A rescue method for breaking the balance of a roof collision of a machine room-less elevator and a gravity balance system
By increasing the weight of the machine-room-less elevator car by injecting water into the bottom of the car, combined with multi-dimensional detection and control, the problem of rescue after the machine-room-less elevator overshoots the top is solved, realizing safe and controllable car descent and precise stopping, and improving the degree of automation and safety.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- GUANGZHOU GUANGRI ELEVATOR IND
- Filing Date
- 2026-05-06
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-05
AI Technical Summary
Machine-room-less elevators cannot be rescued using the traditional manual cranking and mechanical brake release method when they malfunction. Furthermore, rescuers need to actively move counterweights during the rescue process, making the operation complex and dangerous.
By injecting water into the counterweight water bag at the bottom of the elevator car to increase the weight of the car, and using real-time detection of parameters such as car position, speed, acceleration and water bag weight for multi-dimensional closed-loop feedback control, the water injection rate can be precisely adjusted and the car can be dynamically protected during descent.
It achieves the goals of eliminating the need for rescue personnel to enter dangerous areas, ensuring a smooth and controllable descent process, precise stopping positions, multiple safety protections, and a high degree of automation, making it suitable for retrofitting existing elevators.
Smart Images

Figure CN122144584A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to the field of elevator technology, specifically to a rescue method and gravity balance system for a machine-room-less elevator that breaks its balance upon impact. Background Technology
[0002] With the acceleration of urbanization, machine-room-less elevators have been widely used in multi-story residential buildings, renovations of old communities, and small commercial buildings due to their advantages such as compact structure, low construction cost, and high space utilization. However, the drive unit, control cabinet, and other components of machine-room-less elevators are all installed in the shaft. In case of malfunction or operational error, the elevator car may exceed its designed maximum floor during operation, or even continue to move upwards and away from the top floor leveling position. In this case, rescue cannot be carried out through manual turning and mechanical brake release as with traditional machine-room elevators.
[0003] Machine-room-less elevators often utilize electric brake release and the gravitational imbalance between the elevator car and the counterweight to cause the elevator car to slide downwards. Once the elevator car is close to a suitable landing position, the brake is applied to stop the elevator car. However, because the counterweight system is heavier than the car system in the elevator design, the car cannot move downwards naturally during a rescue. Currently, rescuers often need to actively move the counterweight onto the elevator car to increase its weight so that the elevator car can slide downwards. Summary of the Invention
[0004] The purpose of this invention is to overcome the shortcomings and deficiencies of the prior art and to provide a rescue method and gravity balance system for a machine-room-less elevator that breaks its balance upon impact.
[0005] One embodiment of the present invention provides a rescue method for a machine-room-less elevator that breaks its balance upon impact, comprising:
[0006] Detect the position of the elevator car to determine if the elevator car is above the top floor position; If the elevator car position exceeds the top floor position, the water supply source will be connected to the counterweight water bag; The counterweight water bag is filled with water to lower the elevator car, and the current position of the elevator car is detected in real time. When the current elevator car position is in the rescue position, the descent of the elevator car is stopped, and the water filling operation of the counterweight water bag is stopped.
[0007] In some optional embodiments of the present invention, the step of connecting the water supply source to the counterweight water bag if the elevator car position exceeds the top floor position includes: If the elevator car position exceeds the top floor position, an alarm signal will be issued and the water supply source will be connected to the counterweight water bag.
[0008] In some optional embodiments of the present invention, the step of connecting the water supply source to the counterweight water bag includes: Remove the restriction of the storage mechanism on the counterweight water bag, and then connect the water supply source to the counterweight water bag; Alternatively, a water supply source can be connected to the counterweight water bag, and water can be injected into the counterweight water bag to make it push open the storage mechanism's restriction on the counterweight water bag.
[0009] In some optional embodiments of the present invention, the step of filling the counterweight water bag with water to lower the elevator car and detecting the current position of the elevator car in real time includes: The counterweight water bag is filled with water to lower the elevator car, and the current position of the elevator car is detected in real time. When the height difference between the current elevator car position and the rescue position is less than or equal to a preset height difference range, the water injection rate of the counterweight water bag is reduced or the water injection operation of the counterweight water bag is stopped.
