Device and method for replacing elevator suspension rope

Abstract

A device (100) for replacing an elevator suspension rope (4), comprising an elevator shaft (1); and an elevator having a car (2), a lifting machine (3), one or more suspension ropes (4) and a counterweight (5); the car and the counterweight are suspended by said one or more ropes (4) adapted to be guided over a traction pulley (8) comprised by a machine (3) for moving the car (2) along the elevator shaft (1); wherein the car (2) and the counterweight (5) are arranged at any vertical height in the shaft (1) when the one or more ropes (4) are replaced. A method for replacing an elevator suspension rope (4) in the device (100).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to replacing the suspension ropes of a lift. The lift is preferably a lift for transporting passengers and / or freight. Background Art

[0002] For a variety of reasons, it may be necessary to replace one or more of the suspension ropes in a lift.

[0003] Reasons for replacing a rope may include rope damage, for example due to manufacturing errors, mishandling during installation or maintenance, the rope striking shaft equipment or objects between the rope and the pulley.

[0004] Known methods can be time consuming and inefficient. Practical experience in high-rise buildings shows that most of the total time required for rope replacement is spent on preparation work - especially pit preparation work, such as erecting scaffolding, securing compensating ropes and lifting compensators. It may take 4 to 5 working days to prepare the hoist for rope replacement and return it to service. In contrast, the rope replacement work itself may take only 2 hours. Depending on the hoist and the number of ropes to be replaced, the time spent on the rope replacement work itself can account for only 5% to 10% of the total operation time. The time required for the entire operation can be so long that the hoist has to be out of service for several days, causing difficulties and financial losses to the customer. The elevator downtime also has a negative impact on passengers. Summary of the invention

[0005] The object of the present invention is to propose an improved device and method for replacing the suspension ropes of an elevator.

[0006] A new device for replacing the suspension ropes of an elevator is proposed, the device comprising an elevator shaft; and an elevator having a car, a hoisting machinery, one or more suspension ropes and a counterweight; the car and the counterweight are suspended by the one or more ropes, the ropes being adapted to be guided over a traction sheave comprised by machinery for moving the car along the elevator shaft. When replacing the one or more ropes, the car and the counterweight are arranged at any vertical height in the shaft.

[0007] Preferred further details of the invention are presented below, which further details may be combined individually or in any combination.

[0008] In a preferred embodiment the car is arranged to be movable during rope replacement.

[0009] In a preferred embodiment, the one or more ropes are adapted to be released one rope at a time.

[0010] In a preferred embodiment, the device comprises at least one reel for new rope, which at least one reel is arranged on the uppermost landing of the shaft or on the car roof or inside the car for new rope delivery.

[0011] In a preferred embodiment, the device comprises a cutter or at least one reel for old ropes, which is arranged on the lowest level of the shaft for old rope disposal.

[0012] In a preferred embodiment, the cutout in the path of the rope to be replaced is arranged to be protected or covered.

[0013] In a preferred embodiment, the device comprises a tool for holding and lengthening the rope during its removal and installation, said tool comprising a hoisting machine and a rope gripper to be installed between one suspension rope and the car.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment, the device comprises a rope winding device with a friction roller, which rope winding device is arranged in connection with a machine for forming a means for moving the rope to be replaced.

[0015] In a preferred embodiment, friction reducing rollers are arranged in connection with the traction sheave for forming means for friction reduction.

[0016] In a preferred embodiment, a twist stopper tool is placed in the path of the rope.

[0017] In a preferred embodiment, a rope guiding tool is arranged on the uppermost landing of the shaft for guiding the rope.

[0018] In a preferred embodiment, a rope guiding tool is arranged on the lowermost landing of the shaft for guiding the rope.

[0019] In a preferred embodiment, a rope storage unit with at least one rope reel is arranged on the uppermost landing of the shaft for storing and winding up the rope.

[0020] In a preferred embodiment, a rope storage unit with at least one rope reel is arranged on the lowermost landing of the shaft for storing and winding up the rope.

[0021] In a preferred embodiment the car is arranged to be moved using the inspection drive at any stage of rope replacement.

[0022] In a preferred embodiment, the end of the old rope is adapted to be brought from the counterweight to the lowermost landing of the shaft, and the new rope is adapted to be moved from the landing to the counterweight without accessing the shaft.

[0023] In a preferred embodiment, the one or more ropes are adapted to be replaced one rope at a time.

[0024] In a preferred embodiment, one or more ropes are simultaneously adapted to be released at the car end.

[0025] In a preferred embodiment, the low friction coating is adapted to be applied on the traction sheave.In a preferred embodiment, the low friction coating is adapted to be applied on the diverting sheave.

[0026] In a preferred embodiment, the rope ends at the car ends are adapted to be removed when the car is in a mid-position in the shaft.

[0027] In a preferred embodiment, the counterweight rope ends are adapted to be removed when the car is located in a position in the hoistway that allows access to the counterweight rope ends from the roof of the car.

[0028] In a preferred embodiment, the car 2 is adapted to be moved to the uppermost landing in the shaft for joining the old and new ropes.

[0029] In a preferred embodiment, the new rope is adapted to be connected end-to-end to the old rope using a web clamp.

