Elevator car ceiling access system

Abstract

An elevator ceiling access system includes a ceiling panel of an elevator car and a platform assembly movably attached to the ceiling panel. The platform assembly includes a platform and a ladder deployable from the platform. The platform assembly is deployable from a stowed condition to a deployed condition, and in the deployed condition, a position of the platform is adjustable within the elevator car and the platform is supported on one side by the ladder and on an opposite side by the ceiling panel.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The topics disclosed in this article generally relate to elevator systems, and more particularly to elevator access systems, and especially to elevator car ceiling access systems. Background Technology

[0002] Elevator systems require maintenance of various components, some of which are located outside the interior of the elevator car. These components may be situated on the external structure of the elevator car and / or within the elevator shaft. Performing maintenance on these components may require technicians to gain access to the exterior of the elevator car. In some elevator systems, the elevator car may be equipped with a ceiling access panel or similar opening to allow technicians access to the top of the elevator car from the interior. Ceiling access panels are manually operable and may be difficult to access depending on the size or dimensions of the elevator car. Therefore, improved access and operation of the elevator car's ceiling access panel may be advantageous. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to some embodiments, an elevator ceiling access system is provided. The elevator ceiling access system includes a ceiling panel of an elevator car and a platform assembly movably attached to the ceiling panel. The platform assembly includes a platform and a ladder deployable from the platform. The platform assembly can be deployed from a retracted state to a deployed state, wherein, in the deployed state, the position of the platform is adjustable within the elevator car, and the platform is supported on one side by the ladder and on the opposite side by the ceiling panel.

[0004] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, another embodiment of the elevator ceiling access system may include a ceiling frame to which the ceiling panel is pivotally mounted.

[0005] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, another embodiment of the elevator ceiling access system may include a locking element configured to releasably secure the ceiling panel to the ceiling frame.

[0006] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, another embodiment of the elevator ceiling access system may include at least one biasing element configured to support a ceiling panel and connect it to a ceiling frame.

[0007] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, another embodiment of the elevator ceiling access system may include: a ceiling panel hinged or pivotally attached to the ceiling frame via one or more hinge elements.

[0008] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, another embodiment of the elevator ceiling access system may include at least one mounting rail configured as part of or attached to a ceiling panel, wherein the platform assembly is supported on the at least one mounting rail in both a retracted and deployed state.

[0009] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, another embodiment of the elevator ceiling access system may include: a platform assembly including at least one platform rail pivotally connected to at least one mounting rail.

[0010] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, another embodiment of the elevator ceiling access system may include: the at least one mounting rail is pivotally connected to the platform at one end of the at least one mounting rail, and the opposite end of the at least one mounting rail is slidably mounted on a sliding rail.

[0011] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, another embodiment of the elevator ceiling access system may include a support bracket arranged on a ceiling panel, wherein the at least one mounting rail is configured to selectively attach to the support bracket.

[0012] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, another embodiment of the elevator ceiling access system may include a platform component that further includes a safety railing system configured to be attached to the platform.

[0013] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, another embodiment of the elevator ceiling access system may include: a safety railing system including a retractable element configured to be stored on the platform assembly when the platform assembly is in a retracted state.

[0014] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, another embodiment of the elevator ceiling access system may include: a ladder hingedly attached to the platform.

[0015] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, another embodiment of the elevator ceiling access system may include: a platform adjustable along one or more platform rails in a first direction and adjustable along a sliding rail in a second direction, wherein the first and second directions are perpendicular to each other.

[0016] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, another embodiment of the elevator ceiling access system may include: a platform component configured to unfold from a retracted state to a deployed state from a ceiling panel.

[0017] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, another embodiment of the elevator ceiling access system may include a ladder releasably fixed to the platform via a ladder lock.

[0018] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, another embodiment of the elevator ceiling access system may include: a platform assembly releasably fixed to a ceiling panel via at least one platform lock.

[0019] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, another embodiment of the elevator ceiling access system may include: the ladder is a foldable ladder.

[0020] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, another embodiment of the elevator ceiling access system may include: the ladder is a telescopic ladder.