[0010] In some optional embodiments of the present invention, the step of filling the counterweight water bag with water to lower the elevator car and detecting the current position of the elevator car in real time includes: The counterweight water bag is filled with water to make the elevator car descend, and the current position of the elevator car and the descent speed of the elevator car are detected in real time. If the descent speed of the elevator car is greater than the preset descent speed, the water injection operation of the counterweight water bag will be stopped or the water injection rate of the counterweight water bag will be reduced.
[0011] In some optional embodiments of the present invention, the step of filling the counterweight water bag with water to lower the elevator car and detecting the current position of the elevator car in real time includes: The counterweight water bag is filled with water to make the elevator car descend, and the current position and acceleration of the elevator car are detected in real time. If the acceleration of the elevator car is greater than the preset acceleration, the water injection operation of the counterweight water bag will be stopped or the water injection rate of the counterweight water bag will be reduced.
[0012] In some optional embodiments of the present invention, the step of filling the counterweight water bag with water to lower the elevator car and detecting the current position of the elevator car in real time includes: The water injection component injects water into the counterweight water bag to lower the elevator car and detects the current position of the elevator car and the weight of the counterweight water bag in real time. The actual water injection speed is determined based on the weight change of the counterweight water bag. The actual water injection speed is compared with the set water injection speed of the water injection component. If they do not match, the set water injection speed of the water injection component is calibrated.
[0013] This invention also provides a gravity balancing system for a machine-room-less elevator that has broken its balance upon impact, applicable to any of the rescue methods described above for a machine-room-less elevator that has broken its balance upon impact, comprising: A storage mechanism includes an upper storage component, a lower storage component, and a locking component. The lower storage component is movably connected to the upper storage component and can move relative to the upper storage component to a limited position and an avoidance position. When the lower storage component is in the limited position, a storage space is formed between the upper and lower storage components. The locking component is connected to both the upper and lower storage components to lock the position of the lower storage component. The counterweight assembly includes a counterweight water bag, which is an elastic or flexible counterweight water bag. The counterweight water bag is provided with a water inlet and a water outlet. The top of the counterweight water bag is connected to the upper storage component. When the lower storage component is in the limiting position, the counterweight water bag is stored in the storage space. Water injection assembly, wherein the water injection assembly is connected to the water inlet; A position detection component is used to detect the current position of the elevator car.
[0014] In some optional embodiments of the present invention, the locking assembly includes a first magnetic member disposed on the upper storage member and a second magnetic member disposed on the lower storage member, wherein at least one of the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member is an electromagnet assembly.
[0015] In some optional embodiments of the present invention, the counterweight assembly further includes a force gauge module connected to the upper storage component.
[0016] Compared to existing technologies, the rescue method for breaking the top balance of a machine-room-less elevator in this invention increases the weight of the car by injecting water into a counterweight water bag located at the bottom of the elevator car, thereby actively breaking the mechanical balance state after the top collision and allowing the car to descend safely and controllably to the rescue position. By real-time monitoring of multiple parameters such as car position, speed, acceleration, and water bag weight, a multi-dimensional closed-loop feedback control is formed, achieving precise adjustment of the water injection rate and dynamic safety protection during the car's descent. A storage mechanism located at the bottom of the car regularly stores the counterweight water bag, and the coordinated operation of the water injection component and the position detection component constitutes a highly integrated and rapidly responsive electromechanical-hydraulic gravity balance system.
[0017] Compared with traditional rescue methods, this invention has outstanding advantages such as eliminating the need for rescue personnel to enter dangerous areas, ensuring a smooth and controllable descent process, providing precise stopping positions, offering multiple safety protections, a high degree of automation, and being easy to retrofit into existing elevators.
[0018] To provide a clearer understanding of the present invention, the specific embodiments of the present invention will be described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description
[0019] Figure 1 This is a flowchart illustrating a rescue method for a machine-room-less elevator that breaks its balance upon impact, according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the gravity balancing device for breaking the top balance of an elevator without a machine room according to an embodiment of the present invention, when the lower storage component is in the limiting position. Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the gravity balancing device for breaking the top balance of an elevator without a machine room according to an embodiment of the present invention, when the lower storage component is in the avoidance position. Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a counterweight water bag according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the gravity balancing device for breaking the balance of the elevator without machine room according to an embodiment of the present invention, when the counterweight water bag is hidden. Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the gravity balancing device and the elevator car base frame for breaking the top balance of a machine room-less elevator according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0020] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures: 10. Storage mechanism; 11. Upper storage component; 111. Positioning port; 112. Storage space; 113. Clearance opening; 12. Lower storage component; 13. Locking component; 131. First magnetic suction component; 132. Second magnetic suction component; 20. Counterweight component; 21. Counterweight water bag; 211. Water inlet; 212. Drain outlet; 213. Water inlet pipe; 214. Handle; 22. Force gauge module; 23. First assembly; 24. Second assembly; 30. Water injection component; 31. Flow control valve. Detailed Implementation
[0021] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention. In the description of the present invention, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more, and "a number" means one or more. Furthermore, unless otherwise stated, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features.