[0030] In a preferred embodiment, the old rope is adapted to be guided to the lowermost landing of the shaft and at the same time the new rope is adapted to be fed from the uppermost landing.

[0031] In a preferred embodiment, the counterweight rope ends are adapted to be secured to the counterweight when the car is located in a position in the hoistway that allows access to the counterweight rope ends from the roof of the car.

[0032] In a preferred embodiment, the rope ends at the ends of the car are adapted to be fixed in position when the car is in a bottom position in the shaft.

[0033] In a preferred embodiment, the rope to be replaced comprises a load-bearing part made of a composite material comprising reinforcing fibers consisting of carbon fibers or glass fibers in a polymer matrix.

[0034] A new method for replacing the suspension ropes of an elevator in any of the arrangements described above is also proposed, comprising

[0035] When replacing the rope or ropes, the car and the counterweight are arranged at any vertical height in the shaft.

[0036] Preferred further details of the invention are presented below, which further details may be combined individually or in any combination.

[0037] In a preferred embodiment, the method comprises arranging the car to be movable during rope replacement.

[0038] In a preferred embodiment, the method comprises releasing one or more suspension ropes at a time.

[0039] In a preferred embodiment, the method comprises arranging at least one reel for new rope on the uppermost landing of the shaft or on the car roof or inside the car for new rope delivery.

[0040] In a preferred embodiment, the method comprises arranging a cutter on the lowest level of the shaft for old rope disposal. In a preferred embodiment, the method comprises arranging at least one old rope reel on the lowest level of the shaft for old rope disposal.

[0041] In a preferred embodiment, the method comprises protecting or covering the cut in the rope path to be replaced.

[0042] In a preferred embodiment, the method includes holding and lengthening the rope during removal and installation by means of a hoisting machine and a rope gripper installed between one suspension rope and the car.

[0043] In a preferred embodiment, the method comprises moving a rope to be replaced by a rope winding device having a friction roller connected to the machine.

[0044] In a preferred embodiment, the method comprises reducing friction by means of a friction reducing roller arranged in connection with the traction sheave.

[0045] In a preferred embodiment, the method includes placing a twist stopper tool in the path of the rope.

[0046] In a preferred embodiment, the method comprises guiding the rope by a rope guiding tool, which is arranged on the uppermost landing of the shaft. In a preferred embodiment, the method comprises guiding the rope by a rope guiding tool, which is arranged on the lowermost landing of the shaft.

[0047] In a preferred embodiment, the method comprises storing and winding the rope by means of a rope storage unit having at least one rope reel, which is arranged on the uppermost landing of the shaft. In a preferred embodiment, the method comprises storing and winding the rope by means of a rope storage unit having at least one rope reel, which is arranged on the lowermost landing of the shaft.

[0048] In a preferred embodiment, the method comprises moving the car using the inspection drive at any stage of rope replacement.

[0049] In a preferred embodiment, the method comprises bringing the end of the old rope from the counterweight to the lowermost landing, and / or moving the new rope from the landing to the counterweight, without the need to access the shaft.

[0050] In a preferred embodiment, the method comprises replacing one or more suspension ropes at a time.

[0051] In a preferred embodiment, the method comprises applying a low friction coating on the traction sheave. In a preferred embodiment, the method comprises applying a low friction coating on the diverting sheave.

[0052] In a preferred embodiment, the method comprises removing the rope ends at the ends of the car when the car is in a midway position in the shaft.

[0053] In a preferred embodiment, the method includes removing the counterweight rope ends when the car is in a position in the hoistway that allows access to the counterweight rope ends from a roof of the car.

[0054] In a preferred embodiment, the method comprises moving the car to an uppermost landing in the shaft for engaging the old ropes and the new ropes.

[0055] In a preferred embodiment, the method includes connecting the new rope end-to-end to the old rope with a mesh clamp.

[0056] In a preferred embodiment, the method comprises guiding the old rope to the lowermost landing of the shaft and simultaneously feeding the new rope from the uppermost landing.

[0057] In a preferred embodiment, the method includes securing the counterweight rope end to the counterweight when the car is in a position in the hoistway that allows access to the counterweight rope end from a ceiling of the car.

[0058] In a preferred embodiment, the method comprises securing the rope ends at the ends of the car in position when the car is in a bottom position in the shaft.

[0059] The method and device described increase safety during the replacement process, since the elevator car can be moved using the inspection drive at any stage of the replacement method.

[0060] When the car and counterweight are in the middle of the shaft, the ropes can be changed from the car roof. Work done in the pit, such as securing the compensating ropes, erecting scaffolding, and lifting the compensator, can be omitted, saving a lot of time.

[0061] The new method and device are suitable for replacing one or more suspension ropes.

[0062] Omitting most of the preparatory work, such as that done in the pit, enables rapid rope changes to be performed at night to minimize elevator downtime and disadvantages to passengers and customers.

[0063] The new method and device aim to significantly reduce the time required to change ropes compared to the current situation.

[0064] The new method and device allow a quick replacement of the suspension ropes, since no extensive preparation work is required. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0065] The present invention will be described in more detail below by means of preferred embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0066] Figure 1 A device for replacing the suspension rope of an elevator is shown.