[0021] According to some embodiments, an elevator system is provided. The elevator system includes: an elevator car having a floor, a ceiling, and sidewalls defining the interior of the elevator car; a ceiling frame defining an opening in the ceiling of the elevator car; a ceiling panel arranged to cover the opening and configured to be opened to expose the opening; and a platform assembly movably attached to the ceiling panel. The platform assembly includes a platform and a ladder deployable from the platform, wherein the platform assembly is deployable from a retracted state to a deployed state, wherein in the deployed state, the position of the platform is adjustable within the elevator car, and the platform is supported on one side by the ladder and on the opposite side by the ceiling panel.

[0022] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, another embodiment of the elevator system may include: the elevator car is an overhead traction elevator car.

[0023] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, another embodiment of the elevator system may include: when in deployment, the platform is adjustable in both the width and depth directions of the car while being supported on one or more mounting rails.

[0024] Unless otherwise expressly stated, the foregoing features and elements may be combined in various combinations without exclusivity. These features and elements, and their operation, will become more apparent from the following description and accompanying drawings. However, it should be understood that the following description and drawings are intended to be illustrative and explanatory in nature, and are not restrictive. Attached Figure Description

[0025] This subject matter is specifically pointed out and explicitly claimed in the conclusion of the specification. The foregoing and other features and advantages of this disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 These are schematic illustrations of elevator systems that may employ various embodiments of the present disclosure; Figure 2 These are schematic illustrations of landing doors of elevator systems that may employ various embodiments of the present disclosure; Figure 3 This is a schematic illustration of an elevator car with an elevator ceiling panel access system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 4A This is a schematic illustration of an elevator ceiling panel access system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the ceiling panel is shown in a closed state; Figure 4B It is shown as being in the open state. Figure 4A A diagram illustrating the elevator ceiling panel entering the system; Figure 4C It is shown as being in a partially deployed state. Figure 4A A diagram illustrating the elevator ceiling panel entering the system; Figure 4D It is shown as being in the deployment state. Figure 4A A diagram illustrating the elevator ceiling panel entering the system; Figure 5A This is a schematic illustration of a portion of an elevator ceiling panel access system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 5B yes Figure 5A A schematic diagram of the elevator ceiling panel entering another part of the system; Figure 6 This is a schematic illustration of a portion of an elevator ceiling panel access system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, shown in a deployed state; Figure 7 This is a schematic illustration of a portion of an elevator ceiling panel access system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, shown in a retracted state; Figure 8 This is a schematic illustration of an elevator ceiling panel access system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, which includes a safety railing system; Figure 9 This is a schematic illustration of an elevator and an elevator ceiling access system according to another embodiment of the present disclosure; and Figure 10 This is a schematic illustration of an elevator and an elevator ceiling access system according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0026] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of elevator system 101, which includes elevator car 103, counterweight 105, rope system 107, guide rails 109, machine 111, position encoder 113, and elevator controller 115. Elevator car 103 and counterweight 105 are connected to each other via rope system 107. Rope system 107 may include or be configured as, for example, ropes, cables, and / or coated steel strips. Counterweight 105 is configured to balance the load of elevator car 103 and to facilitate simultaneous and opposite movement of elevator car 103 relative to counterweight 105 within elevator shaft 117 and along guide rails 109.

[0027] The rope winding system 107 engages with the machine 111, which in this illustrative embodiment is part of the overhead structure of the elevator system 101, although other arrangements are possible without departing from the scope of this disclosure. The machine 111 is configured to control movement between the elevator car 103 and the counterweight 105. A position encoder 113 may be mounted on the upper pulley of the governor system 119 and may be configured to provide a position signal relating to the position of the elevator car 103 within the elevator shaft 117. In other embodiments, the position encoder 113 may be directly mounted to a moving part of the machine 111, or may be located in other locations and / or configurations known in the art.

[0028] As shown in the illustrative arrangement, elevator controller 115 is located in controller room 121 of elevator shaft 117 and is configured to control the operation of elevator system 101 and, in particular, elevator car 103. In other embodiments, controller 115 may be located in other locations, including but not limited to being fixed to a landing or landing door, or located in a cabinet at a landing. Elevator controller 115 may provide drive signals to machine 111 to control the acceleration, deceleration, leveling, stopping, etc., of elevator car 103. Elevator controller 115 may also be configured to receive position signals from position encoder 113. When moving up or down along guide rails 109 within elevator shaft 117, elevator car 103 may stop at one or more landings 125 under the control of elevator controller 115. Although shown in controller room 121, those skilled in the art will recognize that elevator controller 115 may be located and / or configured in other locations or positions within elevator system 101.

