of suspension members, such as... Figure 2 and Figure 3 The diagram shows four spaced-apart suspension members. In other embodiments, there may be more or fewer than four spaced-apart suspension members.

[0032] Therefore, in this embodiment, the proximal end 8 of the suspension member 3 is fixedly coupled to the track cover 11, and the movably coupled portion of the suspension member 3 is under tension to move the elevator car 2 between the various floors. The track cover 11 may be opposite to the traction pulley 5a in the hoistway 7, such that the elevator car 2 is positioned between the traction pulley 5a and the track cover 11. During operation, rotation of the traction pulley 5a causes the suspension member 3 to move, which in turn causes the elevator car 2 to move between the floors. In some embodiments, the movement of the suspension member 3 is in the vertical direction (i.e., in the + / - Z direction). In other embodiments, the movement of the suspension member 3 is in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the + / - Y direction) and / or in the transverse direction (i.e., in the X direction), or a combination thereof.

[0033] In other embodiments, multiple suspension members 3 may be coupled to or connected to the elevator car 2 at the top or upper surface of the elevator car 2, such as... Figure 1B As shown. For example, the suspension member 3 can be connected to the elevator car 2 via a pulley (not shown) and extends to the counterweight 38 ( Figure 1A-Figure 1B The rotation of the traction pulley 5a causes the suspension member 3 to move on the pulley to the counterweight, thereby moving the elevator car 2, for example by raising or lowering the elevator car 2 between floors. The suspension member 3 extends downward from the traction pulley 5a to the elevator car 2, is movably coupled to the elevator car 2 in the front-rear direction, and extends upward from the elevator car 2 to the track cover 11.

[0034] exist Figure 2In the illustrated embodiment, as the elevator car 2 moves away from the traction pulley 5a, the lengths of the multiple tension-bearing suspension members 3 between the contact point between the traction pulley 5a and the elevator car increase. Depending on the position or location of the traction pulley 5a, some movement of the elevator car 2 can position the elevator car closer to the traction pulley 5a, thereby increasing the lengths of the multiple suspension members 3. For example, when the traction pulley 5a is positioned near the bottom of the shaft 7, and the elevator car 2 is located at a lower level of the building or at a landing and moves closer to the traction pulley 5a, the lengths of the suspension members 3 under tension in the traction pulley 5b and the elevator car 2 will be longer. Alternatively, when the traction pulley 5a is positioned near the top of the shaft 7, and the elevator car 2 is positioned at a lower level of the building or at a landing, the distance or length of the suspension members 3 will be longer than when the elevator car 2 is located at a higher level of the building or at a landing and is moving away from the traction pulley 5a.

[0035] Each of the plurality of tensioners 6 is configured to adjust the tension of a corresponding suspension member among the plurality of suspension members 3. It should be understood that the plurality of suspension members 3 described herein are not limited to any particular type or construction of suspension member, and may be or may include alternative forms and / or configurations of ropes, cables, belts, or suspension members, wherein any suspension member may be made of steel wire, aramid fiber, carbon fiber, glass fiber, other composite materials, or combinations thereof. In particular, but not limited to, the belt may be any of a steel wire rope belt, an aramid rope belt, a carbon fiber belt, or other similar composite belt having a plurality of internal cords or fibers embedded within an outer polymer sheath of a polymer matrix or rubber, PVC and PVG, combinations thereof, similar polymers, and / or similar materials.

[0036] Multiple suspension members 3 and / or other components known to those skilled in the art can be configured to move the elevator car 2 between multiple positions. For example, in some embodiments, the multiple suspension members 3 can raise and lower the elevator car 2 between floors in a building in a vertical direction (i.e., along the + / -Z direction). In other embodiments, the multiple suspension members 3 can move the elevator car 2 between multiple positions in a lateral direction (i.e., along the + / -X direction), a longitudinal direction (i.e., in the + / -Y direction), or a direction transverse to one or more of the vertical, lateral, or longitudinal directions. Guide rails 4 can be fixed to various portions of the hoistway 7 and configured to guide the elevator car 2 between multiple positions. Guide rails 4 can position the elevator car 2 within the hoistway 7 in a lateral direction (i.e., in the + / -X direction), a longitudinal direction (i.e., in the + / -Y direction), a vertical direction (i.e., in the + / -Z direction), or any combination thereof. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the elevator assembly 1 may include a spaced-apart pair of guide rails 4.

[0037] The elevator car 2 may include a door 2a, a gate, a barrier, etc., that can move between an open position and a closed position. In the open position, a user can enter or exit the elevator car 2. In the closed position, entry or exit from the elevator car 2 can be denied. The elevator assembly 1 can function similarly to a conventional elevator assembly. That is, in some embodiments, the elevator car 2 can move from one floor to another using guide rails 4, roller guide assemblies 9, and multiple suspension members 3, powered by a motor applied to the traction pulley 5a. Furthermore, when located on another floor, the elevator assembly 1 can move the door 2a from the closed position to the open position. In other embodiments where the elevator car 2 moves in the lateral direction (i.e., along the + / -X direction) or the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the + / -Y direction), the elevator car can move between multiple positions, moving the door 2a from the closed position to the open position when it is in one of the multiple positions.

[0038] refer to Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 8 The roller guide assembly 9 may include a mounting base 95, a pair of opposing wheels 91, 92, a front wheel 93, and biasing members 94. The pair of opposing wheels 91, 92 may be configured to contact a pair of opposing side surfaces 4a, 4b of the guide rail 4, respectively. The front wheel 93 may be disposed laterally to the pair of opposing wheels 91, 92. Furthermore, the front wheel 93 may be configured to contact the front surface 4c of the guide rail 4. Each of the biasing members 94 may include a shaft that couples the pair of opposing wheels 91, 92 and the front wheel 93 to the mounting base 95 and biases each of the pair of opposing wheels 91, 92 and the front wheel 93 toward the respective contact surfaces of the guide rail 4. For example, the biasing member 94 coupled to the front wheel 93 biases the front wheel 93 in the longitudinal direction (e.g., along the + / - Y direction) to the front surface 4c of the guide rail 4. The biasing members 94 coupled to the pair of opposing wheels 91, 92 bias the wheels toward the guide rail 4 and toward each other. One of a pair of opposing wheels 91 may include an outer surface 91a that contacts the side surface 4a of the guide rail 4. The other of a pair of opposing wheels 92 may include an outer surface 92a that contacts the side surface 4b of the guide rail 4. The front wheel 93 may include an outer surface 93a that contacts the front surface 4c of the guide rail 4.