[0067] Figure 2 A rope storage unit having three rope reels is shown,

[0068] Figure 3 A tool for stopping the twisting of a rope is shown.

[0069] Figure 4 A tool for friction reduction is shown,

[0070] Figure 5 A tool for winding a rope is shown,

[0071] Figure 6 A tool for guiding a rope is shown,

[0072] Figure 7 Shown is a tool for holding and lengthening the rope during removal and installation.

[0073] Figures 8 to 17 shows example stages of a lift suspension rope replacement, and

[0074] Fig.18 Example stages of elevator suspension rope replacement are shown in flow chart form. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0075] Figure 1 A side view of an apparatus 100 for changing suspension ropes of an elevator is shown, the apparatus comprising an elevator shaft 1 and an elevator.

[0076] The elevator may comprise an elevator shaft 1, a car 2, a hoisting machine 3, suspension ropes 4 and a counterweight 5. A separate or integrated car frame 6 may surround the car 2. The car and the counterweight are suspended by one or more ropes 4. The ropes 4 are adapted to be guided over a traction sheave 8. When the traction sheave is rotated, the car may move along the shaft 1.

[0077] The replacement of one or more ropes 4 can be performed without a stopping process of the car 2 in the shaft 1. The car 2 is arranged to be movable during the rope replacement.

[0078] The car 2 and the counterweight 5 can be at any vertical height in the shaft 1 when replacing one or more ropes 4.

[0079] The inspection drive can be used to move the car 2 at any stage of the rope replacement.

[0080] The hoisting machine 3 may be located in a machine room 7 above the shaft 1 or in the shaft. The hoisting machine may include a drive, an electric motor, a traction sheave 8, a diverting sheave 9 and a mechanical brake. The hoisting machine 3 may move the car 2 up and down in the vertical direction in the vertically extending elevator shaft 1. The mechanical brake may stop the rotation of the traction sheave 8, thereby stopping the movement of the elevator car 2.

[0081] During a suspension rope replacement task, one technician may work in the machine room 7 while another technician may work on the car roof 2'. A cutter 30 for the old rope 4" or at least one old rope 4" reel may be arranged on the lowest landing 31 of the shaft 1 for old rope handling. At least one new rope 4' reel 10 may be arranged on the uppermost landing 32 for new rope 4' delivery. The work phases may be planned and arranged so that tools and parts are not used or moved in the machine room 7 when the technician is on the car roof 2'. In the path of the rope to be replaced, cuts such as sharp edges in the machine room 7 are arranged to be protected or covered so that the rope is not damaged. The risk of objects falling from the machine room 7 into the elevator shaft 1 may be eliminated.

[0082] The tasks of the technician in the machine room 7 may include: controlling and leading the work; preparing and finishing the machine 3; guiding and winding the suspension ropes 4' and 4" over the traction sheave 8 and the diverting sheave 9; and monitoring the rope twisting and tangling when the elevator car 2 is moved, optionally using twist stop tools 11 and / or friction reducing rollers 12.

[0083] The technician's tasks on the car roof 2' may include: removing the suspension rope 4" and installing the suspension rope 4' to the rope end 19 and the hitch plate; assisting the technician in the machine room 7 to install and remove the rope winding device 13 if necessary; and operating the new rope 4' reel 10 during rope winding.

[0084] The tasks of the technician on the platform 31 with the cutter 30 may include: winding the old suspension rope 4" onto the reel 10 or cutting the old suspension rope 4" with the cutter 30; and guiding the end of the old rope 4" to the platform 31 and guiding the end of the new rope 4' to the counterweight 5.

[0085] The end of the old rope 4" can be brought from the counterweight 5 to the landing 31, and the new rope 4' moved from the landing 31 to the counterweight 5, without the need to access the shaft 1. This can be done using a grabber tool equipped with a retractable rod. A rope or line 22 (such as a sling) attached to the end of the rope or counterweight rope Fig.11 , Fig.12 and Fig.14 The old rope 4" with the rope end can be moved to the landing 31, while the new rope 4' without the rope end can be moved from the landing 31, in particular by a technician working on the landing 31.

[0086] The old rope 4 ″ and the new rope 4 ′ can be temporarily connected to the counterweight 5 , for example by means of magnets.

[0087] When guiding the rope 4 on the uppermost stage 32 and the lowermost stage 31 , preferably before the cutter 30 , the rope guiding tool 14 may be used.

[0088] Figure 2 An embodiment of a rope storage unit for storing and winding up a lift rope 4 on a transport pallet is illustrated. Figure 2 The rope storage unit comprises three rope reels 10 formed by ropes 4 wound in a spiral form, and a support frame 10.1 provided with an internal space, the rope reels 10 being supported and positioned inside the internal space by the support frame 10.1 so that the rope reels can be rotated in the internal space for unwinding the ropes 4 during use.

[0089] Figure 3 The twist stopper tool 11 is illustrated in more detail. The twist stopper tool 11 can be placed in the path of the ropes, preferably in the machine room 7, in particular on the machine 3 bedplate on the car 2 side of the traction sheave 8, and fixed with a clamp.