[0022] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention.
[0023] In the description of this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.
[0024] In the description of this invention, references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some alternative implementations," or "some optional embodiments," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the invention. In this specification, illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.
[0025] Please see Figure 1 This invention provides a rescue method for a machine-room-less elevator that breaks its balance upon impact, comprising the following steps: Step S101: Detect the elevator car position to determine whether the elevator car position exceeds the top floor position. The elevator car position detection method can be designed according to actual needs. In this embodiment, the elevator car is detected by a position detection component. The structure of the position detection component is a conventional technology. For example, it can be implemented by using an upper limit switch installed at the top of the shaft, an independent laser rangefinder sensor, or reading the values of the traction machine rotary encoder system. For example, when the elevator car overshoots the top floor, the elevator car will trigger the upper limit switch installed on the side or top of the shaft. After receiving this signal, the elevator control system considers that "the elevator car position has overshooted the top floor or exceeded the leveling position of the top floor".
[0026] If the judgment result of step S101 is "No", it means that the elevator car has not reached the top and is in normal condition. If the judgment result of step S101 is "Yes", then proceed to step S102: When the elevator car position exceeds the top floor position, the water supply source is connected to the counterweight water bag, which is set at the bottom of the elevator car. This water supply source can be a dedicated fire water pipe, domestic water supply pipe, or a dedicated high-level water tank pre-installed in the building. Water from the water supply source is delivered to the counterweight water bag through the water injection component, thereby increasing the weight of the counterweight water bag.
[0027] Subsequently, step S103 is executed: water is injected into the counterweight water bag to lower the elevator car, and the current position of the elevator car is monitored in real time. As water is continuously injected into the counterweight water bag located at the bottom of the car, the water bag expands, and the total weight on the car side gradually increases. When the increased weight on the car side is sufficient to overcome the upward pulling force on the counterweight side and the friction force of the guide rail, the car begins to move downward, and the position detection component monitors the position of the elevator car in real time.
[0028] Finally, step S104 is executed: when the current elevator car position is in the rescue position, the descent of the elevator car is stopped, and the water injection operation of the counterweight water bag is stopped. The "rescue position" here usually refers to the appropriate leveling position of the elevator, that is, the position where the car sill aligns with the landing door sill; the specific leveling position is determined based on the site conditions. When the position detection component reports that the car has reached the rescue position, the brake reliably closes to stop the descent of the elevator car. At this time, water injection is stopped to avoid further increasing the weight of the elevator car. It should be noted that elevator car brake systems usually have a temporary backup power supply, so even in the event of a power outage, the elevator can still be braked to stop the elevator car.
[0029] In some optional embodiments of the present invention, if the elevator car position exceeds the top floor position, the step of connecting the water supply source to the counterweight water bag includes: if the elevator car position exceeds the top floor position, issuing an alarm signal and connecting the water supply source to the counterweight water bag.
[0030] When the elevator car is detected to be above the top floor, the system will immediately issue an alarm signal, either simultaneously with or before connecting the water supply to the counterweight water bag. This alarm signal can be transmitted in multiple parallel paths: one path sends a message to the elevator's remote monitoring center or the property management office; a second path plays a pre-set reassuring message to trapped passengers via the elevator's in-car intercom or public address system; and a third path triggers an audible and visual alarm installed on the elevator control cabinet or outside the shaft, alerting nearby personnel that a rescue operation is underway and warning them not to approach.
[0031] In some optional embodiments of the present invention, the step of connecting the water supply source to the counterweight water bag includes: Remove the storage mechanism's restriction on the counterweight water bag, and then connect the water supply source to the counterweight water bag; or, connect the water supply source to the counterweight water bag and fill the counterweight water bag with water to make the counterweight water bag push open the storage mechanism's restriction on the counterweight water bag.
