Elevator system

Abstract

An elevator system (2) comprises an elevator car (6) configured for travelling in a longitudinal direction (LD) in a hoistway (4) between a plurality of landings (8), at least one guide rail (24) for guiding the elevator car (6), wherein the at least one guide rail (24) comprises a U-shaped profile formed by a first leg (24a) and a second leg (24b) extending from a base (24c), wherein the U-shaped profile defines an inner space (23) of the U-shaped profile, and the first leg (24a) and the second leg (24b) and the base (24c) have inner sides (25a-25c) facing the inner space (23), at least one guide member (36, 38) attached to the elevator car (6), wherein the at least one guide member (36, 38) contacts at least one guide surface of the at least one guide rail (24) for guiding the elevator car (6) along the guide rail (24).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an elevator system, and more particularly to an elevator system comprising at least one guide rail for guiding the movement of an elevator car. Background Technology

[0002] An elevator system typically includes at least one elevator car configured to move along a shaft extending between multiple floors. Optionally, the elevator system may also include at least one counterweight configured to move simultaneously with the elevator car in the opposite direction.

[0003] At least one elevator car and / or at least one counterweight may be guided along the hoistway via at least one guide rail extending through the hoistway. At least one elevator car and / or at least one counterweight may be equipped with guide components (such as rollers) that contact the guide surfaces of at least one guide rail, and are equipped with at least one safety device configured to frictionally engage with at least one guide rail in an emergency for braking any movement of at least one elevator car / at least one counterweight.

[0004] At least one guide rail occupies some space in the shaft, resulting in an increase in the size of the shaft and / or a decrease in the size of at least one elevator car. In an emergency or for testing purposes, after at least one safety device has been activated, the engagement of that safety device with the guide rail may damage the guide surface of at least one guide rail, preventing the guide components from running smoothly along the guide surface.

[0005] Therefore, it would be beneficial to provide an improved elevator system that includes at least one guide rail, which allows for a more efficient spatial configuration of the elevator system and prevents at least one guide surface from being damaged by at least one safety device. Summary of the Invention

[0006] An elevator system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes an elevator car configured to travel longitudinally in a shaft between a plurality of floors, and at least one guide rail for guiding the elevator car. The at least one guide rail includes a U-shaped profile formed by a first leg and a second leg extending from a base. The first leg, the second leg, and the base define an interior space of the U-shaped profile. Each of the first leg, the second leg, and the base has an inner side facing the interior space. The space outside the interior space of the U-shaped profile is referred to as the space outside the U-shaped profile.

[0007] The elevator system further includes at least one guide member attached to the elevator car and at least one safety device attached to the elevator car. The at least one guide member contacts at least one guide surface of at least one guide rail for guiding the elevator car along the at least one guide rail. The at least one safety device is configured to move freely along the at least one guide rail when not activated, and to engage with at least one engagement surface of the at least one guide rail when activated to stop any movement of the elevator car. The at least one guide surface of the at least one guide rail is not the same as, but different from, the at least one engagement surface of the at least one guide rail.

[0008] In an elevator system according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, including at least one guide rail having a U-shaped profile, the function of guiding the elevator car along the guide rail is assigned to at least one surface of the guide rail, which is different from at least one surface assigned to provide an engagement surface for engaging with at least one safety device for braking any movement of the elevator car. Spatially separating these functions allows for improved spatial arrangement of the guide components(s) and at least one safety device attached to the elevator car. For example, in conventional elevator systems, the guide components(s) and safety devices(s) are typically arranged above each other for interaction with the same surface of the guide rail. This arrangement limits the height of the guide components(s) and safety devices(s). In an elevator system according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the guide components(s) and safety devices(s) can be arranged side by side for interaction with different portions of the guide rail. This arrangement allows for increased height of these components.

[0009] Because the guide surface of at least one guide rail configured to contact at least one guide member and the engagement surface configured to engage with at least one safety device are spatially separated from each other in the elevator system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the guide surface will not be damaged when at least one safety device is activated. Therefore, the operating quality of at least one elevator car will not be reduced, and there is no need to smooth the guide surface after at least one safety device has been activated.

[0010] In an elevator system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a lubricant can be applied to the guide surface to make the elevator car run smoothly without worrying about any potential adverse effect on the braking capability of at least one safety device.

[0011] The guide rail according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is easier and less expensive to manufacture than conventional guide rails with a T-shaped profile.

[0012] Because it includes two legs, the guide rail according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention can provide greater stiffness and / or a more compact external dimension compared to a conventional guide rail having a T-shaped profile that includes only a single leg.

[0013] The first and second legs of the U-shaped profile are arranged at a distance of 80 mm to 100 mm from each other. The first and second legs extend from the base by a length between 50 mm and 75 mm. The base, as well as the first and second legs, may have a thickness in the range of 4 mm to 8 mm, particularly a thickness of 6 mm.

[0014] U-shaped profiles can be formed by bending metal sheets, by hot rolling, by cold drawing, by machining, and / or by extrusion.

[0015] Guide rails with a U-shaped profile formed by bending a sheet metal can be manufactured using fewer bending steps than conventional guide rails with a T-shaped profile. Guide rails with a U-shaped profile, produced by hot rolling, require less cross-sectional change than conventional guide rails with a T-shaped profile. Therefore, guide rails with a U-shaped profile can be manufactured at a lower cost than those with a conventional T-shaped profile.