[0029] Machine 111 may include a motor or similar drive mechanism. According to embodiments of this disclosure, machine 111 is configured to include an electrically driven motor. The power supply for the motor can be any power source, including a power grid, which, in conjunction with other components, supplies power to the motor. Although shown and described as having a rope-winding system, elevator systems employing other methods and mechanisms for moving the elevator car within the elevator shaft may utilize embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 1 These are non-restrictive examples presented merely for illustrative and explanatory purposes.

[0030] Figure 2 This is a schematic illustration of an elevator system 201 that can be incorporated into the embodiments disclosed herein. Figure 2 As shown, elevator car 203 is located at floor 225. Elevator car 203 can be called to floor 225 by user 227 (e.g., passenger or mechanic) who wishes to travel to another floor within the building or to perform maintenance on a portion of elevator system 201. The car door lintel 229 of elevator system 201 may include a door opening system or door operator to enable the opening and closing of car door 231 and floor door 233 when elevator car 203 is located at floor 225. Sometimes, such as during maintenance operations, mechanic 227 may need to access the top 235 of the elevator car through ceiling access panel 237.

[0031] In a conventional system, a mechanic 227 may need to bring a ladder and / or other equipment into the elevator car 203 to perform maintenance via the ceiling access panel 237. This requires additional equipment carried by the mechanic. The embodiments provided herein relate to systems for accessing, opening, and operating ceiling access panels and for providing improved access to the top of the elevator car (such as for inspection and / or maintenance operations). According to embodiments of this disclosure, the elevator ceiling access system is described as having a platform and ladder that are retracted at / on the elevator and improves usability, safety, accessibility, and other benefits, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art.

[0032] Now for reference Figure 3 A schematic illustration of an elevator car 300 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The elevator car 300 includes a ceiling frame 302 in which an opening 304 is defined. The opening 304 is selectively openable (e.g., as shown) and closed or sealed via a ceiling access panel 306. The ceiling access panel 306 is hingedly attached to or connected to the ceiling frame 302, and... Figure 3 The elevator car 300 is shown in the open position. The elevator car 300 includes a ceiling panel access system 301, which includes a platform assembly 308 that can be used by a technician 310 to access the opening 304 to perform inspection, maintenance, and other operations. The platform assembly 308 includes a platform 312, a ladder 314, and a platform support 316 configured to support the platform 312 at one end, as shown in the figure.

[0033] According to embodiments of this disclosure, platform assembly 308 is attached to ceiling access panel 306, such that platform assembly 308 is stored and accommodated at / on elevator car 300, thereby eliminating the need to bring additional ladders, etc., to the site and into elevator car 300 when ceiling access is required. Depending on its specific implementation, ladder 314 may be hingedly or pivotally attached to platform 312, or may be removably attached to platform 312. Platform 312 is configured to pivot / rotate and slide / translate relative to ceiling access panel 306 while attached to its end. Platform support 316 is pivotally attached to a corresponding mounting rail 318, which movably supports or is attached to ceiling access panel 306. Ceiling access panel 306 is supported on ceiling frame 302 at one end or side and by one or more biasing elements 320 (e.g., gas springs, pistons, telescopic supports, etc.). Mounting rail 318 is movably attached at a first end to a first rail support 322 and at a second end to a second rail support 324. The first rail support 322 is attached to at least one of the ceiling frame 302 and the ceiling access panel 306, and the second rail support 324 is attached to the ceiling access panel 306.

