Monitoring device for an elevator rope and elevator

Abstract

The present invention relates to a monitoring device (1) for elevator ropes (2), comprising: a row of ropes (2) having multiple ropes (2) arranged side by side; one or more light emitters (30a, 30b) arranged to emit one or more light beams, the one or more light beams forming a plurality of spaced-apart beam portions (31a, 31b) oriented to travel along the thickness direction of the row of ropes (2), wherein for each individual rope (2) there are independent pairs (p1-p7) of beam portions (31a, 31b), each rope being positioned between one pair of the pairs (p1-p7) of beam portions (31a, 31b) in the width direction of the row; a plurality of optical sensors (32a, 32b) for sensing the light from the one or more light emitters (30a, 30b); and a monitoring system (100) arranged to monitor sensor signals of the plurality of optical sensors (32a, 32b). The present invention also relates to an elevator (200) including an elevator car (60) and the monitoring device (1) for elevator ropes (2).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the monitoring of elevator ropes, particularly elevators used for transporting passengers and / or goods. Background Technology

[0002] Traditional elevators have multiple ropes connected to the elevator car. The ropes typically loop around traction sheaves and guide sheaves, which alter the rope's path. Traction and guide sheaves usually have shapes designed to hold the rope in a specific position along the axial direction of the sheave in question. In elevators with conventional steel ropes, the rope travels within grooves in the rotatable traction sheave. Some elevators also have ropes guided by the arched shape of the sheave's rim. This is well-suited for ribbon ropes. The arched shape is a gentler way to guide the rope, which may be desirable, for example, when the rope has a sensitive surface and / or sensitive internal structure.

[0003] In schemes using an arch shape (hereinafter also referred to as a crown shape) for guidance, the intended position of the rope is in the middle of the arched area, but slight lateral movement of the rope is generally permitted. The rope may deviate too far from the apex of the crown shape. Ropes running off their intended trajectory can lead to various hazardous problems, such as damage to the rope itself or other components of the elevator. Therefore, it is necessary to prevent the rope from running off its intended trajectory, or to prevent this from happening in some other way.

[0004] Safety solutions have been proposed to stop elevator operation when a rope deviates from its intended position and crosses a limit position. For example, document EP2947034A1 discloses a solution that uses a mechanical sensing component to sense the displacement of the rope beyond the limit position. A non-contact monitoring solution is also disclosed, which uses a sensor to sense electromagnetic radiation reflected from the rope as it deviates beyond the limit position. In response to the rope displacement exceeding the limit position, the elevator drive mechanism is triggered to stop.

[0005] It has been concluded that various factors can cause displacement of the rope guided by the sheave. Some displacements are normal. For example, a change in the elevator's drive direction often results in minor displacements that do not require a response. Damage, wear, or deterioration of the rope's internal or surface structure can also cause displacement, which may require a response before the problem worsens. Internal damage, such as delamination of the composite structure in a composite rope, can, for example, cause changes in the internal stress distribution of the rope, thereby altering the rope's equilibrium position in the crown shape. It has been concluded that, as a preventative measure against such problems, it is beneficial to pay early attention to individual ropes that have begun to deviate from their intended trajectory, even if their position has not yet reached dangerous limits. This attention may include inspecting, maintaining, or even replacing the individual rope. This attention can be scheduled in advance so that the elevator does not need to stop operating during peak hours. If it appears that rope replacement is necessary, the rope can be transported to the site in advance so that it is readily available when needed, thereby reducing elevator downtime.

[0006] One drawback of the known solutions is their lack of precision and ability to detect problems related to minute structural changes within the rope early on.

[0007] One drawback of known solutions is that even if it is possible to safely and reliably monitor the displacement of the rope that is dangerously far from the expected trajectory, this would cause the elevator operation to stop abruptly without any early warning, and the elevator may be out of service for a period of time while the problem behind the excessive displacement of the rope is being addressed.

[0008] One drawback of known solutions is that they cannot easily and promptly alert the user if a single rope has a displacement problem. Furthermore, they neither provide nor indicate which rope has the problem. They also cannot provide specific locations on the rope where the structural cause of the displacement might be found.

[0009] One drawback of known solutions is that accurate monitoring of rope displacement in order to detect and respond to minor displacement problems early before they develop into dangerous situations requires contact with the rope and / or the use of complex solutions. Summary of the Invention

[0010] The purpose of this invention is to introduce an improved monitoring device and elevator.

[0011] The purpose is to introduce a new solution that can alleviate one or more of the aforementioned problems of the prior art and / or the disadvantages discussed or implied elsewhere in the specification.