[0016] In an elevator system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, at least one safety device can be activated by providing at least one fixed trigger point at or within the guide rails. Therefore, at least one safety device can replace a buffer installed in the shaft of a conventional elevator system to provide safety space at the bottom and / or top of the shaft. Replacing the buffer can allow for a reduction in the cost of the elevator system.

[0017] Using the same technology that provides at least one fixed trigger point at or in the guide rail, at least one safety device can be pre-triggered as an additional safety measure before the overspeed governor of the elevator system is operated, for example during the installation phase of the elevator system.

[0018] Several other optional features of the elevator system according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention are described below. Unless otherwise expressly stated, these features may be implemented individually or in combination with any other features in a particular embodiment.

[0019] The first and second legs of the U-shaped profile can extend substantially parallel to each other, and in particular, substantially perpendicular from the base. This rectangular structure is easy to manufacture and provides high stiffness and stability.

[0020] At least one guide surface of at least one guide rail may include the outer surface and / or front surface of at least one of the legs, and at least one guide member may be disposed at least partially on the outer side of the U-shaped profile of the guide rail for contacting the outer surface and / or front surface, respectively. The outer sides of the first leg, the second leg, and the base are sides opposite to the inner sides of the first leg, the second leg, and the base facing the inner space of the U-shaped profile.

[0021] At least one safety device may be arranged at least partially within the interior space of the U-shaped profile, and at least one engagement surface may include the inner surface of the U-shaped profile, particularly the inner surface of one of the legs and / or the inner surface of the base.

[0022] Arranging at least one guide element at least partially on the outside of the U-shaped profile and at least one safety device at least partially in the interior space of the U-shaped profile allows for spatial separation of at least one guide element and at least one safety device.

[0023] An exemplary embodiment of the invention may further include a safety device configured to be disposed between a first leg and a second leg of a guide rail having a U-shaped profile. The safety device includes a first engaging member provided on a first side of the safety device and configured to engage with a first engaging surface provided on the first leg of the U-shaped profile when the safety device is activated. A second engaging member, such as a roller, is provided on an opposite second side of the safety device and configured to engage with a second engaging surface provided on the second leg of the U-shaped profile when the safety device is activated. The safety device further includes at least one resilient element configured to resiliently push the second engaging member against the second engaging surface when the safety device is activated.

[0024] An exemplary embodiment of the present invention may further include an elevator system comprising at least one guide rail having a U-shaped profile and at least one safety device disposed between a first leg and a second leg of the at least one guide rail having a U-shaped profile. The safety device includes a first engagement member provided on a first side of the safety device and configured to engage with a first engagement surface when the safety device is actuated. The first engagement surface is provided on the first leg of the U-shaped profile, and a second engagement surface is provided on the second leg of the U-shaped profile. A second engagement member, such as a roller, is provided on an opposite second side of the safety device and configured to engage with the second engagement surface when the safety device is actuated. The safety device further includes at least one resilient element configured to resiliently push the second engagement member against the second engagement surface when the safety device is actuated.

[0025] When at least one safety device is arranged in a U-shaped profile, it can be designed to be simpler, less costly, and more compact, without being limited in vertical dimensions.

[0026] As the vertical dimension of at least one safety device increases along the guide rail, the contact area between at least one engaging component of the safety device and the guide rail can also increase. Therefore, at least one engaging component can be made of a less expensive material.

[0027] When the guide rail does not extend through at least one safety device, its size and structural strength can be significantly improved.

[0028] At least one guide member is configured to move along a first leg of a U-shaped profile; and at least one safety device is configured to engage with a second leg of the U-shaped profile. In other words, at least one guide surface is formed on the first leg, and at least one engagement surface is formed on the second leg. This configuration results in efficient spatial separation between the at least one guide surface and the at least one engagement surface.

[0029] At least one guide member may include a U-shaped profile surrounding a first leg. Specifically, the U-shaped profile of the guide member may form a guide shoe configured to surround and move along the first leg of the guide rail. This guide shoe provides a highly efficient guide member that does not include any rotating elements.

[0030] Engaging surfaces may be formed on the inner and outer surfaces of the second leg. At least one safety device may be configured to engage with the inner and outer surfaces of the second leg. Providing two engaging surfaces on the second leg enhances the braking capability of at least one safety device.

[0031] In another embodiment, at least one guide member may be configured to move inside the U-shaped profile, and at least one safety device may be configured to engage with at least one outer surface of the U-shaped profile.

[0032] At least one guide member may include at least one roller configured to roll along at least one guide surface. Providing at least one roller to at least one guide member can reduce friction between at least one guide member and at least one guide surface.

[0033] The surface properties of at least one guiding surface and at least one mating surface may be identical. Guide rails in which at least one guiding surface and at least one mating surface have identical surface properties are easy to manufacture at low cost.

[0034] Alternatively, at least one guide surface and at least one engagement surface may have different surface properties. In particular, at least one engagement surface may have a greater surface roughness than at least one guide surface in order to enhance the braking capability of at least one safety device by increasing the friction between at least one engagement surface and engagement components(s).