[0032] The handling method of the storage mechanism and the release method of the counterweight water bag are limited before or after "connecting the water supply source to the counterweight water bag" in step S102. The storage mechanism is a device for storing and protecting the counterweight water bag at the bottom of the car when it is not in operation. When the counterweight water bag is not in use, it can be rolled up or folded inside the storage mechanism. Because the counterweight water bag is flexible or elastic, it can be housed in the storage mechanism to reduce its volume.
[0033] In the first alternative approach, the method includes: first, releasing the restraint on the counterweight water bag by the storage mechanism through a command issued by the control system or by active operation by rescue personnel; and only after confirming that the storage mechanism is fully open, starting to fill the counterweight water bag with water. In this embodiment, the storage mechanism can be electrically or manually controlled.
[0034] In the second alternative method, the procedure includes: the control system first opens the water injection valve, connecting the water supply source to the counterweight water bag, and then begins water injection. At this time, the storage mechanism remains locked, but this locking is not a strong lock. As water enters the counterweight water bag, the bag itself begins to expand, and the gravity of the water generates a downward thrust. When the expansion force of the counterweight water bag plus the thrust overcomes the holding force of the locking component of the storage mechanism, the storage mechanism will be pushed by the counterweight water bag to release it, thus making room for the subsequent injection of a large amount of water and its full expansion. It should be noted that the holding force of the locking component of the storage mechanism should be designed to be sufficiently large to prevent the counterweight water bag from being released due to vibration during normal elevator operation.
[0035] In some optional embodiments of the present invention, the step of injecting water into the counterweight water bag to lower the elevator car and detecting the current position of the elevator car in real time includes: injecting water into the counterweight water bag to lower the elevator car and detecting the current position of the elevator car in real time; when the height difference between the current position of the elevator car and the rescue position is less than or equal to a preset height difference range, reducing the water injection rate into the counterweight water bag or stopping the water injection operation into the counterweight water bag.
[0036] In step S103, in addition to continuous water injection and position monitoring, the system also calculates the height difference ΔH between the "current elevator car position" and the preset "rescue position" in real time. The system internally presets a positive height difference threshold, i.e., a "preset height difference range." When ΔH is less than or equal to this preset range, a buffer strategy is implemented: the water injection rate to the counterweight water bag is reduced, or the water injection operation is temporarily stopped completely. Utilizing the existing downward inertia of the elevator car, it is allowed to slowly glide to the final rescue position, preventing the elevator car from moving too fast and causing the brakes to fail to stop the elevator car at the rescue position. When it is confirmed that the car has accurately reached the rescue position, water injection is stopped to prevent the elevator car from continuing to gain weight.
[0037] In some optional embodiments of the present invention, the step of injecting water into the counterweight water bag to lower the elevator car and detecting the current position of the elevator car in real time includes: injecting water into the counterweight water bag to lower the elevator car and detecting the current position of the elevator car and the descent speed of the elevator car in real time; if the descent speed of the elevator car is greater than a preset descent speed, then stopping the water injection operation into the counterweight water bag or reducing the water injection rate into the counterweight water bag.
[0038] During the descent of the elevator car due to water injection, the system not only monitors the car's position but also obtains the real-time descent speed V using existing speed encoders or additional speedometers for speed measurement. The control system has a preset safe descent speed threshold Vmax. The system continuously compares the actual speed V with Vmax. If V > Vmax, the system immediately executes safety actions: either completely stopping the water injection into the counterweight bag or adaptively reducing the injection rate based on the degree of exceedance. Water injection can be resumed or increased once the speed returns to a safe range.
[0039] In some optional embodiments of the present invention, the step of injecting water into the counterweight water bag to lower the elevator car and detecting the current position of the elevator car in real time includes: injecting water into the counterweight water bag to lower the elevator car and detecting the current position of the elevator car and the acceleration of the elevator car in real time; if the acceleration of the elevator car is greater than a preset acceleration, then stopping the water injection operation into the counterweight water bag or reducing the water injection rate into the counterweight water bag.
[0040] The system monitors the descent acceleration 'a' of the elevator car in real time and presets a safe acceleration threshold 'amax'. When the system detects that 'a' > 'amax', even if V is still much smaller than Vmax, the system will immediately determine that a dangerous dynamic instability trend may have occurred and immediately stop water injection or significantly reduce the water injection rate, thereby improving safety.
