Failure detection device and failure detection method for emergency stop device electric actuator

Abstract

Disclosed is a failure detection device for an emergency stop device electric actuator that improves the maintainability of an electric device section. The failure detection device for the emergency stop device electric actuator detects a failure of an electric actuator that is an electric actuator (10) that operates a drive mechanism that drives an elevator emergency stop device, and is provided with: a movable member (34a, 34b, 34c) that is mechanically connected to the drive mechanism; and a first electromagnet (35a) and a second electromagnet (35b) that oppose the movable member. The failure detection device for the emergency stop device electric actuator is provided with: a position detector (109) that detects the position of the movable member; and a controller (103) that detects a failure of the electric actuator based on a position detection signal from the position detector. The controller instructs the energization of the first electromagnet to be cut off at the time of standby of the electric actuator, and then detects a failure of the second electromagnet based on the position detection signal.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a fault detection device and a fault detection method for an electric actuator that operates the drive mechanism of an emergency stop device for an elevator. Background Technology

[0002] In elevator systems, a speed controller and an emergency stop device are included to continuously monitor the car's ascending and descending speed and to bring the car to an emergency stop if it falls into a given overspeed state. Generally, the car and the speed controller are connected by a speed controller rope. If an overspeed state is detected, the speed controller will activate the emergency stop device on the car side by tightening the speed controller rope, thus bringing the car to an emergency stop.

[0003] In such elevator systems, the use of a long governor rope within the elevator shaft makes space-saving and cost-effectiveness difficult to achieve. Furthermore, vibration of the governor rope can easily cause interference to the structures within the elevator shaft and the governor rope itself.

[0004] In contrast, an emergency stop device that operates electrically without using a speed governor rope is proposed. As prior art related to such an emergency stop device, the technology described in Patent Document 1 is known.

[0005] In this prior art, the car is equipped with: a drive shaft for driving an emergency stop device; and an electric actuator for operating the drive shaft. The electric actuator includes: a movable iron core mechanically connected to the drive shaft; and an electromagnet for attracting the movable iron core. The drive shaft is driven by a spring, but normally, because the electromagnet is energized and attracts the movable iron core, the movement of the drive shaft is restricted by the electric actuator.

[0006] In an emergency, the electromagnet is demagnetized, releasing the drive shaft from its restraints. The drive shaft is then driven by the force of the drive spring. This activates the emergency stop device, bringing the car to an emergency stop.

[0007] Furthermore, when returning the emergency stop device to its normal state, the electromagnet is moved closer to the movable iron core that moved during the emergency. The electromagnet has a feed nut that engages with the feed screw shaft. If the feed screw shaft is rotated by a motor, the electromagnet moves toward the movable iron core. When the electromagnet comes into contact with the movable iron core, the movable iron core is attracted to the electromagnet. Then, with the movable iron core attracted to the electromagnet, the electromagnet is moved to return both the movable iron core and the electromagnet to their normal standby position.

[0008] Existing technical documents

[0009] Patent documents

[0010] Patent Document 1: JP 2021-130550 Summary of the Invention

[0011] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0012] In the maintenance of the aforementioned prior art emergency stop devices, it is necessary not only to inspect the mechanical parts such as the brake components (wedges), but also to check the electrical equipment of the electric actuator, such as the electromagnets and motors, for any abnormalities or deterioration. Therefore, in electrically operated emergency stop devices, there is a challenge to improve the maintainability of the electrical equipment.

[0013] Therefore, the present invention provides a fault detection device and a fault detection method for an electric actuator for an emergency stop device that can improve the maintainability of electrical equipment.

[0014] Methods for solving problems

[0015] To address the aforementioned issues, the present invention provides a fault detection device for an electric actuator used in an emergency stop device, wherein the electric actuator operates a drive mechanism for driving an emergency stop device for an elevator and includes: a movable member mechanically connected to the drive mechanism; and a first electromagnet and a second electromagnet opposite to the movable member. The fault detection device for the electric actuator also includes: a position detector for detecting the position of the movable member; and a controller for detecting faults in the electric actuator based on position detection signals from the position detector. The controller, when the electric actuator is in standby mode, commands the first electromagnet to be de-energized, and then detects faults in the second electromagnet based on the position detection signals.

[0016] To address the aforementioned issues, the present invention provides a fault detection method for an electric actuator used in an emergency stop device, wherein the electric actuator operates a drive mechanism for driving an emergency stop device for an elevator and includes: a movable member mechanically connected to the drive mechanism; and a first electromagnet and a second electromagnet opposite to the movable member. When the electric actuator is in standby mode, the energization of the first electromagnet is cut off, and then the fault of the second electromagnet is detected based on the position of the movable member.

[0017] The effects of the invention

[0018] According to the present invention, faults in the electromagnet section can be detected quickly and accurately. Therefore, the maintainability of the electrical equipment section in the electrically operated emergency stop device is improved.