[0012] The aim is particularly to provide a solution that can monitor rope position with high accuracy, reliability and simplicity.

[0013] The objective is, in particular, to provide a solution that provides early warning of potential developments that could lead to unplanned stops and prolonged downtime of elevator systems.

[0014] The objective is particularly to provide a solution that can reduce the avoidable downtime of solutions using the crown shape of wheels to guide ropes.

[0015] The aim is particularly to provide a solution that can stop the elevator when needed, while avoiding unnecessary stops.

[0016] The aim is particularly to provide a simple and gentle rope solution.

[0017] A novel monitoring device for elevator ropes is proposed, comprising: a row of ropes, the row comprising multiple ropes arranged side by side; one or more light emitters arranged to emit one or more light beams forming multiple spaced-apart beam portions oriented to travel along the thickness direction of the rope row, wherein for each individual rope, there are independent pairs of the light beam portions, each rope being positioned between a pair of beam portions in the width direction of the row; a plurality of light sensors for sensing the light from the one or more light emitters; and a monitoring system arranged to monitor the sensor signals of the plurality of light sensors.

[0018] This solution can facilitate the achievement of one or more of the aforementioned objectives.

[0019] Preferred further details of the device are described below, which can be incorporated into the device individually or in any combination.

[0020] In a preferred embodiment, the plurality of light sensors include a light sensor for sensing the light in each of the light beam portions.

[0021] In a preferred embodiment, the plurality of light sensors include a light sensor for sensing light from each of the beam segments, the beam segments being guided toward the light sensor, wherein each of the ropes is arranged to block light from the beam segment from reaching the light sensor as each rope moves away from its position between a pair of beam segments in the width direction of the row, causing the rope to traverse the path of the beam segment. Thus, this light barrier can be formed by each beam segment, and the traversal of the beam segment can be sensed and reacted to. This solution is reliable and accurate because the edges of the beam segments can be precisely located, providing accurate and reliable limit positions for the ropes. The presence of a light sensor for each of the beam segments allows the presence of each beam segment to be sensed individually, which helps to identify the source of the problem when a beam segment is blocked.

[0022] In a preferred embodiment, the light is laser light or infrared light.

[0023] In a preferred embodiment, each of the light beam portions forms a light barrier.

[0024] In a preferred embodiment, the light emitter and the light sensor are located on opposite sides of the row in the thickness direction of the row.

[0025] In a preferred embodiment, the monitoring system is configured as follows:

[0026] A predetermined change in the sensor signal of any one of the optical sensors is detected, the predetermined change indicating that a portion of the light beam entering the optical sensor is blocked, the predetermined change preferably being an interruption of the signal, or an interruption of the signal for at least a predetermined time period; and / or

[0027] One or more actions are performed in response to the detection of a predetermined change in the sensor signal of any optical sensor, the one or more actions preferably including generating an alarm signal.

[0028] In a preferred embodiment, the monitoring system is configured as follows:

[0029] A light sensor that identifies and / or indicates the detection of a predetermined change in a sensor signal; and / or

[0030] Identify and / or indicate the rope associated with the optical sensor that detects a predetermined change in the sensor signal (each optical sensor is associated with one of the ropes); and / or

[0031] Identify and / or indicate the direction in which the rope has shifted.

[0032] In a preferred embodiment, the monitoring system is configured to identify and / or indicate the direction of rope displacement, which is achieved by inferring from sensor signals from an optical sensor associated with the rope.

[0033] In a preferred embodiment, the monitoring system is configured to: record the position of the elevator car at the moment when a predetermined change occurs in the sensor signal of any of the optical sensors, and / or, for example, determine by calculation which part of the rope is located at the position point of the optical sensor when a predetermined change occurs in its sensor signal.

[0034] In a preferred embodiment, there is only one cord between each pair of beam portions.

[0035] In a preferred embodiment, the monitoring system is configured to collect sensor signal data based on the sensor signals of the plurality of optical sensors and store it in, for example, a memory.

[0036] In a preferred embodiment, the monitoring system is configured to analyze sensor signal data.

[0037] In a preferred embodiment, each beam portion preferably continuously illuminates the light sensor provided thereto. Thus, such a light barrier can be effectively formed by the beam portions, which can be used to detect whether the rope has moved into a path traversing the beam portion.

[0038] In a preferred embodiment, the beam portions of each pair of beam portions are spaced apart by a distance greater than the width of the rope located between the pair of beam portions.