[0041] In some optional embodiments of the present invention, the step of injecting water into the counterweight water bag to lower the elevator car and detecting the current position of the elevator car in real time includes: injecting water into the counterweight water bag through a water injection component to lower the elevator car and detecting the current position of the elevator car and the weight of the counterweight water bag in real time; determining the actual water injection speed based on the weight change of the counterweight water bag; comparing whether the actual water injection speed matches the set water injection speed of the water injection component; if not, calibrating the set water injection speed of the water injection component.
[0042] During the water injection process, the system obtains the current weight W of the counterweight water bag in real time through a force gauge module installed on the storage mechanism. By calculating the derivative of weight W with respect to time t, dW / dt, the "actual water injection speed" Q_real is accurately obtained. Simultaneously, the control system records the "set water injection speed" Q_set corresponding to the control command currently issued to the water injection component. The system compares Q_real and Q_set in real time. If a deviation is found, it indicates that Q_set has not been properly achieved, which will affect the control of the elevator car speed. In this case, the control parameters of the water injection component can be calibrated, for example, by increasing the opening of the electric valve or increasing the speed of the water pump (adjusted according to the actual structure of the water injection component), until the error between the actual water injection speed and the set value is within the allowable range.
[0043] Please see Figures 2 to 4 The present invention also provides a gravity balancing system for breaking the balance of an elevator without a machine room. The device is used to implement the above-mentioned rescue method, and the device mainly includes: a storage mechanism 10, a counterweight component 20, a water injection component 30, and a position detection component (not shown) installed at the bottom of the elevator car.
[0044] The storage mechanism 10 consists of an upper storage component 11, a lower storage component 12, and a locking assembly 13. The upper storage component 11 can be a rigid metal top plate, directly fixed to the load-bearing structure at the bottom of the car by bolts. The lower storage component 12 can be a rigid metal box with an open bottom or a foldable panel, one side of which is movably connected to the upper storage component 11 by a hinge, allowing it to be flipped downwards to a closed limit position or an open clearance position. The locking assembly 13 is installed between the upper and lower storage components 12 to lock the lower storage component 12 in the limit position.
[0045] The core of the counterweight assembly 20 is the counterweight water bag 21, which is made of high-strength, aging-resistant rubber or thermoplastic polyurethane composite material and has good flexibility or elasticity. The water bag has an inlet 211 and a drain outlet 212 with a shut-off valve. Multiple sets of connecting lugs are located at the top of the water bag, which are fixedly connected to the bottom surface of the upper storage component 11 via shackles or bolts. When the elevator is operating normally, the lower storage component 12 is in the limited position, forming a compact rectangular storage space 112 together with the upper storage component 11, where the water bag is folded and stored.
[0046] The water injection assembly 30 includes an inlet pipe 213 and a solenoid valve or an electric regulating valve. One end of the inlet pipe 213 is connected to the building's water supply network, and the other end is connected to the inlet 211 of the counterweight water bag 21 via a hose.
[0047] The position detection component is used to detect relevant information about the elevator car, such as its position, descent speed, and acceleration. The position detection component may include non-contact magnetic switches independently installed at each landing in the hoistway, used to provide feedback to the control system as to whether the car has reached the rescue landing.
[0048] The working principle of the gravity balance system for breaking the top balance in a machine room-less elevator according to an embodiment of the present invention is explained below: The upper storage component 11 is fixed to the top of the elevator car or other suitable location. In the initial state, the lower storage component 12 is in the limit position. At this time, the counterweight water bag 21 is stored in the storage space 112 by means of rolling, folding or compression. The lower storage component 12 is locked by the locking component 13. The counterweight water bag 21 is retracted and its volume is reduced, so it is not easy to affect the normal operation of the elevator car.
[0049] When the elevator car is about to top, rescuers can sequentially connect the water supply source, water injection component 30, and water inlet 211 to inject water into the counterweight water bag 21. Because the counterweight water bag 21 is elastic or flexible, its volume will expand as the amount of water injected increases. The locking component 13 unlocks, allowing the lower storage component 12 to move to a safer position, thus avoiding the expansion of the counterweight water bag 21. The locking component 13 can be actively unlocked by rescuers before water is injected into the counterweight water bag 21, allowing them to move the lower storage component 12 to the safer position. Alternatively, the expansion force and weight of the counterweight water bag 21 can be used to push the lower storage component 12, causing the locking component 13 to unlock and the lower storage component 12 to be pushed to the safer position.