[0019] Other issues, structures, and effects not mentioned above will be clarified through the following description of the implementation methods. Attached Figure Description

[0020] Figure 1 This is a schematic structural diagram of an elevator device according to one embodiment.

[0021] Figure 2This is a top view (standby state) showing the mechanical parts and electrical equipment of the electric actuator 10.

[0022] Figure 3 This is a top view (in operating state) showing the mechanical parts and electrical equipment of the electric actuator 10.

[0023] Figure 4 This is a top view showing the mechanical parts and electrical equipment of the electric actuator 10 (in the process of resuming operation).

[0024] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the fault detection and handling process of the electromagnet part in the embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0025] Hereinafter, an elevator device according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described using the accompanying drawings through examples. Furthermore, in the figures, components with the same reference numerals represent the same components or components having similar functions.

[0026] Figure 1 This is a schematic structural diagram of an elevator device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] like Figure 1 As shown, the elevator system includes a car 1, speed sensors (5, 6), electric actuators 10, drive mechanisms (12-20), lifting rods 21, and an emergency stop device 2.

[0028] The car 1 is suspended in the elevator shaft located in the building by a main rope (not shown), and can be slidably engaged with the guide rail 4 via a guide device. If the main rope is driven by friction by a drive device (traction machine: not shown), the car 1 will rise and fall within the elevator shaft.

[0029] In this embodiment, the speed sensor is mounted on the car 1 and includes a rotary detector 6 and a roller 5 connected to the rotation shaft of the rotary detector 6. In this embodiment, the roller 5 is connected to the rotation shaft of the rotary detector 6 such that the rotation shaft of the roller 5 and the rotation shaft of the rotary detector 6 are coaxial. For example, a rotary encoder can be used as the rotary detector 6.

[0030] Roller 5 contacts guide rail 4. Therefore, if car 1 moves up or down, roller 5 rotates, and thus rotation detector 6 rotates. The safety controller, described later, monitors the travel speed of car 1 based on the rotation position signal output by rotation detector 6 as it rotates.

[0031] Alternatively, an image sensor can be used as the speed sensor. In this case, the position and speed of the car 1 are detected based on image information of the surface state of the guide rail 4 obtained by the image sensor. For example, the speed is calculated based on the distance traveled by image feature quantities over a given time.

[0032] In this embodiment, the electric actuator 10 is an electromagnetic actuator, disposed on the upper part of the car 1. The electromagnetic actuator, for example, includes a movable plate or movable rod that operates via a solenoid or electromagnet. The electric actuator 10 operates when a given overspeed condition of the car 1 is detected by speed sensors (5, 6). At this time, the lifting rod 21 is pulled up by a drive mechanism (12-20) mechanically connected to the operating lever 11. As a result, the emergency stop device 2 is put into a braking state.

[0033] Furthermore, the drive mechanisms (12-20) will be described later.

[0034] One emergency stop device 2 is installed on each side of the car 1. Each emergency stop device 2 has a pair of brake components (not shown) that are movable between a braking position and a non-braking position, clamping the guide rail 4 in the braking position. Furthermore, if the emergency stop device 2 rises relative to the car 1 due to the car 1 descending, braking force is generated by the friction between the brake components and the guide rail 4. Thus, the emergency stop device 2 activates when the car 1 becomes overspeeding, bringing the car 1 to an emergency stop.

[0035] The elevator device of this embodiment has a so-called cordless speed controller system that does not use a speed controller rope. If the lifting speed of the car 1 exceeds the rated speed and reaches a first overspeed (for example, a speed not exceeding 1.3 times the rated speed), the power supply to the drive unit (traction machine) and the power supply to the control device controlling the drive unit are cut off. Furthermore, if the descent speed of the car 1 reaches a second overspeed (for example, a speed not exceeding 1.4 times the rated speed), the electric actuator 10 provided in the car 1 is electrically driven to activate the emergency stop device 2, thereby stopping the car 1 in an emergency.

[0036] In this embodiment, the cordless speed controller system comprises the aforementioned speed sensors (5, 6) and a safety controller that determines the overspeed state of the car 1 based on the output signals of the speed sensors. The safety controller measures the speed of the car 1 based on the output signals of the speed sensors. If it determines that the measured speed has reached a first overspeed, it outputs a command signal to cut off the power to the drive unit (traction machine) and the power to the control device controlling the drive unit. Furthermore, if the safety controller determines that the measured speed has reached a second overspeed, it outputs a command signal to activate the electric actuator 10.

[0037] As described above, if the pair of brakes of the emergency stop device 2 are pulled by the lifting rod 21, the pair of brakes clamp the guide rail 4. The lifting rod 21 is driven by the drive mechanism (12-20) connected to the electric actuator 10.

[0038] The structure of the drive mechanism is described below.