[0034] Platform assembly 308 is configured to allow adjustment of the position of platform 312 within elevator car 300. For example, platform assembly 308 is configured to allow movement or adjustment of the position of platform 312 in the car width (CW) direction and car depth (CD) direction. For example, mounting rail 318 is configured to travel along first rail support 322 and / or second rail support 324 in the car width (CW) direction. Mounting rail 318 can be secured to first rail support 322 and second rail support 324 by locking elements as described herein (e.g., locking pins, threaded knobs, etc.). Thus, by sliding mounting rail 318 along rail supports 322, 324 in the CW direction, platform 312 can be adjusted from one side to the other within elevator car 300. When platform 312 is moved to the desired position, mounting rail 318 can be secured to at least the second rail support 324. The platform 312 can also be adjusted in the car depth (CD) direction by sliding it along the platform support 316. The platform 312 can be positioned and then fixed in place to the platform support 316 by a corresponding locking element (e.g., locking pin, threaded knob, etc.).

[0035] As used herein, the term car depth direction (CD direction) is the direction from the elevator car door toward the rear of the elevator car, and the car width direction (CW direction) is perpendicular to the CD direction. It will be appreciated that other directional terms may be used without changing the scope of this disclosure. For example, the CD direction may be referred to as the first adjustment direction or first adjustment direction, and the CW direction may be referred to as the second adjustment direction or second adjustment direction. It will also be appreciated that the CD direction is not limited to being the first direction, as the CW direction may be referred to as the first direction. However, it will be appreciated that these two directions are perpendicular to each other.

[0036] Now for reference Figures 4A to 4D This illustration shows a schematic diagram of the operation of an elevator ceiling access system 400 for an elevator system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The elevator ceiling access system 400 may be installed on or within an elevator car, for example, as... Figure 3 As shown in the diagram. The elevator ceiling access system 400 includes a ceiling frame 402 that defines an opening 404. Figure 4B The opening is selectively covered or closed by the ceiling panel 406. The platform component 408 is removably attached to or mounted to the ceiling panel 406. Figure 4A The illustration shows the ceiling panel 406 and platform assembly 408 in a closed or retracted state, and Figure 4B The illustration shows a ceiling panel 406 and a platform assembly 408 in the open state, wherein the platform assembly 408 is still retracted or fixed to the ceiling panel 406. Figures 4C to 4D The diagram illustrates the steps for deploying platform component 408, and above... Figure 3 The diagram shows and illustrates the fully deployed platform components.

[0037] refer to Figure 4A In the retracted state, the ceiling panel 406 is closed and secured to the locked position relative to the ceiling frame 402. As those skilled in the art will appreciate, locking the ceiling panel 406 to the ceiling frame 402 can be achieved using known conventional means such as fasteners, locating pins, locking elements (e.g., triangular keys), etc. The ceiling panel 406 has a first end 410 and a second end 412 (see...). Figure 4BA first end 410 of the ceiling panel 406 is hingedly or pivotally attached to the ceiling frame 402 via one or more hinge elements 414. A second end 412 of the ceiling panel 406 is configured to be selectively attached to and releasable from a portion of the ceiling frame 402 to allow the ceiling panel 406 to open and expose an opening 404. For example, the second end 412 of the ceiling panel 406 may include a locking element 416 that can be actuated to unlock and release the attachment between the ceiling panel 406 and the ceiling frame 402. In the opening 404 (see...) Figure 4B When exposed or opened, a user (e.g., a mechanic) can access the top of the elevator car and gain access to the outside of the elevator car through the top (e.g., components inside the elevator shaft or on the top of the elevator car).

[0038] The ceiling panel 406 may be supported by one or more biasing elements 418 (such as pistons, springs, etc.). The biasing elements 418 may be configured to assist in opening and closing the ceiling panel 406, such as facilitating the movement of the ceiling panel 406 from a closed state. Figure 4A Reduce to the open state ( Figure 4B ), and / or used to help the ceiling panel close from the open state to the closed state.

[0039] Platform assembly 408 is movably attached to ceiling panel 406 on one or more mounting rails 420. Mounting rails 420 are configured to provide support and hinged rotation of ceiling panel 406 relative to ceiling frame 402, while also supporting platform assembly 408 thereon. Mounting rails 420 may be fixedly attached to ceiling panel 406, such as by fasteners, welding, etc. In other embodiments, mounting rails 420 may be integrally formed with ceiling panel 406. As described herein, platform assembly 408 may be fixedly or removably attached to ceiling panel 406 by one or more fastening elements.