[0090] In the example installation position, the twist stopper tool 11 comprises a horizontal first roller 11.1 and a horizontal second roller 11.2 that are rotatably fixed relative to the base plate 11.3. The rotation axis of the first roller 11.1 extends horizontally from the base plate 11.3. The rotation axis of the second roller 11.2 is aligned and parallel to the base plate 11.3. The rotation axes of the first roller and the second roller are perpendicular to each other.

[0091] exist Figure 4In the embodiment of the present invention, a friction reducing roller 12 is arranged to be connected to the traction sheave 8, forming together with a roller holder frame 12.1 a means for friction reduction. The roller holder frame 12.1 comprises a fixed bracket 12.2 and a roller holder 12.3 attached to the fixed bracket. The friction reducing roller 12 is rotatably and detachably assembled to the roller holder 12.3 at its ends. In use, the roller holder frame 12.1 is fixed to the machine 3 frame, for example above the traction sheave 8. When the rope 4' or rope 4" is lifted from the traction sheave, i.e. between the suspension rope 4' or suspension rope 4" and the traction sheave 8, the roller 12 can be removed from the frame 12.1 and attached to the frame 12 in a suitable position below the rope 4' or rope 4".

[0092] According to an embodiment, a low friction coating is applied to the traction sheave 8 and / or the diverting pulley 9 to make it easier for the rope to slide over the traction sheave 8 / pulley 9. The low friction coating may be a polytetrafluoroethylene tape or a Velcro tape.

[0093] Figure 5 The rope winding device 13 is illustrated in more detail. The rope winding device 13 comprises a friction roller 13.1 and a detachable idler roller 13.3 which can be manually operated by a crank assembly 13.2. The friction roller 13.1 and the idler roller 13.3 are mounted in use so that a suitable spacing is formed between them for changing the rope. The rope winding device 13 comprises a device frame 13.4 with side walls for rotatably receiving and fixing the friction roller 13.1 and the idler roller 13.3. The side walls can be fixed to a fixed bracket 13.5 for attaching the rope winding device 13 to the machine 3 base plate so that the rope 4 can be guided over the idler roller 13.3. When the rope 4' or rope 4" is lifted from the diverting pulley 9, i.e., between the suspension rope 4' or suspension rope 4" and the diverting pulley 9, the idler roller 13.3 can be removed from the device frame 13.4 and locked to a suitable position of the device frame 13.4 below the rope 4' or rope 4".

[0094] The rope winding device 13 may include a blocking member, such as a blocking disc 13.6 fixed to the crank assembly 13.2 and receiving a blocking pin 13.7 in the side wall of the device frame 13.4, which blocking pin may be spring loaded to prevent the crank 13.2 and the friction roller 13.1 from rotating and thus preventing the rope 4 from moving. The blocking pin may be locked in position by a locking pin to prevent the spring from pushing the blocking pin into the slot 13.8 in the blocking disc.

[0095] The rope winding device 13 may comprise a rope guide 13.9 which may be fastened to a support rod 13.41 connecting the side walls of the device frame 13.4 to prevent lateral movement of the rope.

[0096] Figure 6 The rope guiding tool 14 is illustrated in more detail. The rope guiding tool 14 can be placed on the landings 31, 32 and fixed with screws.

[0097] In an exemplary installation position, the rope guiding tool 14 comprises a horizontal first roller 14.1 and a vertical second roller 14.2, which are rotatably fixed relative to the base legs 14.3 to remain stationary. The rotation axis of the first roller 14.1 extends horizontally between the base legs 14.3. The first rollers 14.1 can form a linear row. The row of first rollers 14.1 can be detachably fixed between end walls 14.4, which can be adjustably connected to the base legs 14.3. According to an embodiment, the end wall 14.4 is adjustably connected to the base legs 14.3 in height. According to an embodiment, the end wall 14.4 is adjustably connected to the base legs 14.3 in angle. There can be at least two rows of first rollers 14.1, which are located at different vertical positions between the end walls 14.4. The vertical roller 14.2 is located between the horizontal rows of the multiple rows of first rollers 14.1. The rotation axes of the first roller and the second roller are perpendicular to each other.

[0098] exist Figure 7 In the embodiment, the tool for holding and stretching the rope 4' or rope 4" during removal and installation includes a hoist 15 and a rope gripper 16 installed between a suspension rope 4' or suspension rope 4" and the car 2. The hoist 15 can be such as Figure 7 A manual chain hoist as shown, or a motor driven chain hoist. The rope clamp 16 may include a compressible clamping jaw 16.1 for holding the rope 4' or rope 4". The rope clamp 16 may include a side stopper plate 16.2 to prevent the rope 4' or rope 4" from escaping from between the clamping jaws 16.1. The hoist 15 can be connected to the clamp 16 at a first end and to a lifting belt 17 at a second end, which is connected to the car 2 frame 6, such as a sling head beam. The lifting belt 17 can be connected to a lifting ring 18 in the frame 6 via a shackle.

[0099] The clamp 16 may be secured approximately 1.5 m above the rope end 19 of the rope 4" to be removed or the rope 4' to be installed and the side stopper plate 16.2 moved into a position preventing the rope from escaping between the jaws.