[0050] The water supply source can be a dedicated fire-fighting water pipe or a domestic water supply pipe pre-installed in the building, or a dedicated elevated water tank.
[0051] By controlling the amount of water injected, the total weight of the counterweight can be precisely adjusted. Utilizing the weight of water as the counterweight, stepless and precise adjustment of the counterweight weight can be achieved by injecting different volumes of water into the counterweight water bag 21 through the water injection component 30. The elevator car can descend under the increased weight of the water and reach the appropriate rescue location. The operation is easy and safe, and it can be well adapted to the narrow space at the top of the machine room-less elevator shaft, effectively solving many problems associated with traditional weight-based counterweight methods.
[0052] The drain outlet 212 is used to drain water when it is necessary to reduce the counterweight or store equipment. After the rescue is completed, the drain pipe can be connected to the drain outlet 212, and the water can be drained to a suitable location through the drain pipe. It should be noted that the drain outlet 212 should be equipped with a removable sealing cap, an on / off drain valve, or other suitable sealing structure to prevent water leakage during water filling. After the water in the counterweight water bag 21 is drained, the rescuer can fold, roll up, or compress the counterweight water bag 21, then move the lower storage component 12 back to the limit position and operate the locking component 13 to lock the lower storage component 12, thereby realizing the storage of the counterweight water bag 21 for the next use.
[0053] In some optional embodiments, the lower storage component 12 and the upper storage component 11 are rotatably coupled. This rotatable coupling allows the lower storage component 12 to switch between a limiting position and an avoidance position, resulting in a simple structure and convenient operation. For example, the lower storage component 12 can be opened like a door from one side of the upper storage component 11, fully exposing its interior for easy installation or maintenance of the counterweight water bag 21; when needed, it can be closed and secured by the locking component 13, forming a stable box structure. This rotatable opening and closing method makes daily operation of the equipment very intuitive and effortless. The lower storage component 12 and the upper storage component 11 can achieve rotatable coupling through a hinge structure or similar means.
[0054] The specific structure of the locking component 13 can be designed according to actual needs. The locking component 13 can adopt a mechanical latch assembly, a pin structure, or a snap-fit structure, etc. For example, the locking component 13 includes a lock seat disposed on the upper storage member 11 and a lock tongue disposed on the lower storage member 12, and the lock tongue can form a snap-fit engagement with the lock seat. In this embodiment, the locking component 13 includes a first magnetic attractor 131 disposed on the upper storage member 11 and a second magnetic attractor 132 disposed on the lower storage member 12. At least one of the first magnetic attractor 131 and the second magnetic attractor 132 is an electromagnet assembly, and the other can be an electromagnet assembly, a magnetic iron piece, or a magnet. Using electromagnetic attraction for locking, remote unlocking can be achieved by controlling the electromagnet assembly through a circuit. For example, before it is necessary to open the lower storage member 12, the power supply to the electromagnet assembly can be remotely disconnected to release the lock, without the need for manual operation of complex mechanical snap-fit mechanisms. After unlocking, the storage component can move from the limiting position to the avoidance position by its own weight, or the storage component 12 can be rotated to the avoidance position by the weight of the counterweight water bag 21 and the weight of the water in the counterweight water bag 21. Since there is no need for rescuers to actively operate the unlocking, the automation and convenience of the operation are improved.
[0055] Please see Figure 5 In some optional embodiments, the upper storage component 11 is provided with a positioning port 111; the counterweight water bag 21 is provided with a water inlet pipe 213, and the water inlet pipe 213 is provided with a water inlet 211. A portion of the water inlet pipe 213 passes through the positioning port 111, and the water inlet pipe 213 extends from the water inlet 211 to the outside of the storage space 112. Positioning the water inlet pipe 213 through the positioning port 111 ensures that the position of the water inlet pipe 213 is fixed, preventing the water inlet 211 from being buried inside the water bag or the storage space 112 when the counterweight water bag 21 expands or moves, thereby ensuring that the water injection component 30 can be stably and conveniently connected to the water inlet 211. At the same time, the water inlet pipe 213 extending outside the storage space 112 also facilitates the operator to make pipeline connections.