[0040] like Figures 4A to 4B As shown, the ceiling panel 406 can be opened to expose the opening 404. With the ceiling panel 406 open, the platform assembly 408 is exposed and accessible for use. Figures 4C to 4D The illustration shows additional steps for deploying, accessing, and using platform component 408. Platform component 408 includes a platform 422 and a ladder 424. When retracted, the ladder 424 is fixed to the platform 422, which is fixed as a complete component to the ceiling panel 406. Figure 4CAs shown, platform assembly 408 can be folded downward from ceiling panel 406. In this orientation, platform assembly 408 is attached to and supported by mounting rail 420 on one side of platform 422. That is, platform 422 is hinged to ceiling panel 406 at one end or side of ceiling panel 406. When platform assembly 408 is in the retracted position ( Figure 4B Fold down to partial deployment location ( Figure 4C When the platform component 408 is supported by the connection between the platform 422 and the mounting rail 420, the platform component 408 is supported by the connection between the platform 422 and the mounting rail 420.

[0041] Once deployed in some deployment locations ( Figure 4C The user can then deploy ladder 424. For example, the user can unlock or disconnect ladder 424, decoupling it from platform 422. Ladder 424 can then be deployed or otherwise arranged, such as... Figure 4D As shown in the diagram, ladder 424 can be configured to be fixed to the bottom side of platform 422 and can be hingedly or pivotally attached to platform 422. Ladder 424 can be configured to provide stability and support to platform 422, while also providing means for climbing from the floor of the elevator car onto platform 422. Ladder 424 can be adjustable in length / height. For example, ladder 424 can be a telescopic or folding ladder, which can be folded up and deployed to various lengths / heights for use.

[0042] Platform 422 is movable relative to ceiling panel 406. Platform 422 is movable relative to ceiling panel 406 along one or more platform rails 426. For example, platform 422 is slidable relative to ceiling panel 406 along platform rails 426 in the car depth (CD) direction. Therefore, the distance of platform 422 relative to ceiling panel 406 can be adjusted along platform rails 426 in the car depth (CD) direction. A second direction of movement or adjustment of platform 422 is provided along sliding rails 428. For example, mounting rails 420 can be slidably mounted along sliding rails 428 using one or more bushings, sliders, nested rails, wheels, rollers, etc. Therefore, the position of platform 422 within the elevator car can be adjusted along platform rails 426 in the car depth (CD) direction and along sliding rails 428 in the car width (CW) direction.

[0043] In deployment status ( Figure 4D In this system, the user can adjust the position of platform 422 to the desired location and thus enter different areas or zones of opening 404. Platform 422 is structurally supported by platform rails 426 and deployed ladders 424. Therefore, the user can stand on platform 422 to perform inspections, maintenance, etc.

[0044] Now for reference Figures 5A to 5BThe illustration shows a portion of an elevator ceiling access system 500 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 5A This is an enlarged detailed view of a type of connection used to movably support platform assembly 502 to ceiling panel 504 and / or ceiling frame 506. Platform assembly 502 may include a platform and ladder pivotally mounted to ceiling panel 504 and / or ceiling frame 506. Platform assembly 502 is mounted along one or more mounting rails 508. Mounting rail 508 is movably attached to sliding rail 510 at one end. At opposite ends of mounting rail 508, mounting rail 508 may selectively be attached to support bracket 512, such as... Figure 5B As shown in the diagram, the mounting rail 508 can be selectively and removably attached to the support bracket 512 via a locking pin 514. The locking pin 514 can be a locating pin, a threaded element (e.g., a screw, bolt, threaded knob, etc.), a biasing element, etc., which can be selectively actuated or selectively installed to secure the mounting rail 508 to the support bracket 512.

[0045] With the locking pins(s)514 removed or disengaged from the support brackets 512, the mounting rail 508 is movable along the sliding rail 510. When the platform assembly 502 is in the desired position, the user can then engage, mount, connect, or otherwise secure the mounting rail 508 to the sliding rail 510 using the locking pins(s). The mounting rail 508 is slidably attached to the sliding rail 510 at corresponding bushings 516. The bushings 516 are arranged to slide along the sliding rail 510. Although shown as a bushing configuration, it will be appreciated that the mounting rails of the system described herein can be moved in the car width (CW) direction by other mechanisms, including but not limited to wheels, bearings, rail assemblies, etc. The sliding rail 510 is fixedly mounted to the ceiling frame 506 by one or more sliding rail support brackets 518. Therefore, the user can adjust the position of the platform of the platform assembly 502 in the car width (CW) direction. The platform can be secured in position by means of locking pins 514 which engage with support bracket 512.