[0035] An elevator system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention may further include a counterweight configured to move simultaneously with the elevator car in opposite directions. The elevator system may include at least one counterweight guide rail for guiding the counterweight, wherein the at least one counterweight guide rail includes a U-shaped profile having a first leg and a second leg extending from a base. The elevator system may further include at least one counterweight guide member attached to the counterweight, wherein the at least one guide rail contacts at least one guide surface of the at least one counterweight guide rail for guiding the counterweight along the counterweight guide rail; and at least one counterweight safety device attached to the counterweight. The at least one counterweight safety device may be configured to move along the counterweight guide rail and to engage with at least one engagement surface of the at least one counterweight guide rail when the at least one counterweight safety device is activated, in order to stop the movement of the counterweight. The at least one guide surface of the at least one counterweight guide rail may be different from the at least one engagement surface of the at least one counterweight guide rail.

[0036] The advantages of U-shaped guide rails, which have been discussed previously in relation to guide rails used to guide elevator cars, also apply to U-shaped counterweight guide rails. Attached Figure Description

[0037] In the following description, exemplary embodiments of the invention are described in more detail with respect to the accompanying drawings: Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an elevator system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is depicted.

[0038] Figures 2A to 2D A schematic cross-sectional view of a guide rail according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is depicted.

[0039] Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of a guide rail mounted to a support member according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is depicted.

[0040] Figure 4A A schematic cross-sectional view of an elevator car guided by two guide rails according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is depicted.

[0041] Figure 4B Depicting Figure 4A The image shows an enlarged view of the two guide rollers and one of the two guide rails depicted.

[0042] Figure 5AA schematic cross-sectional view of an elevator car in a shaft, guided by two guide rails, is depicted according to another exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0043] Figure 5B Depicting Figure 5A An enlarged view of the two guide rollers and one of the two guide rails depicted in the image.

[0044] Figure 6 A cross-sectional view through a safety device that can be arranged in a guide rail is depicted according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 7 A guide structure for guiding an elevator car along guide rails is depicted according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 8 Depicting crossing Figure 7 The cross-sectional view of the safety devices that can be used in the guide structure depicted in the figure. Detailed Implementation

[0047] Figure 1 An elevator system 2 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is schematically depicted.

[0048] Elevator system 2 includes a shaft 4 extending in the longitudinal direction LD between multiple stations 8 located on different floors. Elevator system 2 includes an elevator car 6 arranged in the shaft 4 for movement between the multiple stations 8 in the longitudinal direction LD. The elevator car 6 is specifically movable along at least one elevator car guide rail 14 provided in the shaft 4 and extending in the longitudinal direction LD.

[0049] like Figure 1 As depicted, the longitudinal direction LD can be oriented along the vertical direction. In an alternative embodiment not shown in the figure, the longitudinal direction LD can be tilted relative to the vertical direction.

[0050] although Figure 1 Only a single elevator car guide rail 14 is depicted, but the elevator system 2 may include multiple elevator car guide rails 14 extending parallel to each other.

[0051] although Figure 1 Only a single elevator car 6 is depicted in the illustration, but exemplary embodiments of the present invention may also include an elevator system 2 comprising a plurality of elevator cars 6 moving in one or more shafts 4.

[0052] The elevator car 6 is movably suspended by means of the tension member 3. Although Figure 1 Only a single tension member 3 is depicted in the illustration, but exemplary embodiments of the present invention may also include an elevator system 2 comprising multiple tension members 3.

[0053] At least one tension member 3 (e.g., a rope or belt) is connected to the elevator drive system 5. The elevator drive system 5 includes a motor 9 for rotatably driving the shaft 12, and a drive 17 for utilizing and controlling the electrical energy supplied to the motor 9. The elevator drive system 5 is configured to drive at least one tension member 3 connected to the shaft 12 via traction, so as to move the elevator car 6 in the longitudinal direction LD in the hoistway 4 between a plurality of floors 8.

[0054] The elevator drive system 5 is further provided with at least one elevator brake 20 for braking the rotation of the shaft 12 so as to stop the movement of the elevator car 6 and hold the elevator car 6 at the desired position in the hoistway 4.

[0055] Optionally, the elevator system 2 may include a counterweight 16. The counterweight 16 may be attached to at least one tension member 3 opposite to the elevator car 6 and configured to move simultaneously and in opposite directions relative to the elevator car 6. The counterweight 16 may move along at least one counterweight guide rail 22 provided in the hoistway 4 and extending in the longitudinal direction LD.

[0056] At least one tension member 3 may be a rope (e.g., a steel rope) or a belt (particularly a coated steel belt). At least one tension member 3 may be uncoated. Alternatively, at least one tension member 3 may be coated, for example, with a coating having a polymer sheath. In a particular embodiment, at least one tension member 3 may be a belt comprising multiple polymer-coated steel ropes (not shown). The elevator system 2 may have a traction drive that includes a traction pulley for driving at least one tension member 3.

[0057] exist Figure 1 In the exemplary embodiment shown, a 1:1 rope is used to suspend the elevator car 6. However, the type of rope is not required for the present invention, and different types of ropes, such as 2:1 or 4:1 ropes, may also be used.

[0058] Landing doors 10 are provided at each of the landings 8. The elevator car 6 is provided with corresponding elevator car doors 11 to allow passengers to move between the interior of the landing and the elevator car 6 when the elevator car 6 is positioned at the corresponding landing.