[0039] Now for reference Figure 1A and Figures 2-8 Elevator assembly 1 also includes an elevator stabilizing assembly 10. The elevator stabilizing assembly 10 can move between a stable state and an unstable state. In the stable state, the elevator stabilizing assembly engages with the guide rail 4 of elevator assembly 1, such as... Figures 6-7 As shown in the optimal configuration, in an unstable state, the elevator stabilizing component disengages from the guide rail 4 of elevator component 1, as... Figures 4-5As best shown. The elevator stabilization assembly 10 may include an actuator 12, a mounting member 14, and a stabilizing device 18. The mounting member 14 may include a platform 15, an elongated member 16 (e.g., a rod), and a mounting bracket 17 for mounting or coupling the platform 15 to the elevator car 2. The platform 15 and the mounting bracket 17 may be coupled to the elongated member 16, which is positioned between the platform 15 and the mounting bracket 17. In embodiments, the elevator assembly 1 may include at least one elevator stabilization assembly 10. This at least one elevator stabilization assembly 10 may be positioned in either direction of travel. For example, in embodiments where the elevator car 2 travels in a vertical direction (e.g., along the + / -Z direction), at least one elevator stabilization assembly 10 may be positioned above the elevator car 2, within the elevator car 2, or both. Although Figure 2 The elevator assembly 1 shown includes two elevator stabilizing components 10, but the elevator assembly 1 may include any number of elevator stabilizing components, such as one, two, three, four, five, etc.

[0040] Now for reference Figure 5 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 Platform 15 can extend vertically relative to the travel or extension direction of guide rail 4. Platform 15 includes a leading edge 15a and a trailing edge 15b closest to guide rail 4, a pair of side edges 15d located at the longitudinal end of trailing edge 15a, and may include an upper surface 57a and an opposing inner surface 57b, both of which can be planar. The inner surface 57b may face toward the elevator car 2 and roller guide assembly 9, while the upper surface 57a faces away from the elevator car 2 and roller guide assembly 9. Platform 15 may also include a recess 19 formed at trailing edge 15b. Recess 19 includes an inner edge surface 15c. Platform 15 can be positioned adjacent to guide rail 4 such that a portion of guide rail 4 extends into recess 19 of platform 15. Thus, the shape of recess 19 can be adapted to the geometry of guide rail 4.

[0041] Now for reference Figure 3 and Figure 8In some embodiments, platform 15 is mounted or coupled to roller guide assembly 9. That is, platform 15 is mounted or coupled above roller guide assembly 9 in the vertical direction (i.e., in the + / -Z direction). Mounting bracket 17 may be coupled to mounting base 95 of roller guide assembly 9, for example, by fasteners. The shape of platform 15 may allow side edges 15d of platform 15 to extend over the outer surfaces 91a, 92a of a pair of opposing wheels 91, 92, respectively, such that platform 15 covers the pair of opposing wheels 91, 92. Furthermore, the shape of platform 15 may allow leading edge 15a of platform 15 to extend over the outer surface 93a of front wheel 93 to cover front wheel 93. Platform 15 may be a protective device to prevent access to roller guide assembly 9. In some embodiments, platform 15 may prevent debris from contacting guide wheels 92, 93, or prevent debris from being positioned between guide wheels 91, 92, 93 and guide rail 4. In other embodiments, roller guide assembly 9 is mounted to other components of elevator assembly 1.

[0042] Now return to the reference Figures 3-7 In this embodiment, platform 15 and mounting bracket 17 can be coupled to elongated member 16 via fasteners such as bolts and nuts, rivets, screws, welding, epoxy resin, adhesives, etc. Mounting bracket 17 can be coupled to elevator car 2 via fasteners (e.g., bolts and nuts, rivets, screws, welding, epoxy resin, adhesives, etc.). Platform 15 can be spaced from elevator car 2 by the vertical length of elongated member 16. That is, the length of elongated member 16 in the vertical direction (i.e., in the + / -Z direction) determines the distance between platform 15 and elevator car 2. Actuator 12, stabilizing device 18, or both can be coupled to platform 15 of mounting member 14.

[0043] In this embodiment, the actuator 12, the stabilizing device 18, or both, can be coupled to the upper surface 57 of the platform 15 between the leading edge 15a and the trailing edge 15b via fasteners (such as bolts and nuts, rivets, screws, welding, epoxy resin, adhesives, etc.). Thus, the mounting member 14 can couple the platform 15 and the elevator stabilizing assembly 10 to the elevator car 2.

[0044] Actuator 12 may include an actuating member 13, a pair of slide rails 23, a frame 26, and a support member 27. The actuating member 13 can be moved by actuator 12. In some embodiments, the movement may be rotational. In other embodiments, the movement may be linear or any other motion. In one embodiment, the actuating member 13 may be a threaded rod. Frame 26 and actuator 12 may each include a plurality of mounting plates 24. Each of the plurality of mounting plates 24 includes a hole 25 extending through each of the plurality of mounting plates 24. Each hole 25 is configured to receive fasteners, such as bolts and nuts, screws, rivets, etc. Frame 26 may be coupled to the upper surface 57 of platform 15 via the plurality of mounting plates 24. However, frame 26 may be coupled to different surfaces of platform 15, and in any other way, such as via welding, adhesives, epoxy resin, etc.

[0045] Still referencing Figures 3-7 The support member 27 may include an upper surface 27a and an opposing lower surface 27b. The upper surface 27a may be profiled, or it may be a plane, a receiving groove, etc. The support member 27 is movably coupled to a pair of slide rails 23, such that the support member 27 can translate in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the + / -Y direction). The support member 27 may be threadedly engaged with the actuating member 13, such that movement of the actuating member causes the support member 27 to move in the longitudinal direction (e.g., in the + / -Y direction) via the actuator 12.

[0046] The stabilizing device 18 can be coupled to the support member 27 of the actuator 12. The actuator 12 can be configured in the retracted position (e.g., Figure 4-5 (as shown in the best example) and the extension position (as shown in) Figures 6-7 The actuator 12 moves between the retracted and extended positions, thereby moving the stabilizing device 18 in the longitudinal direction (e.g., in the + / -Y direction). In some embodiments, the actuator 12 may move in the rotational direction. In other embodiments, the actuator 12 may move in the linear direction. As discussed in more detail herein, when moving from the retracted position to the extended position, the actuator 12 moves the stabilizing device 18 in the longitudinal direction toward the guide rail 4 (i.e., in the +Y direction) to allow the stabilizing device 18 to engage the guide rail 4. As discussed in more detail herein, when moving from the extended position to the retracted position, the actuator 12 moves the stabilizing device 18 in the longitudinal direction away from the guide rail 4 (i.e., in the -Y direction) to disengage from the guide rail 4.

[0047] In some embodiments, actuator 12 may be driven by an electric motor. In other embodiments, actuator 12 may be a stepper motor, hydraulic cylinder, pneumatic cylinder, magnetic actuator, mechanical actuator, etc. Furthermore, actuator 12 may move linearly in the lateral direction (e.g., in the + / -X direction) and / or longitudinal direction (e.g., in the + / -Y direction), such as by a linear actuator. However, in embodiments, actuator 12 may rotate, such as by a rotary actuator. In embodiments including a rotary actuator, actuator 12 may rotate various components to move stabilizing device 18 to contact guide rail 4.