[0056] In some optional embodiments, the counterweight assembly 20 also includes a force gauge module 22, which is connected to the upper storage component 11, and the upper storage component 11 is connected to the elevator car via the force gauge module 22. The force gauge module 22 can measure the tension or pressure exerted by the entire counterweight assembly 20 on the elevator car in real time to determine the actual weight of the current counterweight. This allows the operator to accurately understand the current counterweight value, thereby achieving more precise adjustment. For example, when the water injection component 30 injects water into the counterweight water bag 21, the reading of the force gauge module 22 will increase in real time. The operator can observe the reading while injecting water until the target counterweight value is reached, realizing visualized and precise adjustment of the counterweight. Of course, the force gauge module 22 can also be connected to the elevator control system via wired or wireless means, and the operator can observe the information of the force gauge module 22 through the data displayed by the elevator control system.
[0057] Please see Figure 6 In some optional embodiments, the counterweight assembly 20 further includes a first mounting part 23 and a second mounting part 24. The first mounting part 23 is connected to the force gauge module 22, and the force gauge module 22 is assembled with the upper storage component 11 via the second mounting part 24. The first mounting part 23 is used to connect with the elevator car. The first mounting part 23 and the second mounting part 24 form a stable connection chain, which not only facilitates the independent manufacturing, replacement, and maintenance of each component, but also ensures that the force measured by the force gauge module 22, connected in series in the force path, comes entirely from the weight of the counterweight water bag 21, thus guaranteeing the accuracy of the force measurement data. Both the first mounting part 23 and the second mounting part 24 can be lifting rings. The first mounting part 23 is locked to the bottom of the elevator car base frame with screws, and the second mounting part 24 is locked to the upper storage component 11 with screws. Both the first mounting part 23 and the second mounting part 24 are movably connected to the holes in the force gauge module 22. In some alternative embodiments, at least one side of the counterweight water bag 21 is provided with a protruding handle portion 214. The handle portion 214 is designed to provide a convenient gripping point for handling or adjusting the counterweight water bag 21 in its unfilled state. Since the counterweight water bag 21 is flexible or elastic and its shape is not fixed when unfilled, the handle portion 214 can serve as a stable operating part, making it convenient for operators to roll up and fold the counterweight water bag 21.
[0058] In some optional embodiments, when the lower storage member 12 is in the limited position, a plurality of clearance openings 113 are formed between the upper storage member 11 and the lower storage member 12. The handle portion 214 is correspondingly inserted through the clearance openings 113 and extends out of the storage space 112, thereby avoiding structural interference between the handle portion 214 and the upper storage member 11 or the lower storage member 12. This way, the folding and storage of the counterweight water bag 21 will not be affected, and the handle portion 214 will not be squeezed and damaged.
[0059] The water injection assembly 30 can be pre-installed at the water inlet 211, or it can be actively assembled to the water inlet 211 by rescuers when rescue is needed. The specific structure of the water injection assembly 30 can be designed according to actual needs. For example, in some optional embodiments, the water injection assembly 30 includes a water pump and a flow control valve 31. The flow control valve 31 is connected to the water inlet 211, and the water pump is connected to the flow control valve 31. The water pump is used to pump water from the water supply source into the counterweight water bag 21. The flow control valve 31 can precisely control the water flow rate entering the water bag, thereby achieving fine counterweight adjustment in conjunction with the force gauge. By controlling the water pump and the flow control valve 31, automated water injection operation can be achieved, improving the convenience and safety of operation. In this embodiment, the flow control valve 31 is pre-connected to the water inlet 211; the water pump can be pre-connected to the flow control valve 31, or the water pump can be pre-configured in other locations and moved to the vicinity of the elevator car when needed, and then the water supply source, water pump and flow control valve 31 are connected in sequence through water pipes.
[0060] In this embodiment, the water pump, flow control valve 31, locking component 13, and position detection component are all electrically connected to the elevator's original control system, thus facilitating control.
[0061] Although embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.
Claims
1. A rescue method for a machine-room-less elevator that breaks its balance upon impact, characterized in that, include: Detect the position of the elevator car to determine if the elevator car is above the top floor position; If the elevator car position exceeds the top floor position, the water supply source will be connected to the counterweight water bag; The counterweight water bag is filled with water to lower the elevator car, and the current position of the elevator car is detected in real time. When the current elevator car position is in the rescue position, the descent of the elevator car is stopped, and the water filling operation of the counterweight water bag is stopped.