[0059] In order for the elevator car 6 to move along the shaft 4 between different floors 8, the elevator drive system 5 can be controlled by the elevator controller 15 of the elevator system 2.

[0060] Elevator system 2 may be a machine-room-less elevator system 2. In an alternative embodiment, elevator system 2 may include a machine room 13 that houses elevator drive system 5 and elevator controller 15.

[0061] Input to the elevator controller 15 may be provided via a landing control panel 7a provided at each landing 8 (particularly near the landing door 10) and / or via an elevator car control panel 7b provided inside the elevator car 6.

[0062] The landing control panel 7a may include elevator hall call buttons and / or destination call buttons. The destination call buttons allow passengers to enter their respective destinations before entering the elevator car 6. With the landing control panel 7a equipped with destination call buttons, there is no need to provide an elevator car control panel 7b inside the elevator car 6, because the elevator system 2 is entirely controlled by commands input via the landing control panel 7a.

[0063] The floor control panel 7a and the elevator car control panel 7b can be used with Figure 1 The elevator controller 15 is connected by wires (particularly via an electrical bus) or via a wireless data connection, which are not shown in the diagram.

[0064] Figure 2A A schematic cross-sectional view of a guide rail 24 with a U-shaped profile according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is depicted.

[0065] like Figure 1 As depicted, the guide rail 24 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention can be used as an elevator car guide rail 14 and / or a counterweight guide rail 22.

[0066] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a guide rail 24 having a U-shaped profile includes a first leg 24a and a second leg 24b extending parallel to each other from a base 24c. For example... Figure 2A As depicted, the first leg 24a and the second leg 24b may be oriented particularly perpendicular to the base 24c.

[0067] The first leg 24a and the second leg 24b may have a length L in the range of 80 mm to 100 mm, particularly in the range of 85 mm to 90 mm.

[0068] The base 24c may have a width W in the range of 50 mm to 75 mm, particularly in the range of 55 mm to 60 mm.

[0069] The first leg 24a, the second leg 24b, and the base 24c may have a thickness d in the range of 4 mm to 8 mm, particularly 6 mm.

[0070] The first leg 24a, the second leg 24b, and the base 24c define an interior space 23 of the U-shaped profile 24. Each of the first leg 24a, the second leg 24b, and the base 24c has an inner side 25a-25c facing the interior space 23 and an outer side 27a-27c facing away from the interior space 23.

[0071] Guide rail 24 can be formed by bending a metal plate. For example... Figure 2B As depicted, this can result in a circular transition between the base 24c and each of the first leg 24a and the second leg 24b.

[0072] The guide rail 24 can also be manufactured by hot rolling, cold drawing, machining and / or extrusion.

[0073] Figure 2C and 2D The image depicts a schematic cross-sectional view of a guide rail 24 manufactured by hot rolling according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0074] like Figure 2C and 2D As depicted, circular undercuts 26a and 26b may be formed at the transition between the base 24c and each of the legs 24a and 24b. Providing such circular undercuts 26a and 26b reduces mechanical stress in the area. Reduced mechanical stress results in less wear and a longer lifespan for the guide rail 24.

[0075] Alternative locations or others, such as Figure 2D As illustrated, protrusions 28a and 28b may be formed at the outer edge of the base 24c to further enhance the rigidity and strength of the guide rail 24.

[0076] exist Figure 2D In the exemplary embodiments depicted, each of the protrusions 28a, 28b has a triangular cross-section. Other shapes of the protrusions 28a, 28b are also possible in other embodiments not explicitly depicted in the figures.

[0077] Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of a guide rail 24 mounted to a support member 34 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is depicted. The support member 34 may be provided at the wall of the shaft 4 of the elevator system 2.

[0078] The guide rail 24 can be mounted to the support 34 using a fixing element 30 (such as a bolt, rivet or screw) that extends through the base 24c of the guide rail 24.

[0079] Alternatively or additionally, bracket 32 ​​can be used to secure guide rail 24 to support member 34. Fixing element 30 can be used to secure bracket 32 ​​to support member 34.

[0080] Figure 4A A schematic cross-sectional view of an elevator car 6 guided by two guide rails 24 in a shaft 4, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, is depicted. Figure 4A In the diagram depicted, the cross-sectional plane is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction LD; that is, the elevator car 6 is perpendicular to... Figure 4A The view plane moves.

[0081] Figure 4A The elevator car 6 depicted includes four guide components 26, specifically four guide rollers 36, which are configured to guide the elevator car 6 along guide rails 24. Two guide rollers 36 are provided on each side of the elevator car 6. Each guide roller 36 contacts a U-shaped guide rail 24 provided next to the corresponding side of the elevator car 6.

[0082] Figure 4B An enlarged view depicts the guide rollers 36 and guide rails 24 provided on the right side of the elevator car 6. Figure 4B The elevator car 6 is not depicted in the text.

[0083] exist Figure 4A and 4B In the embodiment depicted, guide surfaces are provided on the end faces of the first leg 24a and the second leg 24b facing the elevator car 6, and guide rollers 36 are configured to contact and roll along the end faces of the first leg 24a and the second leg 24b.