[0100] The following will use Figures 8 to 17 further describing the suspension rope replacement, and Figures 8 to 17 Different stages of a replacement method in the device 100 are illustrated.

[0101] Fig.18 The exemplary steps of the method for replacing the suspension rope of an elevator are shown, numbered from stage 1 to stage 10 in the flowchart. If multiple ropes are to be replaced simultaneously, it is also possible to use Fig.18The order described in . Fig.18 The order of steps shown in the figures is by no means limiting but is a descriptive example.

[0102] Figure 8 Illustration of the preparations for the replacement of the suspension rope ( Fig.18 Step 1 in ). One or more rope reels 10 with new rope 4' can be provided to the uppermost landing 32, for example using a pallet truck or a construction site trolley, and the reels 10 are ready in the correct position for winding out or unwinding the new rope 4'. Optionally, at least one new rope reel can be arranged on the car roof 2' or inside the car 2 (not shown in the figure).

[0103] The protruding first end of the new rope 4' may be prepared for engagement with the old rope 4", for example by providing said first end of the new rope 4' with an engagement member 20. The engagement member 20 preferably comprises a mesh clamp 20 or a corresponding engagement member suitable for joining the ends of suspension ropes together. The mesh clamp 20 may be tubular or sleeve-shaped. The mesh clamp 20 may be fixed to the first end of the rope 4', for example with tape.

[0104] like Figure 1 As shown, the rope guiding tool 14 can be mounted to the landings 31 , 32 or to the elevator shaft 1 .

[0105] The machinery 3 and the machinery room 7 may be prepared so that the ropes are accessible, for example covers, shields and equipment in inconvenient locations may be temporarily removed.

[0106] The rope cutter 30 may be disposed on the lowermost deck 31 and positioned so that the rope can be correctly routed. Optionally, at least one empty rope reel may be disposed on the lowermost deck 31 and positioned so that the rope can be correctly routed.

[0107] The car roof 2' and the counterweight 5 can be prepared so that the rope ends and the rope ends can be accessed during rope replacement. Optionally, at least one empty rope reel can be arranged on the car roof 2' or inside the car 2 (not shown in the figure).

[0108] During preparatory work on the counterweight side of the ropes, the car 2 can be moved, for example using an inspection drive, so that the rope ends of the counterweight 5 are accessible from the car roof 2 ′.

[0109] Fig. 9 The diagram shows the release of one or more old ropes 4 to be replaced at the end of the car 2" ( Fig.18 Step 2 in the above example.

[0110] According to an embodiment, the one or more ropes 4" are released one rope at a time.

[0111] According to an embodiment, the one or more ropes are replaced one rope at a time.

[0112] According to an embodiment, the number of ropes released simultaneously at the car end may vary, for example depending on the total number of ropes suspending the car 2 .

[0113] Preferably, the old ropes 4" are released one rope at a time and completely removed from the car end before moving to the next one, as described below. The old rope 4" to be replaced can be stretched and held in place as shown by arrow A, for example using tools 15, 16, 17, 18 to stretch and hold the rope, as shown in FIG. Figure 7 The old rope 4" can be pulled down in a first direction using the hoist 15 until the spring of the rope end 19 becomes loose. Thereafter, the rope end 19 can be released from the car 2 as shown by arrow B, and tension can be released from the rope in an opposite second direction using the hoist 15.

[0114] According to an embodiment, the rope end 19 at the car end is removed when the car 2 is in a midway position in the shaft 1. When releasing the rope end, the weight balance of the rope to be released on both sides of the traction sheave 8 does not substantially move the rope.

[0115] Fig.10 The diagram shows the tension-free length 21 ( Fig.18 Step 3 in the figure). The tension from the counterweight side rope can be released, the rope is lifted over the traction sheave 8 and the diverting pulley 9, and all the slack is moved to the car side of the traction sheave as shown by arrow C. The rope cut length 21 can be marked to the rope end 19 of the adjacent rope or adjacent rope 4 on the car side. The old rope length can be seen from the bottom of the rope end 19.

[0116] Fig.11 The old rope 4" is attached and a guide line 22 and auxiliary weight 23 are provided ( Fig.18 Step 4 in the figure). The rope 4″ end 24 on the car side can be fixed. The counterweight rope end can be removed from the counterweight 5.

[0117] According to an embodiment, the counterweight 5 rope ends are removed when the car 2 is in a position in the shaft 1 allowing access to the counterweight rope ends from the roof 2 ′ of the car 2 .

[0118] The guide line 22 may be fixed to the rope 4" at the rope's other end 25, for example via a counterweight rope end. An auxiliary weight 23 may be attached to the end of the line 22. The counterweight rope end may be temporarily fixed to the counterweight frame or adjacent end, for example using magnets.

[0119] Fig.12 The diagram shows that one or more old ropes 4" are guided to a platform, preferably to the lowest platform 31, and the old ropes 4" and the new ropes 4" are joined together ( Fig.18 5). Multiple ropes can be removed at the same time, but only one rope can be reeled in at a time.

[0120] Optionally, a low friction coating may be applied to the traction sheave 8 and / or the diverting sheave 9 to make it easier for the rope to slide over the sheave 8 / 9.