[0048] The stabilizing device 18 may include a base member 20, a pair of arms 28, a biasing member 50, a pair of engaging members 40, and a pair of spacers 54. The base member 20 may include a first end 20a and an opposing second end 20b. Furthermore, the base member 20 may include an upper surface 21a spaced apart from the lower surface 21b to define a thickness. A pair of elongated slots 22 extend at least partially through the base member 20 in a lateral direction (e.g., in the + / -X direction) and extend from the first end 20a of the base member 20 to the opposing second end 20b between the upper surface 21a and the lower surface 21b. Additionally, the base member 20 may include a pair of recesses 36 positioned at the first end 20a. In some embodiments, these recesses 36 extend partially through the base member 20. That is, each of these recesses 36 extends vertically (i.e., in the + / -Z direction) through the upper surface 21a to an opening for the pair of elongated slots 22.

[0049] Still referencing Figures 3-7 In some embodiments, the base member 20 may be generally rectangular. In other embodiments, the base member 20 may include any shape, such as circular, triangular, rectangular, hexagonal, etc. The lower surface 21b of the base member 20 may be coupled to the support member 27 of the actuator 12. That is, the upper surface 27a of the support member 27 may support the base member 20. The upper surface 27a of the support member 27 may be shaped to complement and receive the shape of the lower surface 21b of the base member 20. The base member 20 may be coupled to the support member 27 via fasteners, such as bolts and nuts, screws, rivets, hooks, welding, epoxy resin, adhesives, etc. Furthermore, the base member 20 may be formed of any material, including metals such as steel, aluminum, copper, etc., polymers, composite materials, plastics, resins, etc.

[0050] Each of the pair of arms 28 may include a first end 33 and an opposing second end 35. Furthermore, each of the pair of arms 28 may include a first portion 32 positioned adjacent to or near the first end 33 and a second portion 34 positioned adjacent to or near the second end 35. The first portion 32 is spaced apart from the second portion 34 by an intermediate portion 31. Each of the pair of arms 28 may be partially positioned within a corresponding elongated slot of a pair of elongated slots 22 in the base member 20. Furthermore, each of the pair of arms 28 extends longitudinally (i.e., in the + / - Y direction) away from the base member 20.

[0051] The first portion 32 of each of the pair of arms 28 can be positioned within the pair of elongated slots 22 such that the first end 33 of each of the pair of arms 28 terminates near the second end 20b of the base member 20. The first portion 32 of each of the pair of arms 28 can be pivotally coupled to the base member 20 via one of a pair of pivoting members 30. Each of the pair of pivoting members 30 can extend vertically (i.e., in the + / -Z direction) and extend through the pair of elongated slots 22, the first portion 32 of each of the pair of arms 28, and the upper surface 21a and lower surface 21b of the base member 20. Thus, in some embodiments, as discussed in more detail herein, each of the pair of pivoting members 30 can be a pin, rod, or other elongated body that can serve as a pivot such that, when moving between an engaged position and a disengaged position, each of the first end 33 and the first portion 32 of each of the pair of arms 28 can pivot or rotate about each of the pair of pivoting members 30. Furthermore, as discussed in more detail herein, each of the pair of arms 28 is configured to move the pair of engaging members 40 to contact or not contact the guide rail 4 when the pair of arms moves between the engaging and disengaged positions.

[0052] Still referencing Figures 3-7In some embodiments, the pair of arms 28 further includes an inner surface 37a and an opposing outer surface 37b. The inner surface 37a may face the platform 15 of the mounting member 14. In some embodiments, each of the pair of arms 28 further includes a sidewall 29 coupled to or attached to the outer surface 37b at an intermediate portion 31. That is, the sidewall 29 is attached to or coupled to the outer surface 37b of the intermediate portion 31 between the first portion 32 and the second portion 34. The sidewall 29 extends from the outer surface 37b in a vertical direction (i.e., in the + / -Z direction). Furthermore, in some embodiments, the sidewall 29 extends only a portion of the pair of arms 28 so as not to interfere with or overlap with the first portion 32 and the second portion 34. In some embodiments, the sidewall 29 is a monolithic structure having a corresponding arm of the pair of arms 28. In other embodiments, the sidewall 29 may be coupled to or attached to the outer surface 37b by fasteners such as nuts and bolts, screws, rivets, epoxy resin, adhesives, welding and / or the like. In some embodiments, the pair of arms 28 is typically rectangular in shape, wherein the inner surface 37a and the outer surface 37b are substantially planar at the first portion 32 and the second portion 34. The intermediate portion 31 and the sidewall 29 form an L-shaped cross-section. In other embodiments, the pair of arms 28 can be of any shape, including but not limited to circular, square, hexagonal, octagonal, etc.

[0053] The pair of arms 28 can be formed of any material, including but not limited to metals such as steel, aluminum, and copper, polymers, composite materials, plastics, and resins. In some embodiments, the length of each of the pairs of arms 28 extending in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the + / - Y direction) is equal to the length of the other of the pairs of arms relative to the base member 20. In other embodiments, the length of one of the pairs of arms 28 may be less than or greater than the length of the other of the pairs of arms 28. Furthermore, each of the pairs of arms 28 may have a different width in the transverse direction (i.e., in the + / - X direction) between the inner surface 37a and the outer surface 37b.

[0054] A pair of engaging members 40 may be coupled to the pair of arms 28. In some embodiments, one of the pair of engaging members 40 may be coupled to a second portion 34 of one of the pairs of arms 28 adjacent to or near the second end 35, and the other of the pair of engaging members 40 may be coupled to a second portion 34 of the other of the pairs of arms 28 adjacent to or near the second end 35. Thus, as discussed in more detail herein, a portion of the outer surface 41 of the pair of engaging members 40 may extend beyond the second end 35 of the pair of arms 28 to ensure that at least one of the pair of engaging members 40 contacts the guide rail 4. That is, a portion of the outer surface 41 of the pair of engaging members 40 is formed to extend beyond the outer periphery of the corresponding second end 35 of the pair of arms 28.

[0055] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the second end 35 of the pair of arms 28 may be positioned below the pair of engaging members 40 in the vertical direction (i.e., in the + / -Z direction), such that the pair of engaging members 40 is positioned on or adjacent to the outer surface 37b of the pair of arms 28. In some embodiments, the second end 35 of the pair of arms 28 may be positioned above the pair of engaging members 40 in the vertical direction (i.e., in the + / -Z direction), such that the pair of engaging members 40 is positioned on or adjacent to the inner surface 37a of the pair of arms 28. In each embodiment, the pair of engaging members 40 may be coupled to the second end 35 of the pair of arms 28 in a direction perpendicular to the travel direction of the elevator car 2. It should be understood that the second end 35 of the pair of arms 28 may be positioned in any location to couple the pair of engaging members 40 to the second end 35 of the pair of arms. Furthermore, it should be understood that the pair of engaging members 40 may be coupled to the second end 35 of the pair of arms 28 in any direction and is not limited to a vertical position relative to the travel direction of the elevator car 2. The pair of engaging elements 40 can be coupled to the pair of arms 28 via fasteners 39 (such as bolts and nuts, rivets, screws, etc.) such that, in some embodiments, as discussed in more detail herein, the pair of engaging elements 40 can rotate about the fasteners 39.