[0046] refer to Figure 6 The illustration shows a portion of an elevator ceiling access system 600 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 6This is an enlarged detailed view of platform 602 of platform assembly 604, which is adjustable in the car depth (CD) direction. Platform 602 is also adjustable in the car width (CW) direction, as shown and described above. As shown, platform assembly 604 includes platform 602, which is movably supported on platform rail 606, allowing platform 602 to move along platform rail 606 in the car depth (CD) direction. Platform 602 may be configured with sliding assembly 608. Sliding assembly 608 may be configured with one or more positioning parts, pins, locking elements, etc., which allow platform 602 to be selectively and removably fixed to platform rail 606. Furthermore... Figure 6 As shown, platform assembly 604 includes a ladder 610 deployable from platform 602. Platform assembly 604 is supported on ceiling panel 612 by one or more mounting rails 614. Platform 602 is adjustable along support bracket 616 in the car width (CW) direction. When deployed, and according to various embodiments of this disclosure, platform 602 may be structurally supported by ladder 610, platform rails 606, mounting rails 614, ceiling panel 612, and / or combinations thereof.

[0047] refer to Figure 7 The illustration shows a portion of an elevator ceiling access system 700 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 7 This is an enlarged detailed view of the platform assembly 702, which is removably attached to the ceiling panel 704 of the elevator car. Figure 7 In the middle, the ceiling panel 704 is in a closed state relative to the ceiling frame 706 (e.g., Figure 4A Platform assembly 702 is secured in place. Platform assembly 702 includes platform 708 and ladder 710. Platform 708 is partially supported to one or more mounting rails 714 by pivoting connections(s) 712. In the retracted or stored state, ladder 710 is securely secured to platform 708 by at least one ladder lock 716. Platform 708 is secured in place to mounting rail 714 by corresponding platform locks 718. Locks 716, 718 may be tabs, rotating tabs, positioning locks, positioning pins, snap-fit ​​connections, threaded connections, fasteners, magnetic connections, etc., and can be manipulated, operated, or actuated to allow selective release of platform 708 from mounting rail 714 and selective release of ladder 710.

[0048] Now for reference Figure 8 A schematic illustration of an elevator ceiling access system 800 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The elevator ceiling access system 800 may be similar to the system shown and described above, and therefore similar features need not be described again. Figure 8As shown, the elevator ceiling access system 800 includes a ceiling frame 802 that is part of the elevator car. A ceiling panel 804 is configured to open and close relative to the ceiling frame 802 and is pivotally or rotatably mounted to the ceiling frame 802. A platform assembly 806 is disposed on and movably attached to the ceiling panel 804. Figure 8 As shown, platform assembly 806 includes platform 808 and ladder 810. In this illustrative embodiment, platform assembly 806 includes a safety railing system 812. Safety railing system 812 may be a set of foldable or removable railings arranged around the perimeter of platform 808. Safety railing system 812 can be used to provide safety to users of platform assembly 806. Safety railing system 812 may be configured to be fixedly attached to platform 808 and provide stops or edge rails to prevent users from falling or slipping off platform 808. In some embodiments, the railings of safety railing system 812 may be telescopic bars; in other configurations, the bars / railings of safety railing system 812 may be foldable or collapsible to be stowed on / retracted onto platform 808, similar to stowing ladder 810 onto platform 808, such as... Figure 7 As shown in the image.

[0049] Figure 8 The diagram also illustrates the position of platform 808 in use. Platform 808 is deployed from ceiling panel 804 and folds downward. Platform 808 is supported at one end by platform rail 814 and mounting rail 816. Platform rail 814 supports platform 808 at one end or side and allows adjustment of the position of platform 808 in the car depth (CD) direction. At the end or side opposite platform rail 814, platform 808 is supported by ladder 810, which is shown in the deployed state. As described above, platform 808 is also adjustable in the car width (CW) direction, wherein mounting rail 816 can move along sliding rail 818 and selectively engage with support bracket 820.