2. The rescue method for a machine-room-less elevator that breaks its balance upon impact, as described in claim 1, is characterized in that... The step of connecting the water supply source to the counterweight water bag if the elevator car position exceeds the top floor position includes: If the elevator car position exceeds the top floor position, an alarm signal will be issued and the water supply source will be connected to the counterweight water bag.
3. A rescue method for a machine-room-less elevator that breaks its balance upon impact, as described in claim 1, is characterized in that... The step of connecting the water supply source to the counterweight water bag includes: Remove the restriction of the storage mechanism on the counterweight water bag, and then connect the water supply source to the counterweight water bag; Alternatively, a water supply source can be connected to the counterweight water bag, and water can be injected into the counterweight water bag to make it push open the storage mechanism's restriction on the counterweight water bag.
4. A rescue method for a machine-room-less elevator that breaks its balance upon impact, as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that... The steps of filling the counterweight water bag with water to lower the elevator car and detecting the current position of the elevator car in real time include: The counterweight water bag is filled with water to lower the elevator car, and the current position of the elevator car is detected in real time. When the height difference between the current elevator car position and the rescue position is less than or equal to a preset height difference range, the water injection rate of the counterweight water bag is reduced or the water injection operation of the counterweight water bag is stopped.
5. A rescue method for a machine-room-less elevator that breaks its balance upon impact, as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that... The steps of filling the counterweight water bag with water to lower the elevator car and detecting the current position of the elevator car in real time include: The counterweight water bag is filled with water to make the elevator car descend, and the current position of the elevator car and the descent speed of the elevator car are detected in real time. If the descent speed of the elevator car is greater than the preset descent speed, the water injection operation of the counterweight water bag will be stopped or the water injection rate of the counterweight water bag will be reduced.
6. A rescue method for a machine-room-less elevator that breaks its balance upon impact, as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that... The steps of filling the counterweight water bag with water to lower the elevator car and detecting the current position of the elevator car in real time include: The counterweight water bag is filled with water to make the elevator car descend, and the current position and acceleration of the elevator car are detected in real time. If the acceleration of the elevator car is greater than the preset acceleration, the water injection operation of the counterweight water bag will be stopped or the water injection rate of the counterweight water bag will be reduced.
7. A rescue method for a machine-room-less elevator that breaks its balance upon impact, as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that... The steps of filling the counterweight water bag with water to lower the elevator car and detecting the current position of the elevator car in real time include: The water injection component injects water into the counterweight water bag to lower the elevator car and detects the current position of the elevator car and the weight of the counterweight water bag in real time. The actual water injection speed is determined based on the weight change of the counterweight water bag. The actual water injection speed is compared with the set water injection speed of the water injection component. If they do not match, the set water injection speed of the water injection component is calibrated.
8. A gravity balancing system for rescuing a machine-room-less elevator from overshooting its top balance, applied to a rescue method for a machine-room-less elevator from overshooting its top balance as described in any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, include: A storage mechanism includes an upper storage component, a lower storage component, and a locking component. The lower storage component is movably connected to the upper storage component and can move relative to the upper storage component to a limited position and an avoidance position. When the lower storage component is in the limited position, a storage space is formed between the upper and lower storage components. The locking component is connected to both the upper and lower storage components to lock the position of the lower storage component. A counterweight assembly includes a counterweight water bag, which is elastic or flexible. The counterweight water bag has an inlet and an outlet. The top of the counterweight water bag is connected to the upper storage component. When the lower storage component is in the limiting position, the counterweight water bag is stored in the storage space. Water injection assembly, wherein the water injection assembly is connected to the water inlet; A position detection component is used to detect the current position of the elevator car.
9. The gravity balance system for breaking the top balance of a machine-room-less elevator according to claim 8, characterized in that: The locking assembly includes a first magnetic member disposed on the upper storage member and a second magnetic member disposed on the lower storage member, wherein at least one of the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member is an electromagnet assembly.
10. The gravity balance system for breaking the top balance of a machine-room-less elevator according to claim 8, characterized in that: The counterweight assembly also includes a force gauge module, which is connected to the upper storage component.