[0056] Still referencing Figures 3-7 Each of the pair of engaging members 40 may be a roller rotatably coupled to the second portion 34 of the pair of arms 28. It should be understood that the pair of engaging members 40 may include any shape to provide friction against the guide rail 4 when the pair of arms 28 are in the engaged position. For example, the pair of engaging members 40 may be a friction pad, herringbone, L-shaped, etc.

[0057] Each of the pair of engaging members 40 can rotate about an axis 42 extending parallel to the dimension of the guide rail 4. That is, the axis 42 extends in the same direction of travel as the guide rail 4. In the illustrated embodiment, the axis 42 can extend in a vertical direction (i.e., in the + / - Z direction). This is not limiting, and the direction of travel of the guide rail 4 can be a longitudinal direction (i.e., in the + / - Y direction), a transverse direction (i.e., in the + / - X direction), and / or a combination of other directions. Furthermore, as discussed in more detail herein, when moved to engage with the guide rail 4, each of the pair of engaging members 40 can each rotate about the axis 42 in one direction, such as... Figures 6-7 As shown and indicated by arrow A3, it rotates in the opposite direction to disengage from guide rail 4, as... Figures 4-5 As shown and indicated by arrow A4.

[0058] The pair of mating members 40 can be formed of any material, such as polyurethane, steel, aluminum, rubber, polymer, PVC, composite materials, plastics, resins, etc. The pair of mating members 40 can be formed of different materials with varying coefficients of friction.

[0059] A biasing member 50 may extend between each of the pairs of arms 28 to couple to each sidewall 29 of the pairs of arms. The biasing member 50 may pivotally bias the pairs of arms 28 in a lateral direction (e.g., in the + / -X direction) to provide a biasing force that biases the pairs of arms 28 into a disengaged position, such as... Figures 4-7 As indicated by arrows A5 and A6 in the diagram. That is, the biasing member 50 can bias the pair of arms 28 to change or modify the set width between the pair of engaging members 40. The biasing member 50 can be a spring, a band, etc. The biasing force of the biasing member 50 can be predetermined based on the type of biasing member 50. Furthermore, the biasing force can be adjustable. That is, the spring constant of the biasing member 50 can be adjusted to change the desired biasing force for different applications, different pairs of engaging members 40, tension on the biasing member 50, etc. The biasing member 50 can be coupled to each sidewall 29 of the pair of arms 28 via fasteners 55, such as suspension screws, nuts and bolts, rivets, hook and loop fasteners, etc. In some embodiments, the fastener 55 can be configured to adjust the biasing force in the biasing member 50 by adjusting the tension of the biasing member 50. In other embodiments, the adjustment of the biasing force is accomplished by manipulating the biasing member 50 itself.

[0060] Still referencing Figures 3-7 In some embodiments having a pair of spaced-apart guide rails 4, each of the pair of arms 28 may be biased toward each other, away from each other, and / or in the same direction (e.g., in the + / -X direction) by biasing member 50. In embodiments where the biasing member 50 biases the pair of arms 28 away from each other, engaging member 40 may be positioned between the pair of spaced-apart guide rails 4 such that the pair of engaging members 40 moves toward each other as the elevator stabilizing assembly 10 moves from the disengaged position to the engaged position. In other embodiments, engaging member 40 may be positioned on opposite sides of the pair of spaced-apart guide rails 4 such that the pair of engaging members 40 moves away from each other in the lateral direction (i.e., the + / -X direction) as the elevator stabilizing assembly 10 moves from the disengaged position to the engaged position. In other embodiments, the pair of arms 28 are biased in the same direction, and the biasing member 50 may be a pair of biasing members 50, wherein each biasing member 50 is coupled to a corresponding arm 28 to bias the pair of arms 28 in the same direction.

[0061] In some embodiments, a lateral actuator (not shown) may be used in place of and / or in conjunction with the bias member 50. Similar to the bias member 50, the lateral actuator may be coupled to at least one of the pairs of arms 28. The lateral actuator may be configured to move the pairs of arms 28 between a disengaged position and an engaged position.

[0062] The pair of spacers 54 can be coupled to each sidewall 29 of the pair of arms 28 and positioned within each corresponding recess of the pair of recesses 36. Thus, when the pair of arms 28 is in the disengaged position, each of the pair of spacers 54 can be configured to contact the base member 20 at the corresponding recess of the pair of recesses 36. Therefore, the pair of spacers 54 restricts the movement of the pair of arms 28 and the engagement member 40 in the lateral direction (i.e., in the -X direction). That is, when both of the pair of arms 28 are in the disengaged position, each of the pair of spacers 54 can provide a space or gap between the pair of arms 28. It should be understood that in some embodiments, when the pair of arms 28 is in the disengaged position, only one of the pair of spacers 54 may be used to provide a space or gap between the pair of arms 28. Each of the pair of spacers 54 can be adjusted to increase or decrease the space or gap between the pair of arms 28 and the base member 20, thereby changing the space or gap between the pair of arms 28 and the pair of engaging members 40 when the pair of arms is in the disengaged position.

[0063] In some embodiments, each of the pair of spacers 54 may be coupled to a bolt threaded to the sidewall 29 of the pair of arms 28. Therefore, rotation of the bolt can adjust the spacing or gap between the pair of arms 28 and the base member 20 in the disengaged position. When the pair of engaging members 40 contact the guide rail 4, the increased spacing reduces the force and distance required to move the pair of arms 28 and the pair of engaging members 40 from the disengaged position to the engaged position. Furthermore, having an adjustable disengaged position reduces wear on both the stabilizing device 18 and the guide rail 4. The change in the disengaged position spacing alters the spacing S1 between the pair of engaging members 40. Figure 5 ).

[0064] In some embodiments, the elevator stabilizing assembly 10 may further include a longitudinal biasing member coupled to the actuator 12, the stabilizing device 18, or both. The longitudinal biasing member may be configured to bias the actuator 12 between an extended position and a retracted position. That is, the longitudinal biasing member may bias the actuator 12 to a retracted position such that the actuator 12 can return to the retracted position, spaced apart from the guide rail 4 by the pair of engaging members 40, without actuating the actuator 12. This may be desirable because it reduces the energy required to operate the elevator stabilizing assembly 10. Additionally, in the event of a power outage, disengaging the elevator stabilizing assembly 10 from the guide rail 4 may be desirable. The longitudinal biasing member may be coupled to the base member 20 of the stabilizing device 18 via fasteners such as bolts and nuts, rivets, screws, welding, epoxy resin, adhesives, etc.