[0039] The operating lever 11 and the first working plate 16 of the electric actuator 10 are connected to form a generally T-shaped first connecting member. The operating lever 11 and the first working plate 16 respectively form the head and leg of the T. The generally T-shaped first connecting member is rotatably supported at the crosshead 50 via the first working shaft 19 at the connection between the operating lever 11 and the first working plate 16. The end of one of a pair of lifting rods 21 (left side in the figure) is connected to the end of the first working plate 16, which forms the leg of the T, opposite to the end of the connection between the operating lever 11 and the first working plate 16.

[0040] Connecting piece 17 and second working piece 18 are connected to form a generally T-shaped second connecting member. Connecting piece 17 and second working piece 18 respectively form the head and leg of the T. The generally T-shaped second connecting member is rotatably supported at the crosshead 50 via the second working shaft 20 at the connection between connecting piece 17 and second working piece 18. The other end (right side in the figure) of a pair of lifting rods 21 is connected to the end of the second working piece 18, which forms the leg of the T, opposite to the connection between connecting piece 17 and second working piece 18.

[0041] The end of the operating lever 11 extending outward from the inside of the housing 30, and the end of the connecting piece 17 that is closer to the upper part of the car 1 than the second working shaft 20, are respectively connected to one end (left side in the figure) and the other end (right side in the figure) of the drive shaft 12, which is horizontally placed on the car 1. The drive shaft 12 slidably passes through the fixing part 14, which is fixed to the crosshead 50. In addition, the drive shaft 12 passes through the pressing member 15, which is fixed to the drive shaft 12. Furthermore, the pressing member 15 is located on the side of the second connecting member (connecting piece 17, second working piece 18) of the fixing part 14. The drive spring 13, which is an elastic body, is located between the fixing part 14 and the pressing member 15, and the drive spring 13 is inserted through the drive shaft 12.

[0042] When the electric actuator 10 is activated, that is, when the energization of the electromagnet in this embodiment is cut off, the electromagnetic force that restrains the movement of the operating lever 11 against the force of the drive spring 13 disappears. Therefore, the drive shaft 12 is driven along its long side by the force of the drive spring 13 applied to the pressing member 15. As a result, the first connecting member (operating lever 11, first working piece 16) rotates about the first working shaft 19, and the second connecting member (connecting piece 17, second working piece 18) rotates about the second working shaft 20. Consequently, the lifting rod 21 connected to the first working piece 16 of the first connecting member is driven and lifted, and the lifting rod 21 connected to the second working piece 18 of the second connecting member is driven and lifted.

[0043] Figure 2 This refers to the mechanical part and electrical equipment part of the electric actuator 10 in this embodiment. Figure 1 The top view in the settings menu. Additionally... Figure 2 The electric actuator 10 shown is in Figure 1 It is stored inside the outer casing 30 ( Figure 3 , 4 (The same applies).

[0044] exist Figure 2 The circuit structure used to control the electrical equipment section is also described in the text. Figure 3 , 4 (The same applies). In Figure 2 In the middle, emergency stop device 2 ( Figure 1 () is in the non-braking state, and the electric actuator 10 is in the standby state. That is, the elevator device is in the normal operating state.

[0045] like Figure 2 As shown, in the standby state, the movable parts (34a, 34b, 34c), which are movable components connected to the operating lever 11, are attracted by electromagnetic force to the electromagnets 35a and 35b, which are energized by energizing the coil. This counteracts the force transmitted via the drive shaft 12 ( Figure 1 ) and the driving spring 13 acting on the movable part by the operating lever 11. Figure 1 The force F acting against the drive spring 13 restrains the movement of the movable part. Therefore, the electric actuator 10 restrains the drive mechanism (12-20) by resisting the force of the drive spring 13. Figure 1 (Activities)

[0046] The movable part includes: an adsorption portion 34a that is adsorbed onto the magnetic pole surfaces of electromagnets 35a and 35b; and a support portion 34b that is fixed to the adsorption portion 34a and connected to the operating lever 11. The operating lever 11 is rotatably connected to the support portion 34b of the movable part via a connecting bracket 38. In the electric actuator 10, a movable part detection switch 109 is provided at the position where the adsorption portion 34a of the movable part is located when in standby mode.

[0047] The movable member also has a cam portion 34c fixed to the adsorption portion 34a. When the movable member is in the standby position, the movable member detection switch 109 is operated by the cam portion 34c. If the movable member detection switch 109 is operated by the cam portion 34c, it transitions from an on state to an off state, or from an off state to an on state. Therefore, it is possible to detect whether the movable member is in the standby position according to the state of the movable member detection switch 109. In this embodiment, the safety controller 103 determines whether the movable member is in the standby position based on the state of the movable member detection switch 109.

[0048] In this embodiment, at least the adsorption part 34a in the movable parts (34a, 34b, 34c) contains a magnetic material. Soft magnetic materials such as low-carbon steel or permalloy (iron-nickel alloy) are preferably used as the magnetic material.