[0121] The car 2 can be moved to the uppermost landing 32 for joining the old and new ropes. The car 2 can be moved using the car roof inspection drive.

[0122] like Figure 1 As shown, the new rope 4' can be guided by the rope guiding tool 14 placed on the landing 32. The end of the new rope 4' can be pulled to the elevator car roof 2', wherein the old rope 4" can be cut near the rope end 19 housing and the old end can be discarded.

[0123] The new rope 4' can be connected end-to-end to the old rope 4". The ends of the ropes 4', 4" can be inserted into the tubular mesh clamp 20. The ends of the ropes can be fixed with the mesh clamp 20 with a predetermined insertion length (e.g. 400mm for both ropes), preferably ensuring that there is no gap between the rope ends.

[0124] The winding device 13 with the friction roller 13.1 can be fixed in place, preferably so that the prepared fixings in the machine bed can be used for fixing, and ready for operation. The friction roller 13.1 can be blocked to prevent the rope from moving. The slack above the traction sheave 8 can be pulled so that the idler roller 13.3 can be installed in the winding device 13 and under the rope being replaced.

[0125] The friction reducing roller 12 may be fixed to the machine frame, for example in combination with Figure 4 As described.

[0126] The twist stopper tool 11 may be placed on the machine bedplate on the car side of the traction sheave 8 and secured with a clamp.

[0127] By grabbing the wire 22 from the landing 31 and pulling the wire 22 with the auxiliary weight 23, the old rope 4" can be guided to the landing 31. According to an embodiment, the grabbing of the wire is done using a grabber tool.

[0128] Fig.13The diagram shows that the old rope 4" is pulled to the bottom stage 31 as shown by arrow D, and at the same time the new rope 4' is fed from the top stage 32 as shown by arrow E. Fig.18 6 in the previous step).

[0129] By rotating the winding device 13 to move the ropes 4", 4', the old rope 4" can be replaced by a new rope 4' until the rope joint shown with the mesh clamp 20 reaches the bottom stage 31. The winding device 13 can be used and the rope can be guided over the traction sheave 8. At the top stage 32, the new rope 4' reel 10 can be rotated. At the bottom stage 31, the old rope 4" can be cut into pieces.

[0130] The end of the rope 4" can be guided to the cutter 30 on the landing 31 and the weight rope end, wire 22 and magnet can be removed from the rope end by cutting the rope end.

[0131] like Figure 1 As shown, the old rope 4" can be guided to the landing stage 31, preferably by means of a rope guiding tool 14 fixed on the landing stage 31. At the same time, a new rope 4' can be fed from the top landing stage 32. The old rope 4" can be cut by the cutter 30 into rope fragments 4".

[0132] Fig.14 The diagram shows the attachment of new ropes 4', as well as the attachment of a line 22 for rope tensioning and an auxiliary weight 23 to one or more new ropes 4' ( Fig.18 7 in the previous step).

[0133] At the lowermost level 31, the magnet in the end 25' of the new rope can be attached with a belt. The line 22 and the tension weight 23 can be attached to the end of the new rope 4'. The end 25' of the rope 4' can be close to the frame of the counterweight 5, for example until the magnet attaches the frame. According to an embodiment, the delivery of the rope is done using a grabber tool, preferably without access to the shaft.

[0134] At the top landing 32, the new rope 4' may be securely attached to the adjacent rope at 24', for example using straps. The new rope 4' may be cut, preferably leaving a predetermined minimum length, for example a minimum 1 m extra tail 4.1 of rope.

[0135] In the machine room 7 the friction reducing roller 12 can be removed. The rope 4' can be removed from between the rollers of the winding device 13.

[0136] If a low-friction coating was previously applied, the low-friction coating may be removed from the traction sheave 8 and / or the diverting pulley 9 .

[0137] If there is more rope to be spooled ( Fig.187a), you can continue to join another old rope 4 "and another new rope 4 '( Fig.18 5). If all the ropes have been wound up, the roller holder frame 12.1, the winding device 13 and the twist stopper tool 11 can be removed.

[0138] Fig.15 The diagram shows the attachment of one or more rope ends with new rope 4' to the counterweight 5 and the cutting of the rope to the final length ( Fig.18 8 in the previous step).

[0139] According to an embodiment, the ends of the ropes of the counterweight 5 are fixed when the car 2 is in a position in the shaft 1 allowing access to the ends of the ropes of the counterweight from the ceiling 2' of the car 2.

[0140] The car 2 can be moved to the midpoint of the shaft 1, providing access from the car 2 roof to the counterweight hitch plate and to the fixing point of the counterweight side rope ends when the rope ends and new ropes 4' are connected to the counterweight 5. The car roof inspection drive can be used to move the car. During the driving of the machine 3 and the movement of the car 2, the rope position on the traction sheave 8 can be monitored.

[0141] The rope end can be fixed to the new rope 4 ′ on the counterweight side and the end can be attached to the counterweight 5 .