[0084] The elevator car 6 further includes two safety devices 40 provided on the lateral side of the elevator car 6. The safety devices 40 are configured to move along the guide rail 24 simultaneously with the elevator car 6 during normal operation without engaging with the guide rail 24. The safety devices 40 are further configured to engage with the guide rail 24 in an emergency for braking and / or to prevent any movement of the elevator car 6 along the guide rail 24.

[0085] exist Figure 4A and 4B In the exemplary embodiment depicted, each of the safety devices 40 is arranged in the interior space 23 of one of the guide rails 24, resulting in a space-saving configuration of the elevator system 2.

[0086] Each of the safety devices 40 includes two engaging parts 42a, 42b configured to engage frictionally with the inner sides 25a, 25b of the first leg 24a and the second leg 24b of the respective guide rail 24 when the respective safety device 40 is activated, in order to stop any movement of the elevator car 6.

[0087] The inner sides 25a and 25b of the first leg 24a and the second leg 24b are the mating surfaces of the corresponding guide rails 24, which are configured to engage with the corresponding mating parts 42a and 42b of the corresponding safety device 40 when the safety device 40 is activated.

[0088] exist Figure 4A and 4BIn the exemplary embodiment depicted herein, the guide roller 36 is rotatable about axis A, which is oriented parallel to the corresponding side of the elevator car 6.

[0089] Figure 5A and 5B An alternative embodiment is described, wherein the axis A of the guide roller 36 is oriented perpendicular to the corresponding lateral side of the elevator car 6.

[0090] Figure 5A A schematic cross-sectional view of an elevator car 6 in a shaft 4 guided by two guide rails 24, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, is depicted. Figure 5B An enlarged view depicts the guide rollers 36 and guide rails 24 provided on the right side of the elevator car 6. Figure 5B The elevator car 6 is not depicted in the text.

[0091] exist Figure 5A and 5B In the embodiment shown, the guide roller 36 does not contact the end faces of the first leg 24a and the second leg 24b facing the elevator car 6.

[0092] Instead, the guide roller 36 is configured to contact and roll along the outer sides 27a, 27b of the first leg 24a and the second leg 24b (i.e. the sides of the first leg 24a and the second leg 24b that are away from the inner space 23 formed by the first leg 24a, the second leg 24b and the base 24c).

[0093] Therefore, the outer sides 27a, 27b of the first leg 24a and the second leg 24b form guide surfaces for guiding the guide roller 36 along the guide rail 24.

[0094] The elevator car 6 further includes two safety devices 40 provided on the lateral side of the elevator car 6. Figure 4A and Figure 4B Similar to the embodiments depicted, the safety device 40 is arranged within the internal space 23 of the corresponding guide rail 24. (See reference...) Figure 4A and Figure 4B The foregoing description of safety device 40 also applies. Figure 5A and Figure 5B Safety device 40 of the embodiment described herein.

[0095] In such Figures 4A to 5B In the elevator system 2 of the present invention as depicted, the guide surface of the guide roller 36 of the contact guide rail 24 is spatially separated from the engagement surface configured to engage with the engagement parts 42a, 42b of the safety device 40.

[0096] As a result, when the safety device 40 is activated, the guide surface used to guide the rollers 36 remains unaffected. This reduces the need for maintenance and / or upkeep of the guide rails 24, especially after the safety device 40 has been activated. This further enhances the passenger comfort inside the elevator car 6.

[0097] To reduce wear and allow for smooth elevator car operation, low friction between the guide rollers 36 and their corresponding guide surfaces is desirable. In contrast, to allow for rapid and efficient braking of the elevator car 6 when the safety device 40 is activated, high friction between the engagement parts 42a, 42b of the safety device 40 and their corresponding engagement surfaces on the guide rail 24 is desirable.

[0098] Spatially separating the guiding surface from the mating surface further allows for the provision of guiding and mating surfaces with different surface properties. The mating surface can, in particular, have a greater surface roughness than the guiding surface.

[0099] Spatially separating the guide surface and the engagement surface further allows lubricant to be applied to the guide surface without negatively impacting the braking performance of the engagement surface.

[0100] Figure 6 Depicting passing through, like Figures 4A to 5B The figure depicts a cross-sectional view of a safety device 40 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, which can be arranged in the interior space 23 of a guide rail 24 having a U-shaped profile.

[0101] Figure 6 The safety device 40 depicted includes a first engagement member 42a (particularly a brake shoe) and a second engagement member 42b (particularly provided in the form of a roller).

[0102] The first engaging member 42a and the second engaging member 42b are arranged on opposite sides of the safety device 40. The first engaging member 42a is specifically provided on the side of the first leg 24a facing the guide rail 24 of the safety device 40, and the second engaging member 42b is provided on the opposite side of the second leg 24b facing the guide rail 24 of the safety device 40.

[0103] The safety device 40 further includes an elastic element 44 disposed between the first engaging member 42a and the second engaging member 42b. The elastic element 44 has a first end 44a and a second end 44b and extends between the two spring retaining devices 46a, 46b.

[0104] The elastic element 44 may include at least one leaf spring. Optionally, the elastic element 44 may include a plurality of leaf springs extending parallel to each other. The elastic element 44 may specifically include a plurality of leaf springs arranged in a sandwich configuration on top of each other, forming a stack of leaf springs. The thickness of the elastic element 44 depends on its length and the load for which the safety device 40 is designed.