[0049] about Figure 2 Other departments (36, 37, 39, 41) will be described later.

[0050] Electromagnets 35a and 35b are energized by a DC power supply 111. In the energizing circuit of electromagnet 35a, one end of the coil of electromagnet 35a is connected to the high-potential side of DC power supply 111 via series-connected electrical contacts 104a and 105a and fuse 107a, and the other end of the coil of electromagnet 35a is connected to the low-potential side of DC power supply 111. In the energizing circuit of electromagnet 35b, one end of the coil of electromagnet 35b is connected to the high-potential side of DC power supply 111 via series-connected electrical contacts 104b and 105b and fuse 107b, and the other end of the coil of electromagnet 35b is connected to the low-potential side of DC power supply 111.

[0051] In addition, fuses 107a and 107b are installed in the excitation circuit for overcurrent protection of electromagnets 35a and 35b, respectively.

[0052] Electrical contacts 104a, 105a, 104b, and 105b are controlled to be switched on / off by safety controller 103. In the standby state of the electric actuator 10, safety controller 103 controls electrical contacts 104a, 105a, 104b, and 105b to be switched on. Consequently, since the coils of electromagnets 35a and 35b are energized, electromagnets 35a and 35b generate electromagnetic force.

[0053] Furthermore, electrical contacts 104a, 105a, 104b, and 105b are each composed of contacts found in electromagnetic relays, electromagnetic contactors, electromagnetic switches, etc. Additionally, in each excitation circuit of electromagnets 35a and 35b, multiple ( Figure 2 The two electrical contacts are connected in series, so even if a connection failure occurs at one contact when multiple contacts are controlled to the open state to activate the emergency stop device 2, as described later, the energization of the electromagnet will be cut off. Therefore, the reliability of the operation of the electric actuator 10 is improved. Furthermore, a connection failure can occur, for example, through the welding of the contacts.

[0054] In addition, each excitation circuit can have only one electrical contact.

[0055] Regarding other electrical equipment sections (37, 112), details will follow. Figure 3 , 4 Furthermore, signal lines 106a and 106b are used to input the response signal when the electromagnets 35a and 35b are fault-detected to the safety controller 103. The response signal will be described later. Figure 5 ).

[0056] Figure 3 This refers to the mechanical part and electrical equipment part of the electric actuator 10 in this embodiment. Figure 1 The top view in the settings menu. Figure 3 In the middle, emergency stop device 2 ( Figure 1 () is the braking state, and the electric actuator 10 is in the working state. That is, the elevator device is stopped by the emergency stop device 2.

[0057] If the safety controller 103 detects a given overspeed state (the aforementioned second overspeed) of the car 1 based on the rotational position signal from the rotational detector 6, it outputs a disconnect command to each of the electrical contacts 104a, 105a, 104b, and 105b. Through the disconnect command, the electrical contacts 104a, 105a, 104b, and 105b transition from the on state to the off state. Therefore, since the excitation of the electromagnets 35a and 35b stops, the electromagnetic force acting on the movable parts (34a, 34b, 34c) disappears. Consequently, the attraction of the movable part 34a to the electromagnets 35a and 35b is released, and the movable part is released by the force of the drive spring 13. Figure 2 (F in the middle) and from the position in standby mode ( Figure 1 It moves in the direction of the force of the driving spring 13 (to the right in the figure).

[0058] With the release of the restraints on the movable part, the pressing member 15 of the drive shaft 12 ( Figure 1 The force received by the fixed part 14 ( Figure 1 ) to the pressing component ( Figure 1 ) direction of drive spring 13 ( Figure 1 The force of the action of the first connecting member (operating lever 11 and first working plate 16) drives the drive shaft 12. Figure 1 ) around the first working axis 19 ( Figure 1 ) rotates. This causes the lifting rod 21 (connected to the first working piece 16) to rotate. Figure 1 The second connecting member (connecting piece 17 and the second working piece 18) connected to the drive shaft 12 is lifted. Furthermore, if the drive shaft 12 is driven, the second connecting member (connecting piece 17 and the second working piece 18) connected to the drive shaft 12 is lifted. Figure 1 ) around the second working axis 20 ( Figure 1 ) rotates. This causes the lifting rod 21 (connected to the second working piece 18) to rotate. Figure 1 ) was lifted up.

[0059] Figure 4 This refers to the mechanical part and electrical equipment part of the electric actuator 10 in this embodiment. Figure 1 The top view in the settings menu. Figure 4In the middle, the electric actuator 10 is in the process of resuming operation. Additionally, the elevator system is in the process of resuming operation, and the emergency stop device 2 has been released from its braking state.

[0060] In order to restore the electric work machine 10 to Figure 2 The standby state shown is as follows, via... Figure 2 The mechanical parts (36, 37, 39, 41) and electrical equipment parts (37, 112), which are omitted from the description, are used to move the movable parts (34a, 34b, 34c) from the moving position. Figure 3 Return to standby position ( Figure 2 ).