[0065] Now for reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 The elevator stabilizing assembly 10 is shown in an unstable state. In the unstable state, the actuator 12 is in the retracted position, and the pair of arms 28 and the pair of engaging members 40 are each in a disengaged position. In the retracted position, each of the pair of engaging members 40 is spaced apart from the guide rail 4, such that each of the pair of engaging members 40 is not in contact with the guide rail 4. Furthermore, in the unstable state with the actuator 12 in the retracted position, the biasing member 50 maintains the spacing or gap between the pair of arms 28 according to the positioning of the pair of spacers 54, such that the space S1 between the pair of engaging members 40 is maintained and repeatable. Therefore, in the disengaged position, the pair of engaging members 40 can be controlled to a predetermined position (e.g., space S1) between each of the pair of engaging members 40.

[0066] In other words, in the disengaged position, the pair of arms 28 contacts a corresponding one of the pair of spacers 54, such that the space between the pair of arms is set by the pair of spacers 54. That is, each of the pair of spacers 54 restricts the lateral movement of the pair of arms 28 in the direction toward each other (e.g., in the + / -X direction), thereby maintaining the space or gap between the pair of arms and between the pair of engaging members 40. However, this is not limiting, and in the disengaged position, the spacing between the pair of arms 28 and / or the pair of engaging members 40 can be set by the biasing force applied to the pair of arms 28, the size and / or shape of the pair of engaging members 40, etc. Furthermore, it should be understood that in the disengaged position, the spacing S1 is less than the width W of the guide rail 4.

[0067] Now for reference Figure 6 and Figure 7The elevator stabilizing assembly 10 is shown in a stable state. In the stable state, the actuator 12 is in the extended position, and each of the pair of engaging members 40 is in the engaged position. Furthermore, in the stable state, when the actuator 12 is in the extended position, the pair of engaging members 40 are positioned to contact the opposite side surfaces 4a, 4b of the guide rail 4. That is, in the engaged position, the pair of engaging members 40 are laterally (in the + / -X direction) to change the width or spacing S1 between the pair of engaging members 40. In other words, the contact with the guide rail 4 generates a force greater than the biasing force, causing the space S1 or width between the pair of engaging members 40 to increase to match the width W of the guide rail 4. Thus, in the stable state, the pair of engaging members 40 are spaced apart by a spacing S2 equal to the width W of the guide rail 4 in some embodiments. In other embodiments, the pair of engaging members 40 are spaced apart by a spacing S2 less than or greater than the width W of the guide rail 4. For example, if the guide rail 4 or other fixed members of the hoistway 7 ( Figure 3 If the joint includes a receiving groove, such as an I-beam, then the spacing S2 can be less than the width W.

[0068] It should be understood that in the engaged position, the biasing member 50 biases the pair of arms 28 together with the pair of engaging members 40 inward toward each other, or in the lateral direction (i.e., in the + / -X direction), and toward the disengaged position, as indicated by arrows A5 and A6. Specifically, the biasing member 50 moves one of the pair of arms 28 in the direction of arrow A5 and the other of the pair of arms 28 in the direction of arrow A6. This biasing force results in a normal force between the pair of engaging members 40 and the guide rail 4. Thus, in order to move the pair of arms 28 and the pair of engaging members 40 to the engaged position, the lateral force acting on the pair of engaging members 40 (i.e., in the + / -X direction) can be greater than the biasing force applied by the biasing member 50. When the pair of engaging members 40 contacts the opposite side surfaces 4a, 4b of the guide rail 4, the lateral force causes the pair of arms 28 to move or pivot about the pair of pivoting members 30 in the direction indicated by arrow A1, thereby changing the spacing between the pair of engaging elements 40 from S1 to S2, as discussed in more detail herein.

[0069] However, in alternative embodiments not shown in the accompanying drawings, with the fixed member or guide rail 4 having an alternative design, it is conceivable that the biasing member 50 can apply force to the pair of arms 28 to bias the pair of arms and / or the engaging member 40 away from each other or in the same direction. In such embodiments, without departing from the scope of this disclosure, the biasing member 50 may include more than one biasing member as needed, for example, one biasing member 50 for each of the pair of arms 28, or one biasing member for each engaging member 40, etc.

[0070] Now return to the reference Figures 4-7 When moving from the disengaged position to the engaged position to position the pair of engaging members 40 at the distance S2, each of the pair of arms 28 can pivot about the pair of pivoting members 30 in the direction of arrow A1. It should be understood that when at least one of the pair of engaging members 40 contacts at least a portion of the guide rail 4, movement from the disengaged position to the engaged position can be caused. In other embodiments, movement from the disengaged position to the engaged position can be caused by an actuator or the like. When pivoting in the direction of arrow A1, the second end 35 of at least one of the pair of arms 28 moves laterally (e.g., in the + / -X direction), causing the biasing member 50 to extend laterally (e.g., along the + / -X direction).

[0071] When moving from the engaged position to the disengaged position, each of the pair of arms 28 can pivot about the pair of pivoting members 30 in the direction of arrow A2. When the actuator 12 moves from the extended position to the retracted position, at least one of the pair of engaged members 40 is not in contact with the guide rail 4. When at least one of the pair of engaged members 40 is not in contact with the guide rail 4, the biasing member 50 causes the second end 35 of the pair of arms 28 to move laterally (e.g., in the + / -X direction), thereby pivoting the pair of arms 28 about the pair of pivoting members 30 in the direction of arrow A2 to position the pair of engaged members 40 at the distance S1.

[0072] Now for reference Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 9 The elevator stabilization assembly 10 may also include a central processing unit architecture 69 configured to perform the functions described herein. The central processing unit architecture 69 includes an Internet of Things module 71 communicatively coupled to the processing unit 70 via a CAN bus connection 73. The central processing unit architecture 69 may also include a communication path 72 that communicatively couples the processing unit 70 to the actuator 12 and other components coupled to the central processing unit architecture, such as a power supply 84. It should be noted that the elevator stabilization assembly 10 may have a greater or lesser number of communicatively coupled components without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0073] Communication path 72 provides data interconnection between various modules and / or components forming part of elevator stabilization assembly 10. Specifically, each module may operate as a node capable of sending and / or receiving data. In some embodiments, communication path 72 includes a conductive material that allows electrical data signals to be transmitted throughout elevator stabilization assembly 10 to and between processors, memories, sensors, actuators, and / or the like. In another embodiment, communication path 72 may be a bus. In a further embodiment, communication path 72 may be wireless and / or an optical waveguide.