[0105] The elastic element 44 extends at an angle relative to the first leg 24a and the second leg 24b of the guide member 24, such that the first end 44a is closer to the second leg 24b than the second end 44b, defining a tapering region between the second leg 24b and the elastic element 44. For example, the elastic element 44 may be arranged at an angle between 3° and 15° relative to the second leg 24b.

[0106] The second engaging member 42b, provided as a roller, is movably arranged within the tapered region defined by the elastic element 44 and the second leg 42b.

[0107] like Figure 6 As depicted, when the safety device 40 is in a standby configuration where it is not activated, the second engaging member 42b is in a standby position where it does not contact the second leg 24b of the guide rail 24. (As described in the original text...) Figure 6 As shown in the second engagement member 42b depicted, the standby position of the second engagement member 42b may be located particularly near the second end 44b of the elastic element 44.

[0108] When the safety device 40 is in standby mode, the elevator car 6 to which the safety device 40 is attached or the elevator counterweight 16 can move freely along the guide rail 24.

[0109] In order to activate the safety device 40, the second engagement member 42b passes through Figure 6 The actuation mechanism, not depicted in the text, moves toward the second leg 24b.

[0110] The second engaging member 42b contacts the second leg 24b, resulting in frictional engagement between the second engaging member 42b and the second leg 24b. Due to this frictional engagement, downward movement of the safety device 40 relative to the second leg 24b causes the second engaging member 42b to be on one side ( Figure 6 On the left side of the second engaging member 42b, it rolls along the second leg 24b, and on the other side ( Figure 6 It rolls upward along the elastic element 44 on the right side of the second engaging part 42b.

[0111] The safety device 40 may further include a stop 48 located near the second end 44b of the elastic element 44 and configured to prevent the second engaging member 42b from moving beyond the second end 44b of the elastic element 44.

[0112] Due to the tilted orientation of the elastic element 44 relative to the second leg 24b, the movement of the second engaging member 42b causes the second engaging member 42b to move into a wedge-in state, wherein the second engaging member 42b is sandwiched between the second leg 24b and the elastic element 44.

[0113] In the wedged state, the elastic element 44 presses the second engaging member 42b against the second leg 24b, generating a braking force between the second leg 24b and the roller 42. Furthermore, the first engaging member 42a presses against the first leg 24a of the guide rail 24, generating a braking force between the second leg 24a and the first engaging member 42a. This braking force restrains the movement of the safety device 40 relative to the first leg 24a and the second leg 24b of the guide rail 24 until the movement stops.

[0114] like Figure 6 As depicted, arranging the safety device 40 in the interior space 23 of one of the guide rails 24 allows for a space-saving construction of the elevator system 2.

[0115] Figure 7 A guide structure for guiding an elevator car 6 along guide rail 24 is shown according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0116] To enhance the clarity of the illustration, Figure 7 The text only depicts the beams of elevator car 6, especially column 50.

[0117] The U-shaped guide component 38 and the safety device 40 are installed on the column 50 of the elevator car 6 for simultaneous movement with the elevator car 6 in the longitudinal direction LD along the guide rail 24.

[0118] The U-shaped guide member 38 includes a first leg 38a and a second leg 38b extending parallel to each other from the base 38c. In particular, the first leg 38a and the second leg 38b may be oriented perpendicular to the base 38c.

[0119] For example, the U-shaped guide member 38 can be made by bending a metal sheet. The U-shaped guide member 38 can also be manufactured by hot rolling, by cold drawing, by machining and / or by extrusion.

[0120] The U-shaped profile defines the internal space of the U-shaped guide component 38.

[0121] The outer end portion of the second leg 24b of the guide rail 24 is accommodated within the internal space of the U-shaped guide member 38. Therefore, the U-shaped guide member 38 is guided along the second leg 24b of the guide rail 24.

[0122] exist Figure 7In the embodiment depicted, the safety device 40 is arranged partly inside and partly outside the guide rail 24 at the first leg 24a, wherein the first leg 24a of the guide rail 24 extends through the safety device 40 in the longitudinal direction LD.

[0123] Figure 8 For a cross-sectional view through the safety device 40, the safety device 40 can be in the following manner: Figure 7 The structure and guide rail 24 described herein are used together.

[0124] exist Figure 7 and Figure 8 In the embodiment depicted, the safety device 40 includes a passage 45 extending through the safety device 40. The passage 45 is configured to receive a portion of a first leg 24a of a guide rail 24 extending through the safety device 40 in the longitudinal direction LD.

[0125] A first engaging member 42a, particularly a brake shoe, is arranged on a first side of the passage 45, and a second engaging member 42b, particularly a roller, is arranged on the opposite second side of the passage 45.

[0126] and Figure 6 Similar to the embodiment depicted, the safety device 40 includes a tilting resilient element 44 configured to resiliently push the second engaging member 42b against the first leg 24a of the guide rail 24 when the safety device 40 is activated, as previously described relative to... Figure 6 An exemplary embodiment of the safety device 40 depicted herein has been described as such.

[0127] The second engaging member 42b is movably arranged within the tapered region defined by the first leg 24a and the elastic element 44.