[0061] like Figure 4 As shown, the electric actuator 10 has a feed screw 36 for driving the movable parts. The feed screw 36 is coaxially connected to the rotation shaft of the electric motor 37 and is rotatably supported by the support member 41. Electromagnets 35a and 35b are fixed to an electromagnet support plate 39 having a feed nut portion (not shown). The feed nut portion in the electromagnet support plate 39 is screwed onto the feed screw 36. The feed screw 36 is rotated by the electric motor 37. The rotation drive of the electric motor 37 is controlled by the electric motor controller 112.

[0062] To return the electric actuator 10 to standby mode, firstly, the drive motor 37 is used to rotate the feed screw 36. The rotation of the feed screw 36 and the feed nut portion of the electromagnet support plate 39 convert the rotation of the motor 37 into linear movement of the electromagnets 35a and 35b along the axial direction of the feed screw 36. As a result, the electromagnets 35a and 35b move closer to... Figure 3 The moving positions of the movable parts (34a, 34b, 34c) shown are as follows: Figure 4 It abuts against the movable part as shown.

[0063] The motor controller 112 monitors the motor current for controlling the motor 37. If electromagnets 35a and 35b come into contact with the movable parts as described above, the load on the motor 37 increases, and therefore the motor current increases. If the motor current increases beyond a given value, the motor controller 112 determines that electromagnets 35a and 35b are in contact with the movable parts. The motor controller 112 sends this determination to the safety controller 103. If the safety controller 103 receives the determination from the motor controller 112, it outputs a closing command to each of the electrical contacts 104a, 105a, 104b, and 105b. Through the closing command, the electrical contacts 104a, 105a, 104b, and 105b transition from an open state to a closed state. Therefore, electromagnets 35a and 35b are energized.

[0064] The movable part 34a is attracted to the electromagnets 35a and 35b by the electromagnetic force generated by the excitation of the electromagnets 35a and 35b. If the movable part is attracted to the electromagnets 35a and 35b, the motor controller 112 reverses the rotation direction of the motor 37, causing the feed screw 36 to reverse. Thus, while receiving the force F' from the drive spring 13, the movable part moves together with the electromagnets 35a and 35b towards... Figure 4 The direction of arrow A in the diagram indicates the position movement during standby.

[0065] If the movable part reaches the standby position, the movable part detection switch 109 is activated by the cam portion 34c of the movable part. If the movable part detection switch 109 is activated, the safety controller 103 determines that the movable part is in the standby position. The safety controller 103 sends this determination result to the motor controller 112. If the motor controller 112 receives the determination result, it stops the rotation of the motor 37.

[0066] In addition, the output capacitance of the motor 37 is set by taking into account the friction between the feed screw 36 and the feed nut caused by the weight of the electromagnets 35a, 35b and the movable parts, as well as the force of the drive spring 13.

[0067] In this embodiment, each of the electromagnets 35a and 35b possesses an electromagnetic force sufficient to counteract the force of the drive spring 13 and restrain the movement of the movable part, even if only one of the electromagnets 35a and 35b fails. Therefore, even if one of the electromagnets 35a and 35b fails, the operation of the emergency stop device 2 can be maintained. This improves the reliability of the operation of the electric actuator 10.

[0068] In addition, through Figure 3 as well as Figure 4 The operation of the electric actuator 10 described herein also applies during a power outage.

[0069] Next, the means for detecting faults in the electromagnet part of the electric work machine 10 will be explained.

[0070] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the fault detection and handling process of the electromagnet section in this embodiment.

[0071] In this embodiment, the fault detection and processing is mainly handled by the safety controller 103 ( Figure 2 In addition, in this embodiment, the safety controller 103 performs fault detection processing by executing a given program using a computer system such as a microcomputer.

[0072] The following is for reference. Figure 2 To explain Figure 5 .in addition, Figure 5 The fault detection and handling shown is performed periodically. In addition, the electric actuator 10 is in standby mode. Figure 2 ).

[0073] If the safety controller 103 begins processing, it first detects the speed of the car 1 in step S1 based on the signal from the rotation detector 6 of the speed sensor, and then determines whether the speed detection value of the car 1 is zero. Here, the safety controller 103 determines whether the car 1 is stopped.

[0074] In addition, the safety controller 103 can determine whether the car 1 is stopped based on data related to the operating status of the car 1 obtained from the elevator control device that controls the operation of the elevator device.

[0075] If the safety controller 103 determines that the speed detection value of the car 1 is not zero (step S1 "No"), it ends a series of processes. If it determines that the speed detection value of the car 1 is zero (step S1 "Yes"), it then executes step S2.

[0076] In step S2, the safety controller 103 sends a disconnect command to the electrical contact 104a in order to disconnect the electrical contact 104a. Additionally, in Figure 5 In Chinese, "electrical contact" is written as "contact".