[0050] Now for reference Figure 9 A schematic illustration of an elevator car 900 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The elevator car 900 includes a ceiling frame 902 defining an opening therein. The opening is selectively openable (e.g., as shown) and closed or sealed by a ceiling panel 904. The ceiling panel 904 is hingedly attached to or connected to the ceiling frame 902, and... Figure 9 The elevator car 900 is shown in the open position. The elevator car 900 includes a platform assembly 906, which can be used by technicians 908 to access the opening for inspection, maintenance, and other operations. The platform assembly 906 includes a platform 910 and a ladder 912. Figure 9In the illustration, platform assembly 906 has been deployed from ceiling panel 904, and platform 910 extends from mounting rail 914 attached to or as part of ceiling panel 904. Platform assembly 906 is adjustable and can be fixed in various positions (CW and CD directions) within the elevator car.

[0051] like Figure 9 As shown, platform 910 moves a distance away from ceiling panel 904 in the CD direction. Furthermore, its position in the CW direction is adjustable along sliding rail 916 to allow technician 908 to position platform 910 at a desired location within elevator car 900. Once technician 908 has positioned platform 910 at the desired location, platform 910 can be secured in place by attaching mounting rail 914 to support bracket 918.

[0052] Will realize, by Figure 9 The opening defined by the ceiling frame 902 is relatively larger than the illustrative configuration shown above. Because the platform 910 can be moved by the mechanic 908 (e.g., in the CD and CW directions), the elevator ceiling access system described herein can be used in elevator cars of any size / dimension while allowing the mechanic 908 access to any side of the opening defined by the ceiling frame 902.

[0053] Now for reference Figure 10 A schematic illustration of an elevator car 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The elevator car 1000 includes a ceiling frame 1002 defining an opening therein. The opening is selectively openable (e.g., as shown) and closed or sealed by a ceiling panel 1004. The ceiling panel 1004 is hingedly attached to or connected to the ceiling frame 1002, and... Figure 10 The elevator car 1000 is shown in the open position. The elevator car 1000 includes a platform assembly 1006, which can be used by technicians 1008 to access the opening for inspection, maintenance, and other operations. The platform assembly 1006 includes a platform 1010 and a ladder 1012. Figure 10 In the illustration, platform component 1006 has moved along sliding rail 1014 and support bracket 1016 in the car width (CW) direction.

[0054] Similar to Figure 9 The structure is composed of Figure 10The opening defined by the ceiling frame 1002 is relatively larger than the illustrative configuration shown above. In this configuration, the elevator car 1000 is an overhead traction configuration with a structural frame element 1020 spanning the opening defined by the ceiling frame 1002. Even when the opening is thus obstructed by the structural frame element 1020, access to any side of the opening defined by the ceiling frame 1002 and / or around the structural frame element 1020 is possible because the platform assembly 1006 can be moved around by the mechanic 1008.

[0055] Advantageously, embodiments of this disclosure relate to elevator ceiling access systems that offer benefits superior to current solutions. For example, according to some embodiments, the need for a mechanic to bring a ladder to the elevator is eliminated because the ladder and platform system of this disclosure can be stored on / at the elevator car awaiting maintenance. Furthermore, embodiments of this disclosure advantageously reduce or eliminate wear or damage to the elevator car that may result from additional tools and equipment being brought into the elevator car. Additionally, the platform assembly described herein can be used by any user / mechanic because the platform system is located in the elevator car and can be sized and moved / adjusted to accommodate access to the ceiling, the top of the car, etc. Moreover, embodiments of this disclosure do not require any special or specific tools or equipment for operation. For example, the opening and closing of the ceiling panel can be assisted by biasing elements (e.g., pistons, springs, etc.). Furthermore, the elevator ceiling access system described herein advantageously can be used in both top-traction and bottom-traction rope-wound elevator constructions.

[0056] As used herein, in the context of the specification (especially in the context of the appended claims), the use of the terms “a,” “an,” “the,” and similar designations should be interpreted to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise stated herein or particularly contradictory to the context. The modifier “about” used in conjunction with quantity includes the stated value and has the meaning determined by the context (e.g., it includes the degree of error associated with a measurement of a particular quantity).