[0128] like Figure 8 As depicted, when the safety device 40 is in a standby configuration in which the safety device 40 is not activated, the second engaging member 42b is located in a standby position in which it does not contact the first leg 24a. Figure 8 As shown, the standby position of the second engagement member 42b may be located, in particular, near the second end 44b of the elastic element 44.

[0129] In the structure to be constructed, the safety device 40, and therefore the elevator car 6 to which the safety device 40 is installed, can move freely in the longitudinal direction LD along the first leg 24a of the guide rail 24.

[0130] In order to activate the safety device 40, the second engagement member 42b moves toward the first leg 24a via an activation mechanism (not shown in the figure).

[0131] The contact of the second engaging member 42b with the first leg 24a results in frictional contact between the second engaging member 42b and the first leg 24a. Due to this frictional contact, downward movement of the safety device 40 relative to the first leg 24a causes the second engaging member 42b to move to one side ( Figure 8 On the left side of the second engaging member 42b, it rolls along the first leg 24a and on the other side ( Figure 8 It rolls upward along the elastic element 44 on the right side of the second engaging part 42b.

[0132] Due to the tilted orientation of the elastic element 44 relative to the first leg 24a, this movement of the second engaging member 42b causes the second engaging member 42b to move into a wedge-in state, wherein the second engaging member 42b is sandwiched between the first leg 24a and the elastic element 44.

[0133] In the wedge-engaged state, the second engaging member 42b presses against the first leg 24a, generating a braking force between the first leg 24a and the first engaging member 42a and the second engaging member 42b of the safety device 40. This braking force restrains the movement of the safety device 40 relative to the first leg 24a until the movement stops.

[0134] Because in Figure 7 In the embodiment depicted, the second engagement member 42b of the safety device 40 engages with the first leg 24a of the guide rail 24, and the U-shaped guide member 38 moves along the second leg 24b, thus providing an engagement surface at the first leg 24a that is separate from the guide surface provided at the second leg 24b.

[0135] therefore, Figure 7 The embodiments described also offer the advantage of separating the guide surface from the engagement surface of the guide rail 24, as previously referenced. Figures 4A to 5B It has been described.

[0136] exist Figure 7 and Figure 8 In the embodiment depicted, the safety device 40 is arranged at the first leg 24a of the guide rail 24, and the U-shaped guide member 38 is arranged at the second leg 24b of the guide rail 24.

[0137] In an alternative embodiment not explicitly depicted in the figure, the safety device 40 may be arranged at the second leg 24b of the guide rail 24, and the U-shaped guide member 38 may be arranged at the first leg 24a of the guide rail 24.

[0138] An exemplary embodiment of the elevator system 2 according to the present invention has been described with reference to elevator car 6. Figures 2A to 8The corresponding description applies to an elevator system 2 comprising at least one counterweight 16 guided along a shaft 4 by a U-shaped guide rail 24 serving as a counterweight guide rail 22.

[0139] Figure 6 and Figure 8 The safety device 40 depicted is configured to brake the downward movement of the corresponding safety device 40 relative to the guide rail 24.

[0140] Alternatively, the elevator system 2 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention may also include at least one safety device 40 configured to brake the upward movement of the elevator car 6 or the counterweight 16.

[0141] Safety device 40, configured to brake upward movement, is oriented relative to Figure 6 and Figure 8 The safety device 40 depicted is in an inverted orientation. In this inverted orientation, the first end 44a of the elastic element 44, which is arranged closer to the second leg 24b than the opposite second end 44b, is arranged below the second end 44b.

[0142] Although the invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements therein without departing from the scope of the invention. Furthermore, many modifications may be made to adapt particular situations or materials to the teachings of the invention without departing from the essential scope of the invention. Therefore, the invention is not intended to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, but rather to cover all embodiments within the scope of the appended claims.

[0143] refer to 2. Elevator System 3 Tension members 4 shafts 5. Drive System 6. Elevator car 7a Floor Station Control Panel 7b Elevator car control panel 8-story station 9 motors 10th floor station door 10a Floor Station Door Panel 11. Elevator car door 12-axis 13 Computer Room 14. Elevator car guide rails 15. Elevator controller 16 pairs of weights 17 drives 20 Elevator brake 22 counterweight guide rails 24 guide rails 24a First leg 24b Second leg 24c base 25a The inner side of the first leg 25b The inner side of the second leg 25c Inner side of the base 26. Bottom cut 27a The outer side of the first leg 27b The outer side of the second leg 28 protrusions 30 Fixed components 32 latches 34 Support components 36 guide rollers 38 U-shaped guide components 38a First leg 38b Second leg 38c base 40 Safety devices 42a First joint component 42b Second joint component 44 Elastic elements 44a First end 44b Second end 45 access 46a First Spring Fixing Device 46b Second Spring Fixing Device 48 Stop components 50 columns.