[0077] If safety controller 103 has executed step S2, then it will proceed to step S3.

[0078] In step S3, the safety controller 103 determines whether the output of the response (106a), that is, the response signal output from the signal line 106a to the safety controller 103, is LOW (low potential).

[0079] In step S3, the output of the response (106a) can be considered as a response signal of the excitation circuit of the electromagnet 35a to the disconnection command of the electrical contact 104a. This response signal represents the potential of the end of the coil of the electromagnet 35a connected to the high-potential side of the DC power supply 111 via electrical contacts 104a and 105a. Therefore, when the electrical contact 104a is normally disconnected in response to the disconnection command, the output of the response signal (106a) becomes equal to the potential of the other end of the coil connected to the low-potential side of the DC power supply 111, thus showing LOW (low potential). Furthermore, when the electrical contact 104a is not normally disconnected in response to the disconnection command, i.e., when the electrical contact 104a is faulty, the output of the response signal (106a) is not LOW (low potential), but rather represents the potential of the high-potential side of the DC power supply 111 (HIGH (high potential)).

[0080] Thus, in step S3, the safety controller 103 determines whether the electrical contact 104a is normal.

[0081] If the safety controller 103 determines in step S3 that the output of the response (106a) is LOW (low potential) (step S3 "Yes"), then it proceeds to step S5; if it determines that it is not LOW (low potential) (step S3 "No"), then it proceeds to step S4.

[0082] In step S4, the safety controller 103 determines that the electrical contact 104a is faulty. If the safety controller 103 executes step S4, then... Figure 5 As shown by the connector 'a' in the diagram, step S19 (described later) is then executed.

[0083] In step S5, the safety controller 103 sends an on command to connect electrical contact 104a and an off command to disconnect electrical contact 105a. If the safety controller 103 has executed step S5, it then proceeds to step S6.

[0084] In step S6, the safety controller 103 determines, in the same way as in step S3, whether the output of the response (106a), that is, the response signal output from the signal line 106a to the safety controller 103, is LOW (low potential).

[0085] In step S6, the output of response (106a) can be considered as a response signal of the excitation circuit of electromagnet 35a to the disconnection command of electrical contact 105a. When electrical contact 105a normally disconnects in response to the disconnection command, the output of response (106a) indicates LOW (low potential). Furthermore, when electrical contact 105a fails to disconnect normally in response to the disconnection command, i.e., when there is a fault in the connection of electrical contact 105a, the output of response (106a) is not LOW (low potential), but rather indicates the potential of the high-potential side of the DC power supply 111 (HIGH (high potential)).

[0086] Thus, in step S6, the safety controller 103 determines whether the electrical contact 105a is normal.

[0087] If the safety controller 103 determines in step S6 that the output of the response (106a) is LOW (low potential) (step S6 "Yes"), then proceed to step S7; if it determines that it is not LOW (low potential) (step S6 "No"), then proceed to step S8.

[0088] In step S7, the safety controller 103 determines that the electrical contact 105a is faulty. If the safety controller 103 executes step S7, then... Figure 5 As shown by the connector 'a' in the diagram, step S19 (described later) is then executed.

[0089] In step S8, the safety controller 103 determines whether the movable part detection switch 109 is turned on. That is, the safety controller 103 determines whether the movable parts (34a, 34b, 34c) are in a given standby position. Here, the movable part detection switch 109 is turned on if it is operated by the cam portion 34c in the movable part.

[0090] If the safety controller 103 determines that the movable part detection switch 109 is turned on (step S8 "Yes"), then step S10 is executed next; if it determines that it is not turned on, that is, turned off (step S8 "No"), then step S9 is executed next.

[0091] In step S9, the safety controller 103 determines whether the fault is due to a malfunction in electromagnet 35b or a disconnection fault in either electrical contact 104b or 105b.

[0092] Since the movable element detection switch 109 is determined to be not connected in step S8, the positions of the movable elements (34a, 34b, 34c) deviate from the given standby position. The main reason for this is that, in step S5, electrical contact 105a is open, and electromagnet 35a is not energized. Therefore, this results in a reduction in the electromagnetic force of electromagnet 35b, or electromagnet 35b being de-energized. Thus, it can be determined whether the fault lies with electromagnet 35b or with either electrical contact 104b or 105b being open.

[0093] If safety controller 103 executes step S9, then as follows: Figure 5 As shown by the connector 'a' in the diagram, step S19 (described later) is then executed.

[0094] In steps S1 to S9 described above, the safety controller 103 detects faults in electromagnet 35b, connection faults in electrical contacts 104a and 105a in the excitation circuit of electromagnet 35a, and disconnection faults in electrical contacts 104b and 105b in the excitation circuit of electromagnet 35b. Furthermore, as described below, after step S10, the safety controller 103 detects faults in electromagnet 35a, connection faults in electrical contacts 104b and 105b in the excitation circuit of electromagnet 35b, and disconnection faults in electrical contacts 104a and 105a in the excitation circuit of electromagnet 35a.