[0039] In a preferred embodiment, each pair of first and second beam portions has side edges extending on opposite sides of the rope (on the first and second sides of the rope), spaced apart from the rope by a distance, the side edges defining the distance between the pair of beam portions. This solution is reliable and precise because the edges of the beam portions can be precisely positioned, thereby providing accurate and reliable limit positions for the rope.

[0040] In a preferred embodiment, each pair of beam portions includes a first beam portion and a second beam portion. The first beam portion is arranged to shine on a first light sensor spaced a distance from the rope on a first side of the rope, and the second beam portion is arranged to shine on a second light sensor spaced a distance from the rope on a second side of the rope.

[0041] In a preferred embodiment, in the monitoring system, a single cable is associated with each optical sensor.

[0042] In a preferred embodiment, two beam portions belonging to adjacent pairs of beam portions are provided between adjacent ropes in the width direction of the row.

[0043] In a preferred embodiment, the monitoring device includes a first device for sensing the displacement of the rope, the first device including the one or more light emitters and the plurality of light sensors, and a second device for sensing the displacement of the rope. The monitoring system is configured to trigger one or more actions based on the sensing of the second device to stop and / or prevent the movement of the elevator car.

[0044] In a preferred embodiment, the device (particularly the second device described above) includes sensing members for sensing the displacement of ropes in the width direction of the row, with each rope positioned between a pair of sensing members in the width direction of the row.

[0045] In a preferred embodiment, each rope is located between a pair of beam portions and a pair of sensing elements, the distance between the pair of sensing elements (in the width direction of the row) being greater than the distance between the pair of beam portions (in the width direction of the row).

[0046] In a preferred embodiment, each pair of sensing elements includes a first sensing element spaced a distance from the rope on a first side and a second sensing element spaced a distance from the rope on a second side. The rope is closer to the beam portion on both sides (in the width direction) than the sensing elements.

[0047] In a preferred embodiment, each sensing element can be displaced by a rope in the width direction to contact the sensing element, and the displacement of each sensing element is arranged to trigger one or more actions to stop and / or prevent movement of the elevator car. The actions preferably include stopping and / or preventing rotation of the elevator's traction sheave, around which the rope passes.

[0048] In a preferred embodiment, each of the sensing elements is displaceable at least along the longitudinal direction of the rope, such that when the rope moves and is displaced (in the width direction of the row) along its longitudinal direction during elevator use to contact the sensing element, the rope is arranged to engage (e.g., frictionally engage) the sensing element and push the sensing element to displace it, preferably by, for example, pivoting.

[0049] In a preferred embodiment, each of the sensing elements is pivotally and displaceably mounted about an axis (preferably parallel to the width direction of the row), and the pivot displacement of each sensing element is arranged to trigger one or more actions to stop and / or prevent the movement of the elevator car.

[0050] In a preferred embodiment, the sensing component is repositioned via a common repositionable carrier.

[0051] In a preferred embodiment, the monitoring device includes at least one electrical sensor arranged to sense the position of the movable carrier, and the displacement of the carrier (particularly its pivoting) is arranged to trigger the one or more actions for stopping and / or preventing movement of the elevator car.

[0052] In a preferred embodiment, the monitoring system includes one or more local units and / or one or more remote units for performing the tasks of the monitoring system. The one or more local units and / or one or more remote units preferably include one or more computers or computer systems, particularly computers or computer systems for performing the tasks of the monitoring system.

[0053] In a preferred embodiment utilizing a mirror, the device includes a semi-transparent mirror element located in the path of at least one beam portion (belonging to the plurality of beam portions), a portion of which is guided through the mirror element toward a photosensor, and another portion of which is arranged to be reflected away from the path toward the photosensor, and arranged to form another beam portion (belonging to the plurality of beam portions) guided toward another photosensor. The monitoring device may include a semi-transparent mirror element also in the path of the other portion. Then, preferably, a portion of the other beam portion is guided through the mirror element toward the other photosensor, and the other portion of which is arranged to be reflected away from the path toward the photosensor, and arranged to form another beam portion of the beam portion guided toward the other photosensor.

[0054] A new elevator is also proposed, comprising an elevator car and a monitoring device for the elevator ropes as described in any of the preceding locations or any claim of this application.

[0055] This solution can facilitate the achievement of one or more of the aforementioned objectives.

[0056] The following describes preferred further details of the elevator, which can be combined with the elevator individually or in any combination.

[0057] In a preferred embodiment of the elevator or monitoring device, the rope is a belt.

[0058] In a preferred embodiment of the elevator or monitoring device, each rope includes one or more load-bearing members made of a composite material comprising reinforcing fibers, preferably carbon fibers, embedded in a matrix comprising a polymeric material, such as epoxy resin. Preferably, the load-bearing members are embedded in a coating. The load-bearing members are then preferably adjacent to each other in the width direction of the rope and isolated from each other by the coating. The coating is preferably made of a polymeric material, such as rubber, polyurethane, or silicone resin.