[0074] The processing device 70 may be configured to selectively operate components of the elevator stabilization assembly 10 in response to receiving signals indicating the position of the elevator doors and the position of the elevator car 2 within the hoistway 7, as discussed in more detail herein. The processing device 70 may include one or more non-transitory processor-readable storage media 82 and one or fewer memory modules 78 communicatively coupled to one or more processors 76 via communication path 72. The processing device 70 may include any means capable of executing machine-readable instructions (e.g., processing instructions) stored on one or more non-transitory processor-readable storage media 82. Therefore, the processing device 70 may include a controller, integrated circuit, microchip, computer, central processing unit, and / or any other computing device. It should be noted that the processing device 70 may be located within and / or outside the elevator stabilization assembly 10.

[0075] As discussed herein, one or more memory modules 78 are communicatively coupled to a processing device 70 and one or more non-transitory processor-readable storage media 82 via a communication path 72. The one or more memory modules 78 may be configured as volatile and / or non-volatile memory, and therefore may include random access memory (including SRAM, DRAM, and / or other types of RAM), flash memory, secure digital storage (SD) memory, registers, optical discs (CDs), digital versatile discs (DVDs), and / or other types of non-transitory computer-readable media. Depending on the specific embodiment, one or more memory modules 78 and / or one or more non-transitory processor-readable storage media 82 may be located within and / or outside the elevator stabilization assembly 10. The one or more memory modules 78 may be configured to store one or more logic to move the elevator stabilization assembly 10 between stable and unstable states.

[0076] The embodiments include logic stored on one or more memory modules 78, comprising machine-readable instructions and / or algorithms written in any programming language of any generation (e.g., 1GL, 2GL, 3GL, 4GL, and / or 5GL), such as machine language, assembly language, obstacle-oriented programming (OOP), scripting language, microcode, etc., which can be directly executed by the processing device 70, and can be compiled or assembled into machine-readable instructions and stored on a machine-readable medium. Similarly, the logic and / or algorithms can be written in a hardware description language (HDL), such as logic implemented via a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) configuration or an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) and its equivalents. Thus, the logic can be implemented in any conventional computer programming language, as a pre-programmed hardware element, and / or as a combination of hardware and software components. As will be described in more detail herein, the logic stored on one or more memory modules 78 allows the processing device 70 to, for example, determine when the position of the door 2a of the elevator car 2 is in the closed position, or alternatively, determine when the door 2a of the elevator car 2 will be opened, rather than being in the closed position, open, or already in the open position. Furthermore, the logic-enabled processing device 70 stored on one or more memory modules 78 determines, for example, the distance between the contact point of the elevator car 2 (e.g., a pair of idler pulleys 5b) and the traction pulley 5a (i.e., the length of the suspension member 3 under tension between the traction pulley 5a and the elevator car 2), and in response, holds or actuates the actuator 12 to move to the retracted position, and a pair of spaced-apart arms 28 moves to the disengaged position. As a second example, the logic-enabled processing device 70 stored on one or more memory modules 78 determines the length of the suspension member 3 under tension between the traction pulley 5a and the contact point of the elevator car based on knowing the position of the elevator car 2 within the hoistway 7, based on sensing technology that senses the length of each of the plurality of suspension members 3, by sensing a marker or other mark indicating when the length of the plurality of suspension members 3 exceeds a predetermined length.

[0077] Therefore, based on predetermined parameters, such as the position of the door 2a of the elevator car 2, whether it is about to be opened, not in the closed position, is being opened or has already been opened, and whether the length of the suspension member 3 under tension between the traction pulley 5a and the contact point of the elevator car exceeds the predetermined length, the processing device 70 activates the actuator 12 to move to the extended position and actuates a pair of spaced-apart arms 28 to the engaged position.

[0078] That is, the processing device 70 can control the actuator 12 to selectively move the elevator stabilizing assembly 10 between a stable state and an unstable state. In some embodiments, the processing device 70 can be configured to move the actuator 12 to an extended position in response to receiving a signal indicating that the position of the door 2a of the elevator car 2 is in the open position and the length of the plurality of suspension members 3 exceeds a predetermined length.

[0079] As used herein, "predetermined length" refers to the length of each of the plurality of suspension components 3, wherein the elevator car 2 may vibrate or bounce in response to the loading of passengers and / or goods into the elevator car 2. For example, the predetermined length may be equal to and / or greater than 250 feet. However, the predetermined length may be 50 feet, 100 feet, 150 feet, 200 feet, 300 feet, 350 feet, 400 feet, etc. Therefore, the elevator stabilization assembly 10 can be activated only when necessary to prevent vibration of the elevator car 2, thereby reducing the frequency of use and extending the life of the elevator stabilization assembly.

[0080] In other embodiments, the processing device 70 may be configured to move the actuator 12 to an extended position in response to receiving a signal indicating that the door 2a of the elevator car 2 is in the open position and the elevator car is at a predetermined floor. The predetermined floor may be a set of floors, wherein when the elevator car 2 is positioned at each such floor, the length of the plurality of suspension members 3 between the elevator car and the traction pulley 5a is greater than or equal to a predetermined length.

[0081] It should be understood that the processing device 70 may also be configured to move or hold the actuator 12 to a retracted position in response to receiving a signal indicating that the position of the door 2a of the elevator car 2 is in the closed position and / or that the length of the plurality of suspension members 3 does not exceed a predetermined length from the traction pulley, as discussed in more detail herein.

[0082] In other embodiments, the processing device 70 may be configured to move the actuator 12 to the extended position in response to receiving a signal that indicates not only that the position of the door 2a of the elevator car 2 is in the fully open position, but also, alternatively, that the door 2a is in the closed position but about to open, not in the closed position, or still open. The signal indicating that the door 2a is about to open may be received by the processing device 70 when the elevator car 2 approaches a landing, or when the elevator car arrives at a landing and stops at the landing and waits for the door 2a to open due to a delay in the mechanical operation of the door opening mechanism. When the door 2a is in multiple positions that are not closed, a signal indicating that the door 2a is not in the closed position may be received. That is, the door opening may be between multiple positions where the door 2a is actually fully open and actually fully closed. The processing device 70 is configured to identify these positions, whether based on sensors, mechanical devices such as linkages, belts, etc., and, in response to the position of the door 2a and a predetermined length, to move or actuate the actuator 12 from the retracted position to the extended position, as discussed in more detail herein.

[0083] Elevator assembly 1 may include a sensor 74 electrically connected to processing unit 70. Sensor 74 may be configured to sense the position of door 2a of elevator car 2 and send a signal to processing unit 70. Sensor 74 may be a proximity sensor, toggle switch, limit switch, laser switch, etc. Processing unit 70 may receive the signal from sensor 74 and determine the position of door 2a.