[0095] In step S10, the safety controller 103 sends an on command to connect electrical contact 105a and an off command to disconnect electrical contact 104b. If the safety controller 103 has executed step S10, it then proceeds to step S11.

[0096] In step S11, the safety controller 103 determines whether the output of the response (106b), that is, the response signal output from the signal line 106b to the safety controller 103, is LOW (low potential).

[0097] In step S11, the output of the response (106b) can be considered as a response signal of the excitation circuit of the electromagnet 35b to the disconnection command of the electrical contact 104b. This response signal represents the potential of the end of the coil of the electromagnet 35b connected to the high-potential side of the DC power supply 111 via electrical contacts 104b and 105b. Therefore, when the electrical contact 104b normally disconnects in response to the disconnection command, the output of the response signal (106b) becomes equal to the potential of the other end of the coil connected to the low-potential side of the DC power supply 111, thus representing LOW (low potential). Furthermore, when the electrical contact 104b does not normally disconnect in response to the disconnection command, i.e., when the electrical contact 104b is faulty, the output of the response signal (106b) is not LOW (low potential), but rather represents the potential of the high-potential side of the DC power supply 111 (HIGH (high potential)).

[0098] Thus, in step S11, the safety controller 103 determines whether the electrical contact 104b is normal.

[0099] If the safety controller 103 determines in step S11 that the output of the response (106b) is LOW (low potential) (step S11 "Yes"), then proceed to step S13; if it determines that it is not LOW (low potential) (step S11 "No"), then proceed to step S12.

[0100] In step S12, the safety controller 103 determines that the electrical contact 104b is faulty. If the safety controller 103 executes step S12, then... Figure 5 As shown by the connector 'a' in the diagram, step S19 (described later) is then executed.

[0101] In step S13, the safety controller 103 sends an on command to the electrical contact 104b in order to connect the electrical contact 104b, and sends an off command to the electrical contact 105b in order to disconnect the electrical contact 105b. If the safety controller 103 has executed step S13, it then proceeds to step S14.

[0102] In step S14, the safety controller 103 determines, in the same way as in step S11, whether the output of the response (106b), that is, the response signal output from the signal line 106b to the safety controller 103, is LOW (low potential).

[0103] In step S14, the output of response (106b) can be considered as a response signal of the excitation circuit of electromagnet 35b to the disconnect command of electrical contact 105b. If electrical contact 105b normally disconnects in response to the disconnect command, the output of response (106b) indicates LOW (low potential). Furthermore, if electrical contact 105b does not normally disconnect in response to the disconnect command, i.e., if electrical contact 105b is faulty, the output of response (106b) is not LOW (low potential), but rather indicates the potential of the high-potential side of DC power supply 111 (HIGH (high potential)).

[0104] Thus, in step S14, the safety controller 103 determines whether the electrical contact 105b is normal.

[0105] If the safety controller 103 determines in step S14 that the output of the response (106b) is LOW (low potential) (step S14 "Yes"), then proceed to step S16; if it determines that it is not LOW (low potential) (step S14 "No"), then proceed to step S15.

[0106] In step S15, the safety controller 103 determines that the electrical contact 105b is faulty. If the safety controller 103 executes step S15, then... Figure 5 As shown by the connector 'a' in the diagram, step S19 (described later) is then executed.

[0107] In step S16, the safety controller 103 determines whether the movable part detection switch 109 is turned on. That is, the safety controller 103 determines whether the movable parts (34a, 34b, 34c) are in a given standby position. Here, the movable part detection switch 109 is turned on if it is operated by the cam portion 34c in the movable part.

[0108] If the safety controller 103 determines that the movable part detection switch 109 is turned on (step S16 "Yes"), then proceed to step S18. If it determines that the switch is not turned on, i.e., turned off (step S16 "No"), then proceed to step S17.

[0109] In step S17, the safety controller 103 determines whether the fault is due to electromagnet 35a or either electrical contact 104a or 105a being disconnected.

[0110] Since the movable element detection switch 109 is determined to be not connected in step S16, the positions of the movable elements (34a, 34b, 34c) deviate from the given standby position. The main reason for this is that, because the electrical contact 105b is open in step S13, the electromagnet 35b is not energized, resulting in a decrease in the electromagnetic force of the electromagnet 35a, or the electromagnet 35a being de-energized. Therefore, it can be determined whether the fault lies with the electromagnet 35a or either of the electrical contacts 104a or 105a.

[0111] If safety controller 103 executes step S17, then... Figure 5 As shown by the connector 'a' in the diagram, step S19 (described later) is then executed.