[0059] In a preferred embodiment of the elevator or monitoring device, the ropes pass around a traction sheave that can be rotated by a motor and / or around at least one rope sheave, in particular, such that the wide side of each rope abuts the crown shape of the traction sheave / rope sheave.

[0060] In a preferred embodiment of the elevator or monitoring device, the elevator includes a motor for rotating a traction wheel and a mechanical brake for braking the rotation of the traction wheel.

[0061] Typically, the elevator car preferably includes an interior in which passengers and / or goods can be transported. The car also preferably includes one or more doors through which the interior can be opened and closed. The doors are preferably automatic doors, thereby providing the elevator solution with comfortable and safe elevator operation. Attached Figure Description

[0062] In the following description, the invention will be illustrated in more detail by way of example and with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0063] Figure 1 A monitoring device for elevator ropes according to a first embodiment is shown.

[0064] Figure 2 Showing the rope crossing Figure 1 The path of the beam monitoring device.

[0065] Figure 3 Show Figure 1 A magnified partial view.

[0066] Figure 4 Preferred details of the monitoring device are shown.

[0067] Figure 5 Show Figure 1 A perspective view of preferred details of an embodiment.

[0068] Figure 6 Show Figure 5 Side view.

[0069] Figure 7 Preferred details of the monitoring device are shown.

[0070] Figure 8 The preferred method for guiding the rope is shown.

[0071] Figure 9 A preferred embodiment of an elevator including a monitoring device is shown.

[0072] Figure 10 The preferred structure of the rope is shown.

[0073] Figure 11 A monitoring device for elevator ropes according to a second embodiment is shown.

[0074] Figure 12 Showing the rope crossing Figure 11 The path of the beam portion monitoring device.

[0075] Figure 13 A monitoring device for elevator ropes according to a third embodiment is shown.

[0076] Figure 14 Showing the rope crossing Figure 13The path of the beam portion monitoring device.

[0077] Figure 15 A monitoring device for elevator ropes according to a fourth embodiment is shown.

[0078] Figure 16 Showing the rope crossing Figure 15 The path of the beam portion monitoring device.

[0079] Figure 17 Another monitoring device is shown in the image. Detailed Implementation

[0080] Figure 1 A monitoring device 1 for an elevator rope 2 according to a first embodiment is shown. The monitoring device 1 includes: a row of ropes 2, viewed along the thickness direction t of the row, the row of ropes including multiple elevator ropes 2 arranged side-by-side; and light emitters 30a and 30b arranged to emit a light beam. The light beam forms multiple spaced-apart beam portions 31a and 31b, the beam portions being oriented to travel along the thickness direction t of the row of ropes 2. Each of the beam portions 31a and 31b specifically forms a light barrier. For each individual rope 2, there are independent pairs of beam portions 31a and 31b, p1-p7. Each rope 2 is positioned in the width direction w of the row between one pair of beam portions of the p1-p7 pair. The beam portions 31a and 31b pass around the rope 2. The device 1 also includes multiple light sensors 32a and 32b for sensing the light from the light emitters 30a and 30b. The device 1 also includes a monitoring system 100, which is arranged to monitor the sensor signals of the plurality of optical sensors 32a, 32b.

[0081] exist Figure 1 In a preferred embodiment, the plurality of light sensors 32a, 32b include light sensors 32a, 32b for each of the beam portions 31a, 31b. Therefore, the light of each beam portion 31a, 31b can be sensed individually.

[0082] exist Figure 1In a preferred embodiment, more specifically, a plurality of light sensors 32a, 32b are included for each of the beam portions 31a, 31b, and the beam portions 31a, 31b are guided toward the light sensors 32a, 32b (when the beam portion in question is not blocked by the rope 2). Here, when the beam portion of interest is not blocked by the rope 2, each beam portion 31a, 31b illuminates the light sensor 32a, 32b assigned to it. When each rope 2 moves in the width direction w of the row away from its position between the pairs of beam portions p1-p7 31a, 31b, such that the rope 2 traverses the path of the beam portion (i.e., the path of either of the two beam portions in question), each rope 2 is arranged to block the light of the beam portion from reaching the light sensor. Thus, such a light barrier can be formed by each beam portion, and the traversal of the light barrier can be sensed individually. This solution is reliable and precise because the edges of the beam portions 31a and 31b can be precisely located, thus providing a precise and reliable limit position for the rope 2. The optical sensors 32a and 32b provided for each of the beam portions 31a and 31b enable the presence of each beam portion 31a and 31b to be sensed individually, which helps to identify the source of the problem when the beam portion is blocked.