[0084] Still referencing Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 9 In some embodiments, elevator assembly 1 may include a sensor 80 in electrical communication with processing device 70. Sensor 80 may be configured to sense the length of each of a plurality of suspension members 3 between the traction pulley 5a and the contact point with the elevator car 2, and send a signal to processing device 70. Sensor 80 may be a proximity sensor, toggle switch, limit switch, laser switch, etc. Processing device 70 may receive the signal and determine the current length of the plurality of suspension members 3. In embodiments where the traction pulley 5a is positioned at the top of the hoistway 7, elevator stabilization assembly 10 may be located on a lower floor or landing of the building, wherein the length of the suspension member 3 between the traction pulley and the elevator car 2 is greater than a predetermined length (e.g., the suspension member 3 is under tension and has sufficient length between the traction pulley 5a and the elevator car 2 to allow for vibration or bouncing due to tension and length). In other embodiments, the length may be calculated by the number of floors or landings, thus eliminating the need for a sensor. That is, processing device 70 may be programmed to activate elevator stabilization assembly 10 when the elevator car 2 is at or below a landing number or floor. Alternatively, for the embodiment where the traction pulley 5a is located at the bottom of the shaft 7 ( Figure 1B The processing device 70 can also be programmed to activate the elevator stabilization component 10 when the elevator car 2 is at or below a floor number or floor.

[0085] Now for reference Figures 2-10 An illustrative method 100 for operating the elevator stabilization assembly 10 is shown. Although with... Figure 10 The steps associated with a block will be described as a separate task, but in other embodiments, these blocks may be combined or omitted. Furthermore, although with Figure 10 The block-related steps will be described as being performed in a specific order, but in other embodiments, these steps may be performed in a different order. Additionally, without departing from this disclosure, method 100 may include more or fewer steps than described.

[0086] At block 105, method 100 may include receiving a signal from elevator assembly 1 indicating the position of elevator door 2a, such as from sensor 74, sensor 80, etc. For example, the signal may indicate whether door 2a of elevator car 2 is open, about to open, opening, or in an open position. The signal indicating that door 2a is about to open may be received when elevator car 2 approaches a landing, or when elevator car 2 stops at a landing due to a mechanical delay in the door opening mechanism and waits for door 2a to open. Thus, when door 2a is in multiple positions that are not closed, a signal indicating that door 2a is not in a closed position can be received.

[0087] At block 110, method 100 may alternatively or additionally include receiving signals from sensors 74, 80, etc., indicating the length of the suspension member 3 between the traction pulley 5a and the elevator car 2. In other embodiments, the length of the suspension member 3 between the traction pulley 5a and the point of contact with the elevator car 2, and / or whether this length is equal to or greater than a predetermined length, may be determined based on any one or more of the current floor or landing position of the elevator car 2, and / or the position of the traction pulley 5a within the hoistway 7, or the total length of the suspension member 3 in the elevator system.

[0088] At block 115, the processing device 70 determines the position of the door and the length of the suspension member 3 between the traction pulley 5a and the contact point with the elevator car 2. At block 120, the processing device 70 determines whether the length of the suspension member 3 between the traction pulley 5a and the elevator car 2 meets or exceeds a predetermined length, and at block 125, the processing device 70 determines whether the door 2a is in an open, about to open, opening, or open position. If the predetermined length is not met at block 120, and / or the door 2a is not in an open, about to open, opening, or open position, the processing device 70 can prevent the actuator 12 from being actuated, thereby holding the elevator stabilizing assembly 10 in the disengaged position. It should be understood that if the length of the suspension member 3 between the traction pulley 5a and the elevator car 2 is not equal to or greater than the predetermined length, the processing device 70 can prevent the actuator 12 from being actuated, thereby holding the elevator stabilizing assembly 10 in the disengaged position even if the elevator door 2a is in an open, about to open, or opening position. Furthermore, it should be understood that method 100 may wait and cycle between frames 105 and 125 until it is determined in frames 120 and 125 that the length of the suspension member 3 between the traction pulley 5a and the elevator car 2 is not equal to or greater than the predetermined length, or that it is in the open position.

[0089] At box 130, the processing device 70 activates the actuator 12 to move it from a retracted position to an extended position. The actuator 12 can move the actuating member 13, thereby causing the support member 27 to move toward the guide rail 4 in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the +Y direction). The movement of the support member 27 further causes the stabilizing device 18 to move toward the guide rail 4. Thus, the pair of spaced-apart arms 28 move from a disengaged position to an engaged position. When the actuator 12 is in the extended position, the pair of engaging members 40 contact the guide rail 4, which is positioned between the pair of engaging members 40, thereby displacing the pair of engaging members 40 from a first gap S1 to a second gap S2. In embodiments where the elevator assembly 1 includes a pair of guide rails 4, the pair of engaging members 40 contact portions of the respective guide rails 4, thereby displacing the pair of engaging members 40 from the first gap S1 to the second gap S2, wherein the second gap S1 may be smaller than the first gap S1. In this embodiment where the pair of arms 28 are offset in the same direction, the pair of engaging members 40 can be displaced in the same direction when in contact with the guide rail 4, such that the first spacing S1 and the second spacing S2 are equal.

[0090] In the engaged position, the biasing member 50 applies a biasing force that biases the pair of engaging members 40 toward, against, or to the outer surface of the guide rail 4 in the lateral direction (i.e., in the + / -X direction). When in the engaged position, passengers and / or goods can enter the elevator car 2. The engagement between the pair of engaging members 40 and the guide rail 4 causes friction to be applied to the elevator car 2 in the direction opposite to the travel of the elevator car 2 along the guide rail 4, preventing undesirable vibrations or bouncing movements of the elevator car 2 due to the weight of passengers and / or goods entering / leaving the elevator car. In other words, the friction reduces the amount or amplitude of vibration in the suspension members 3 (e.g., the lifting belt) caused by passengers and / or goods entering / leaving the elevator car 2.

[0091] At block 135, method 100 may include receiving a signal indicating that the door 2a of the elevator car 2 is in the closed position. At block 140, the processing device 70 may move the support member 27 away from the guide rail 4 in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the -Y direction) by moving the actuating member 13 to hold the actuator 12 in the retracted position and / or move the actuator 12 from the extended position to the retracted position. The movement of the support member 27 further causes the stabilizing device 18 to move away from the guide rail 4 in the longitudinal direction (i.e., in the -Y direction). Thus, the pair of spaced-apart arms 28 move from the engaged position to the disengaged position.

[0092] When the actuator 12 is in the retracted position, the pair of engaging members 40 can be spaced apart from the guide rail 4 in the longitudinal direction because the biasing member 50 biases the pair of arms 28 inward toward each other, thereby moving the pair of engaging members 40 to change the space or gap between the pair of engaging members 40 from space S2 to space S1. Once the elevator stabilizing assembly 10 is in an unstable state, the elevator car 2 can move.