[0057] Although this disclosure has been described in detail with reference to only a limited number of embodiments, it should be readily understood that this disclosure is not limited to these disclosed embodiments. Rather, modifications may be made to this disclosure to incorporate any number of variations, alterations, substitutions, combinations, sub-combinations, or equivalent arrangements not previously described but commensurate with the spirit and scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, while various embodiments of this disclosure have been described, it should be understood that aspects of this disclosure may include only some of the described embodiments. Therefore, this disclosure should not be considered as limited to the foregoing description, but only to the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. An elevator ceiling access system, comprising: The ceiling panel of the elevator car; as well as A platform component, movably attached to the ceiling panel, the platform component including a platform and a ladder deployable from the platform. The platform component can be deployed from a retracted state to a deployed state. In the deployed state, the position of the platform can be adjusted within the elevator car, and the platform is supported on one side by the ladder and on the opposite side by the ceiling panel.

2. The elevator ceiling access system according to claim 1 further includes a ceiling frame, wherein, The ceiling panel is pivotally mounted to the ceiling frame.

3. The elevator ceiling access system of claim 2 further includes a locking element configured to releasably secure the ceiling panel to the ceiling frame.

4. The elevator ceiling access system of claim 2, further comprising at least one biasing element configured to support the ceiling panel and connect it to the ceiling frame.

5. The elevator ceiling access system according to claim 2, wherein, The ceiling panel is hinged or pivotally attached to the ceiling frame via one or more hinge elements.

6. The elevator ceiling access system of claim 1, further comprising at least one mounting rail, said at least one mounting rail being configured as part of or attached to the ceiling panel, wherein, The platform component is supported on the at least one mounting rail in both the collapsed state and the deployed state.

7. The elevator ceiling access system according to claim 6, wherein, The platform component includes at least one platform rail, which is pivotally connected to the at least one mounting rail.

8. The elevator ceiling access system according to claim 6, wherein, The at least one mounting rail is pivotally connected to the platform at one end, and the opposite ends of the at least one mounting rail are slidably mounted on a sliding rail.

9. The elevator ceiling access system according to claim 8 further includes a support bracket, the support bracket being disposed on the ceiling panel, wherein, The at least one mounting rail is configured to be selectively attached to the support bracket.

10. The elevator ceiling access system according to claim 1, wherein, The platform components also include a safety railing system configured to be attached to the platform.

11. The elevator ceiling access system according to claim 10, wherein, The safety barrier system includes a foldable element configured to be stored on the platform assembly when the platform assembly is in the retracted state.

12. The elevator ceiling access system according to claim 1, wherein, The ladder is hinged to the platform.

13. The elevator ceiling access system according to claim 1, wherein, The platform can be adjusted along one or more platform rails in a first direction and along a sliding rail in a second direction, wherein the first direction and the second direction are perpendicular to each other.

14. The elevator ceiling access system according to claim 1, wherein, The platform components are configured to unfold from the retracted state to the deployed state from the ceiling panel.

15. The elevator ceiling access system according to claim 1, wherein, The ladder is releasably fixed to the platform via a ladder lock.

16. The elevator ceiling access system according to claim 1, wherein, The platform component is releasably fixed to the ceiling panel via at least one platform lock.

17. The elevator ceiling access system according to claim 1, wherein, The ladder is a foldable ladder.

18. The elevator ceiling access system according to claim 1, wherein, The ladder in question is a telescopic ladder.

19. An elevator system, comprising: An elevator car having a floor, ceiling, and sidewalls defining the interior of the elevator car; A ceiling frame that defines an opening in the ceiling of the elevator car; A ceiling panel arranged to cover the opening and configured to be opened to expose the opening; as well as A platform assembly movably attached to the ceiling panel, the platform assembly including a platform and a ladder deployable from the platform, wherein the platform assembly is deployable from a retracted state to a deployed state, wherein in the deployed state, the position of the platform is adjustable within the elevator car, and the platform is supported on one side by the ladder and on the opposite side by the ceiling panel.

20. The elevator system according to claim 19, wherein, The elevator car is an overhead traction elevator car.

21. The elevator system according to claim 19, wherein, When in the deployed state, the platform can be adjusted in both the width and depth directions of the car while being supported on one or more mounting rails.

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