[0142] The slack in the new rope 4' can be moved on the car side of the traction sheave 8 as indicated by arrow F. Based on the tension-free rope length of the old rope 4" at the car roof, the new rope 4' can be cut with a short offset, e.g. about 15 mm, above the length mark 21. This offset compensates for the end wedge movement when the rope is tightened. The rope end 19 can be fixed to the new rope 4' on the car side.

[0143] Fig.16 The diagram shows the attachment of one or more ropes to the car 2 ( Fig.18 Step 9 in step 9). Rope end 19 (such as Figure 7 The car 2 can be moved to the lowest landing 31 using the car roof inspection drive.

[0144] According to an embodiment, the rope ends 19 at the ends of the car are fixed in place when the car 2 is in the bottom position in the shaft 1. Then, almost the entire length of the stretch rope is on the side of the car 2, and it is easier to stretch the rope into place.

[0145] The new rope 4' to be attached can be stretched and held in place as shown by arrow G, for example using tools 15, 16, 17, 18 to stretch and hold the rope, such as Figure 7As shown. The new rope 4' can be pulled down with the hoist 15 so that the rope end 19 can be connected to the car 2, preferably by installing a rope securing spring and eyebolt nut, and the rope tensioning device can be removed. The tensioning and attachment steps can be repeated for each released rope.

[0146] If more ropes need to be replaced ( Fig.18 7a), the replacement procedure is repeated starting from releasing one or more old ropes at the end of the car ( Fig.18 Step 2 in the above example.

[0147] Fig.17 Illustration of the completed suspension rope replacement ( Fig.18 The machinery 3 and the elevator operation can be prepared, tested and finalized for operational use of the elevator, for example, the machine cover can be installed. The protective material of the machine room 7 can be removed. The rope tension can be adjusted and the car roof 2' is prepared for operational use of the elevator.

[0148] According to an embodiment, the rope to be replaced has a rectangular cross section. According to an embodiment, the rope to be replaced has a circular cross section.

[0149] According to an embodiment, the rope to be replaced comprises a steel wire rope. According to an embodiment, the rope to be replaced comprises a coating. According to an embodiment, the rope to be replaced comprises a structure of carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) rods covered by thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). According to an embodiment, the rope to be replaced has a width in the transverse direction of the rope greater than its thickness and comprises a load-bearing part made of a composite material comprising reinforcing fibers in a polymer matrix, the reinforcing fibers consisting of carbon fibers or glass fibers.

[0150] The method may also be partially applied to other maintenance work requiring slackening of the rope 4 .

[0151] For example, the springs at the ends of the ropes can be easily replaced one at a time without having to park the car 2, which is a time-consuming task.

[0152] Furthermore, if the rope coating on the traction sheave 8 side is damaged, the rope 4 can be diverted.

[0153] According to an embodiment, individual suspension ropes may be replaced if the rope properties have not changed during use, for example no permanent elongation of the rope has occurred, or the rope stiffness has not changed, or the coating of the rope has not worn.

[0154] It is obvious to a person skilled in the art that, as technology advances, the inventive concept can be implemented in various ways.The invention and its embodiments are not limited to the examples described above but may vary within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A device (100) for replacing a suspension rope (4) of an elevator, the device comprising an elevator shaft (1); and An elevator having a car (2), a hoisting machine (3), one or more suspension ropes (4) and a counterweight (5); The car and the counterweight are suspended by the one or more ropes (4), the one or more ropes being adapted to be guided over a traction sheave (8) comprised by the machinery (3) for moving the car (2) along the elevator shaft (1); in When replacing the one or more ropes (4), the car (2) and the counterweight (5) are arranged at any vertical height in the shaft (1).

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein the car (2) is arranged to be movable during the rope replacement.

3. Apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the one or more ropes are adapted to be released one rope at a time.

4. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 3 comprises at least one reel (10) for a new rope (4'), which is arranged on the uppermost landing (32) of the shaft (1) or on the roof (2') of the car (2) or inside the car for delivering the new rope.

5. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, comprises a cutter (30) or at least one reel for old ropes (4"), which is arranged on the lowest level (31) of the shaft (1) for old rope processing.

6. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising a tool for holding and lengthening the rope during its removal and installation, the tool comprising a hoist (15) and a rope gripper (16) to be installed between a suspension rope and the car (2).

7. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, comprising a rope winding device (13) with a friction roller (13.1), which is arranged in connection with the machine (3) to form a tool for moving the rope to be replaced.

8. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein a friction reducing roller (12) is arranged in connection with the traction sheave (8) for forming means for friction reduction.

9. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein a twist stopper tool (11) is placed in the path of the rope.

10. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein a rope guiding tool (14) is arranged on the uppermost landing (32) and / or on the lowermost landing (31) of the shaft (1) for guiding the rope.

11. An apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein a rope storage unit having at least one rope reel (10) is arranged on the uppermost platform (32) and / or on the lowermost platform (31) of the shaft (1) for storing and winding the rope.

12. Arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the car (2) is arranged to be moved using an inspection drive at any stage of the rope replacement.

13. A device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the end of the old rope (4") is suitable for being brought from the counterweight (5) to the lowest level (31) of the shaft (1), and the new rope (4') is suitable for being moved from the level (31) to the counterweight (5) without accessing the shaft.

14. Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the one or more ropes are adapted to be replaced one rope at a time.

15. An arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein one or more ropes are simultaneously adapted to be released at the car end.

16. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein a low-friction coating is adapted to be applied on the traction sheave (8) and / or on the diverting pulley (9).

17. An arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the rope ends (19) at the car ends are adapted to be removed when the car (2) is in a midway position in the shaft (1).

18. Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the counterweight rope ends are adapted to be removed when the car (2) is located in a position in the shaft (1) allowing access to the counterweight rope ends from a roof (2') of the car (2).

19. An arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the car (2) is adapted to be moved to the uppermost landing (32) in the shaft (1) for engaging old ropes (4") and new ropes (4').

20. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the new rope (4') is adapted to be connected end-to-end to the old rope (4") by means of a mesh clamp (20).

21. An apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the old rope (4") is adapted to be guided to the lowermost landing (31) of the shaft and simultaneously the new rope (4') is adapted to be fed from the uppermost landing (32).

22. An apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein the counterweight rope end is suitable for being fixed to the counterweight (5) when the car (2) is located in a position in the shaft (1) allowing access to the counterweight rope end from the roof (2') of the car (2).

23. An arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein the rope ends (19) at the ends of the car are adapted to be fixed in position when the car (2) is in a bottom position in the shaft (1).

24. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 23, wherein the rope to be replaced comprises a load-bearing portion made of a composite material comprising reinforcing fibers consisting of carbon fibers or glass fibers in a polymer matrix.

25. A method for replacing a suspension rope (4) of an elevator in an apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 24, comprising When replacing the one or more ropes (4), the car (2) and the counterweight (5) are arranged at any vertical height in the shaft (1).

26. Method according to claim 25, comprising arranging the car (2) to be movable during the rope replacement.

27. A method according to claim 25 or 26, comprising releasing one or more suspension ropes at a time.

28. The method according to any one of claims 25 to 27 comprises arranging at least one reel (10) for new rope (4') on the uppermost landing (32) of the shaft (1) or on the roof (2') of the car (2) or inside the car for the delivery of new rope.

29. Method according to any one of claims 25 to 28, comprising arranging a cutter (30) or at least one reel for old ropes (4") on the lowest level (31) of the shaft (1) for old rope disposal.

30. Method according to any one of claims 25 to 29, comprising holding and lengthening the rope during removal and installation by means of a hoisting machine (15) and a rope gripper (16) installed between a suspension rope and the car (2).

31. Method according to any one of claims 25 to 30, comprising moving the rope to be replaced by a rope winding device (13) having a friction roller (13.1) connected to the machine (3).

32. Method according to any one of claims 25 to 31, comprising reducing friction by means of a friction reducing roller (12) arranged in connection with the traction sheave (8).

33. A method according to any one of claims 25 to 32, comprising placing a twist stopper tool (11) in the path of the rope.

34. The method according to any one of claims 25 to 33 comprises guiding the rope by means of a rope guiding tool (14), the rope guiding tool being arranged on the uppermost landing (32) and / or on the lowermost landing (31) of the shaft (1).

35. The method according to any one of claims 25 to 34 comprises storing and winding the rope by means of a rope storage unit, the rope storage unit having at least one rope reel (10), the at least one rope reel being arranged on the uppermost platform (32) and / or the lowermost platform (31) of the shaft (1).

36. Method according to any of claims 25 to 35, comprising moving the car (2) using an inspection drive at any stage of the rope replacement.

37. A method according to any one of claims 25 to 36, comprising bringing the end of the old rope (4") from the counterweight (5) to the lowermost platform (31), and moving the new rope (4') from the platform (31) to the counterweight (5) without accessing the shaft.

38. Method according to any one of claims 25 to 37, comprising replacing the one or more suspension ropes at a time.

39. Method according to any one of claims 25 to 38, comprising applying a low-friction coating on the traction sheave (8) and / or on the diverting pulley (9).

40. A method according to any one of claims 25 to 39, comprising removing the rope ends (19) at the ends of the car (2) when the car (2) is in a midway position in the shaft (1).

41. Method according to any one of claims 25 to 40, comprising removing the counterweight rope ends when the car (2) is in a position in the shaft (1) allowing access to the counterweight rope ends from a roof (2') of the car (2).

42. Method according to any one of claims 25 to 41, comprising moving the car (2) to the uppermost landing (32) in the shaft (1) for engaging old ropes (4") and new ropes (4').

43. A method according to any one of claims 25 to 42, comprising connecting the new rope (4') end-to-end to the old rope (4") using a mesh clamp (20).

44. Method according to any one of claims 25 to 43, comprising guiding the old rope (4") to the lowermost landing (31) of the shaft and simultaneously feeding the new rope (4') from the uppermost landing (32).

45. A method according to any one of claims 26 to 44, comprising securing the counterweight rope end to the counterweight (5) when the car (2) is in a position in the shaft (1) allowing access to the counterweight rope end from the roof (2') of the car (2).

46. ​​A method according to any one of claims 26 to 45, comprising fixing in position the rope ends (19) at the ends of the car (2) when the car (2) is in the bottom position in the shaft (1).

Images