[0093] It should be understood that the above describes an elevator stabilization assembly used to dampen and brake the motion of the elevator car and / or dissipate energy. The elevator stabilization assembly includes a stabilizing device and an actuator coupled to the stabilizing device. The stabilizing device includes a pair of spaced-apart arms, a pair of engaging members coupled to the pair of arms, and a positioning member positioned between the pair of arms. A biasing member biases the pair of arms between a disengaged position and an engaged position. The actuator is configured to move the stabilizing device into contact with a fixed component of the hoistway (e.g., a guide rail). Upon contact with the guide rail, the biasing member applies a biasing force to the pair of engaging members, thereby biasing the pair of engaging members into the guide rail. The biasing force increases the friction between the engaging members and the guide rail, which reduces vibration of the elevator car.

[0094] Although specific embodiments have been shown and described herein, it should be understood that various other changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the claimed subject matter. Furthermore, although various aspects of the claimed subject matter have been described herein, these aspects need not be used in combination. Therefore, the appended claims are intended to cover all such changes and modifications within the scope of the claimed subject matter.

Claims

1. An elevator stabilizing assembly for dissipating energy of an elevator assembly, the elevator assembly having an elevator car, a plurality of suspension members, and a fixing member in the shaft, the plurality of suspension members moving the elevator car between a plurality of positions, and the fixing member guiding the elevator car between the plurality of positions within the shaft, the elevator stabilizing assembly comprising: An actuator configured to move between a retracted position and an extended position; and The stabilizing device has the following features: Arm, which has sidewalls; A spacer coupled to the sidewall of the arm; and A biasing member, coupled to and configured to bias the arm. When the actuator moves to the extended position, the biasing member biases the arm in the direction against the fixing member, such that at least a portion of the arm contacts the fixing member of the elevator assembly, and when the actuator moves from the extended position to the retracted position, the arm moves such that at least a portion of the arm is not in contact with the fixing member of the elevator assembly and is held in a predetermined position by the biasing member and the spacer.

2. The elevator stabilizing assembly according to claim 1 further comprises: At least one connecting member coupled to the arm, When the actuator moves to the extended position, at least one engaging member contacts the fixing member.

3. The elevator stabilizing component according to claim 1 further includes: A base component coupled to the actuator; and The arm is pivotally coupled to the base component. When the actuator moves between the extended position and the retracted position, the base member causes the arm to move in the longitudinal direction.

4. The elevator stabilizing assembly according to claim 3 further comprises: Processing device, and A storage medium that communicates with the processing device, wherein the storage medium includes one or more programming instructions that, when executed, cause the processing device to: Determine when the elevator car doors are either about to open or not in the closed position, and The actuator is activated to move the actuator to the extended position and at least a portion of the arm contacts the fixed member.

5. The elevator stabilizing assembly of claim 4, wherein, When the one or more programming instructions are executed, the processing device: Determine when the elevator car door is in the closed position or determine when The lengths of the plurality of suspension components are less than a predetermined length, and The actuator is activated to move to the retracted position and to move the arm to a position where it is no longer in contact with the fixed member.

6. An elevator stabilizing assembly for damping the movement of an elevator car in an elevator assembly, the elevator assembly having the elevator car, a plurality of suspension members, and a fixing member in the shaft, the elevator car being suspended from the plurality of suspension members, the plurality of suspension members moving the elevator car between a plurality of positions, and the fixing member guiding the elevator car between the plurality of positions within the shaft, the elevator stabilizing assembly comprising: An actuator configured to move between a retracted position and an extended position; and The stabilizing device has the following features: A pair of arms, which are pivotally biased by a biasing member positioned between the pair of arms and maintain a predetermined distance between the pair of arms; and A pair of engaging members, one of which is coupled to one of the pair of arms and the other of which is coupled to the other of the pair of arms. The elevator stabilizing assembly is configured to move between an unstable state and a stable state, wherein in the unstable state the actuator is in the retracted position such that the pair of arms are held spaced apart from each other by the biasing member, and in the stable state the actuator is in the extended position such that the biasing member biases each of the pair of arms in a direction abutting against the fixing member such that at least a portion of the pair of engaging members contacts the fixing member of the elevator assembly.

7. The elevator stabilizing assembly according to claim 6, wherein, In the unstable state, the pair of arms move such that the pair of engaging members do not contact the fixing member of the elevator assembly.

8. The elevator stabilizing assembly according to claim 7, wherein, The pair of engaging members are biased in the lateral direction of the biasing member by a biasing force to set the spacing between the pair of engaging members, such that when the actuator is in the extended position, the pair of engaging members contact the fixed member of the elevator assembly.

9. The elevator stabilizing assembly according to claim 6, further comprising: Processing device; and A storage medium that communicates with the processing device, wherein the storage medium includes one or more programming instructions that, when executed, cause the processing device to: Determine when the elevator car doors are in the open position, and The actuator is activated to move to the extended position and to offset each of the pair of arms in the direction abutting the fixed member.

10. The elevator stabilizing assembly according to claim 9, wherein, When the one or more programming instructions are executed, the processing device: Determine when the elevator car doors are in the closed position, and The actuator is activated to move to the retracted position and to move the pair of arms to the disengaged position.

11. The elevator stabilizing assembly according to claim 6, wherein, The stabilizing device further includes: A base component, coupled to the actuator; and Each of the pair of arms is pivotally coupled to the base member. When the actuator moves between the extended position and the retracted position, the base member causes each of the pair of arms to move.

12. The elevator stabilizing assembly according to claim 11, wherein: The base component includes a pair of elongated slots, and Each of the pair of arms includes a first portion and a second portion spaced apart from the first portion, the first portion being positioned within one of the pair of elongated slots, one of the pair of engaging members being coupled to the second portion of one of the pair of arms, and the other of the pair of engaging members being coupled to the second portion of the other of the pair of arms.

13. The elevator stabilizing assembly according to claim 6, further comprising: Mounting members, coupled to the elevator car and the stabilizing device, include recesses configured to adapt to the geometry of the fixing members of the elevator assembly.

14. The elevator stabilizing assembly according to claim 6, wherein, Each of the pair of engaging members is a roller.

15. The elevator stabilizing assembly according to claim 6, wherein, Each of the pair of arms also includes: outer surface; and Sidewalls that extend from the outer surface, The biasing member is coupled to each sidewall of the pair of spaced-apart arms.

16. The elevator stabilizing assembly according to claim 6, wherein, Each of the pair of arms of the stabilizing device further includes: Sidewall; A spacer, coupled to the sidewall and positioned to extend between the pair of arms, and the spacer and the biasing member are configured to limit the distance between the pair of arms and the contact between the pair of engagement members when the actuator is in the retracted position.

17. The elevator stabilizing assembly according to claim 6, wherein, The biasing member biases the pair of engaging members such that the space between the pair of engaging members is less than the width of the contact portion of the track when in the unstable state.

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