[0112] In step S18, since the safety controller S18 determines that electromagnets 35a and 35b and electrical contacts 104a, 105a, 104b, and 105b are not faulty at the time point of executing step S18 to send a connection command to electrical contact 105b in order to connect electrical contact 105b, in step S18, the electric actuator 10 is restored to its normal standby state by connecting electrical contact 105b.

[0113] If the safety controller 103 executes step S18, then the series of processes ends.

[0114] As described above, if the safety controller 103 has executed any of steps S4, S7, S9, S12, S15, or S17, then it will proceed to step S19.

[0115] In step S19, the safety controller 103 sends disconnect commands to electrical contacts 104a, 105a, 104b, and 105b respectively. As a result, the energization of electromagnets 35a and 35b is cut off.

[0116] At the point of execution of step S19, since it is determined that any of the electromagnets 35a and 35b and the electrical contacts 104a, 105a, 104b and 105b are faulty, in step S19, in order to prepare for maintenance work, the energization of electromagnets 35a and 35b is cut off to put the electric worker 10 into a rest state.

[0117] If the safety controller 103 executes step S19, it ends the series of processes.

[0118] Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the foregoing embodiments and includes various modifications. For example, the foregoing embodiments have been described in detail for ease of understanding of the present invention, but are not necessarily limited to having all the described structures. In addition, other structures can be added, deleted, or replaced in a part of the structure of the embodiments.

[0119] For example, the electric actuator 10 can be located not only at the top of the car 1, but also at the bottom or side.

[0120] In addition, elevator units can have a machine room or be so-called machine room-less elevators without a machine room.

[0121] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0122] 1...Car, 2...Emergency stop device, 3...Position sensor, 4...Guide rail, 5...Roller, 6...Rotation detector, 10...Electric actuator, 11...Operating lever, 12...Drive shaft, 13...Drive spring, 14...Fixing part, 15...Pressing member, 16...First working plate, 17...Connecting plate, 18...Second working plate, 19...First working shaft, 20...Second working shaft, 21...Lifting rod, 30...Outer shell, 34a...Adsorption part, 34b... Support section, 34c...cam section, 35a, 35b...electromagnet, 36...feed screw, 37...motor, 38...connecting bracket, 39...electromagnet support plate, 41...support component, 50...crosshead, 103...safety controller, 104a, 105a, 104b, 105b...electrical contacts, 106a, 106b...signal lines, 107a, 107b...fuse, 109...movable part detection switch, 111...DC power supply, 112...motor controller.

Claims

1. A fault detection device for an electric actuator used in an emergency stop device, for detecting faults in the electric actuator, wherein the electric actuator operates a drive mechanism that drives the emergency stop device for an elevator, the electric actuator comprising: a movable member mechanically connected to the drive mechanism; and a first electromagnet and a second electromagnet opposite to the movable member. The fault detection device for the electric actuator of the emergency stop device is characterized in that... The fault detection device for the electric actuator of the emergency stop device includes: A position detector that detects the position of the movable part; and A controller that detects faults in the electric actuator based on position detection signals from the position detector. When the electric actuator is in standby mode, the controller commands the first electromagnet to be de-energized, and then detects a fault in the second electromagnet based on the position detection signal.

2. The fault detection device for the electric actuator of the emergency stop device according to claim 1, wherein, If the controller determines, based on the position detection signal, that the position of the movable part has deviated from the position during standby, the controller determines that the second electromagnet is faulty.

3. The fault detection device for the electric actuator of the emergency stop device according to claim 2, wherein, The position detector is located at the standby position of the movable member.

4. The fault detection device for the electric actuator of the emergency stop device according to claim 3, wherein, The position detector is composed of a position detection switch. The position detection switch is operated by the cam portion of the movable member.

5. The fault detection device for the electric actuator of the emergency stop device according to claim 1, wherein, The controller detects faults in the electrical contacts of the excitation circuit of the first electromagnet based on the response signal from the excitation circuit of the first electromagnet in response to the controller command to cut off the energization of the first electromagnet.

6. The fault detection device for the electric actuator of the emergency stop device according to claim 5, wherein, In the excitation circuit, one end of the coil of the first electromagnet is connected to the high-potential side of the DC power supply via the electrical contact, and the other end of the coil is connected to the low-potential side of the DC power supply. The response signal represents the potential at one end of the coil.

7. A method for detecting faults in an electric actuator for an emergency stop device, wherein the electric actuator operates a drive mechanism for driving an emergency stop device for an elevator, and comprises: a movable member mechanically connected to the drive mechanism; and a first electromagnet and a second electromagnet opposite to the movable member. The fault detection method for the electric actuator of the emergency stop device is characterized in that... When the electric actuator is in standby mode, the energization of the first electromagnet is cut off. Next, the fault of the second electromagnet is detected based on the position of the movable part.

8. The fault detection method for the electric actuator of the emergency stop device according to claim 7, wherein, If the position of the movable part deviates from the position during standby, the second electromagnet is determined to be faulty.

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