Claims

1. An elevator system (2), comprising: An elevator car (6) is configured to travel in the hoistway (4) in the longitudinal direction (LD) between multiple floors (8). At least one guide rail (14; 24) for guiding the elevator car (6), wherein the at least one guide rail (14; 24) includes a U-shaped profile formed by a first leg (24a) and a second leg (24b) extending from a base (24c), wherein the U-shaped profile defines an interior space (23) of the U-shaped profile, and the first leg (24a) and the second leg (24b) and the base (24c) have inner sides (25a-25c) facing the interior space (23). At least one guide member (36, 38) is attached to the elevator car (6), wherein the at least one guide member (36, 38) contacts at least one guide surface of the at least one guide rail (14; 24) for guiding the elevator car (6) along the at least one guide rail (14; 24); and At least one safety device (40) is attached to the elevator car (6), wherein the at least one safety device (40) is configured to move along the at least one guide rail (14; 24) and to engage with at least one mating surface of the at least one guide rail (14; 24) when the at least one safety device (40) is activated in order to stop the movement of the elevator car (6); The at least one guiding surface of the at least one guide rail (14; 24) is different from the at least one mating surface of the at least one guide rail (14; 24).

2. An elevator system (2), comprising: An elevator car (6) is constructed to travel in the shaft (4) in the longitudinal direction (LD) between multiple floors (8). A counterweight (16) is configured to move simultaneously with the elevator car (6) in the opposite direction. At least one guide rail (22; 24) for guiding the counterweight (16), wherein the at least one guide rail (22; 24) includes a U-shaped profile having a first leg (24a) and a second leg (24b) extending from the base (24c). At least one guide member (36, 38) is attached to the counterweight (16), wherein the at least one guide member (36, 38) contacts at least one guide surface of the at least one guide rail (22; 24) for guiding the counterweight (16) along the guide rail (22; 24). At least one safety device (40) is attached to the counterweight (16), wherein the at least one safety device (40) is configured to move along the guide rail (22; 24) and to engage with at least one mating surface of the at least one guide rail (22; 24) when the at least one safety device (40) is activated in order to stop the movement of the counterweight (16); The at least one guiding surface of the at least one guide rail (22; 24) is different from the at least one mating surface of the at least one guide rail (22; 24); Specifically, the elevator system (2) is the elevator system (2) according to claim 1.

3. The elevator system (2) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein, The first leg (24a) and the second leg (24b) extend substantially parallel to each other, and in particular extend substantially perpendicularly from the base (24c).

4. The elevator system (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The at least one guide member (36, 38) is arranged at least partially on the outside of the U-shaped profile of the guide rail (24), and the at least one guide surface of the at least one guide rail (24) includes the outer surface or front surface of at least one of the first leg (24a) and the second leg (24b).

5. The elevator system (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The at least one safety device (40) is arranged at least partially in the interior space (23) of the U-shaped profile, and the at least one engagement surface includes the inner surfaces (25a-25b) of the U-shaped profile, particularly the inner surfaces (25a, 25b) of one of the first leg (24a) and the second leg (24b) of the U-shaped profile and / or the inner surface (25c) of the base (24c).

6. The elevator system (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The at least one guide member (36, 38) is configured to move along the first leg (24a) of the U-shaped profile; and the at least one safety device (40) is configured to engage with the second leg (24b) of the U-shaped profile; The at least one guiding surface is formed on the first leg (24a), and the at least one engaging surface is formed on the second leg (24b).

7. The elevator system (2) according to claim 6, wherein, The at least one guide member (38) includes a U-shaped profile surrounding the first leg (24a), wherein, in particular, the U-shaped profile of the guide member (38) forms a guide hoof surrounding the first leg (24a).

8. The elevator system (2) according to claim 6 or claim 7, wherein, Engaging surfaces are formed on the inner surface (25b) and outer surface (27b) of the second leg (24b), and wherein the at least one safety device (40) is configured to engage with the inner surface (25b) and outer surface (27b) of the second leg (24b).

9. The elevator system (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The at least one guide member (36) includes at least one roller configured to roll along the at least one guide surface.

10. The elevator system (2) according to any one of the preceding claims. in, The surface characteristics of the at least one guiding surface and the at least one mating surface are the same, or The at least one guiding surface and the at least one mating surface have different surface properties; in particular, the at least one mating surface has a greater surface roughness than the at least one guiding surface.

11. The elevator system (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The elevator system (2) is a bufferless elevator system (2) that does not include any buffers at the bottom and / or top of the shaft (4).

12. The elevator system (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The first leg (24a) and the second leg (24b) of the U-shaped profile are arranged at a distance of 80 mm to 100 mm from each other; and / or wherein the first leg (24a) and the second leg (24b) extend from the base (24c) over a length between 50 mm and 75 mm.

13. The elevator system (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The U-shaped profile is formed by bending metal sheets, by hot rolling, by cold drawing, by machining and / or by extrusion.

14. A safety device (40) configured for placement between a first leg (24a) and a second leg (24b) of a guide rail (24) having a U-shaped profile, wherein the safety device (40) comprises: A first engaging member (42a) is provided on a first side of the safety device (40) and configured to engage with a first engaging surface provided on a first leg (24a) of the U-shaped profile when the safety device (40) is activated; The second engagement component (42b), in particular the roller, is provided on the opposite second side of the safety device (40) and is configured to engage with the second engagement surface provided on the second leg (24b) of the U-shaped profile when the safety device (40) is activated; and At least one elastic element (44) is configured to elastically push the second engagement member (42b) against the second engagement surface when the safety device (40) is activated.

15. The elevator system (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, comprising at least one safety device (40) according to claim 14.

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