[0083] There is only one rope 2 between each pair of p1-p7 beam sections. Therefore, the position of each rope 2 can be monitored individually, allowing for the detection of displacement of each rope 2 in either of two opposite directions along the width w of the row. Each pair of p1-p7 beam sections includes a first beam section 31a and a second beam section 31b. The first beam section 31a is arranged to shine on a first light sensor spaced a distance from the rope 2 on a first side of the rope 2, and the second beam section 31b is arranged to shine on a second light sensor 32b spaced a distance from the rope 2 on a second side of the rope 2.

[0084] Figure 2The following scenario illustrates a situation where rope 2 (third from the left) moves away from its position between a pair of p3 beam portions 31a and 31b in the width direction w of the row, causing the rope to traverse the path of beam portion 31b. This blocks the light from beam portion 31b from reaching the light sensor 32b. In the monitoring system 100, a single rope 2 is associated with each light sensor 32a and 32b (e.g., via a computer program). Thus, the monitoring system 100 can easily identify rope 2 that causes a change in the monitored signal. Consequently, potentially problematic rope 2 can be identified and indicated to the user, allowing the user to pay attention to the rope in question as early as possible, such as for inspection, maintenance, or preparation for replacement of the individual rope. The monitoring system 100 can also preferably identify the direction in which rope 2 has shifted and indicate this direction to the user (e.g., by presenting a directional signal). Therefore, additional information related to displacement can be provided to the user. The monitoring system 100 can be specifically configured to infer, based on sensor signals, which of a pair of light portions 31a or 31b has been blocked, and thereby infer in which direction (left or right in the figure) the rope 2 has shifted from between the pair of light portions 31a or 31b.

[0085] The beam portions in each pair of p1-p7 beam portions are spaced apart by a distance d1, which is greater than the width w1 of the rope 2 positioned between the pairs of beam portions in question.

[0086] The first beam portion 31a and the second beam portion 31b in each pair of p1-p7 have a side edge e that extends on opposite sides of the rope 2 (located on the first and second sides of the rope 2 in the width direction w of the row) and is a distance d2 from the rope 2. The side edge e defines the distance d1 between the pair of beam portions 31a and 31b.

[0087] exist Figure 1 In this embodiment, for each individual rope 2, there are independent pairs of beam portions p1-p7. Therefore, the position of each rope 2 can be monitored individually, allowing displacement of the rope in either of the two opposite directions along the width w of the row to be noticed and responded to. Thus, each rope 2 has its own pair of p1-p7 beam portions, facilitating the identification of which rope 2 has traversed the beam portion's path. This is particularly advantageous for reducing uncertainty about which of two directly adjacent ropes has traversed the path of the beam portion traveling between them. Therefore, early attention can be focused on the individual rope 2 that has caused displacement problems. Figure 1In a preferred embodiment, since there are independent pairs of beam portions 31a and 31b for each individual rope 2, there are two beam portions belonging to adjacent pairs between adjacent ropes 2 in the width direction w of the row, specifically such that there are two second beam portions 31b of the leftmost pair of p1 of the two adjacent ropes 2 and a first beam portion 31a of the rightmost pair of p2 of the two adjacent ropes 2 between the two adjacent ropes 2.

[0088] As described above, the monitoring system 100 is arranged to monitor the sensor signals of the plurality of optical sensors 32a, 32b. Preferably, the monitoring system 100 is specifically configured to detect a predetermined change in the sensor signal of any one of the optical sensors 32a, 32b, which indicates that a portion of the light beam incident on the optical sensor 32a, 32b is blocked. The predetermined change is preferably an interruption of the signal, or an interruption of the signal for at least a predetermined period of time. Preferably, the monitoring system 100 is configured to perform one or more actions in response to the detection of a predetermined change in the sensor signal of any one of the optical sensors 32a, 32b. Thus, a displacement causing the predetermined change can be reacted to in a pre-selected appropriate manner. The one or more actions preferably include generating an alarm signal. The one or more actions may also include sending the alarm signal to a remote monitoring center, or storing the alarm signal in the memory of the monitoring system 100 for presentation to a user when accessing or connecting to the monitoring system 100 via a user interface. Monitoring helps to obtain early warnings of situations that may lead to hazards or unexpected stops and prolonged downtime of the elevator system.

[0089] The monitoring system 100 is preferably, but not necessarily, also configured as follows:

[0090] Optical sensors 32a, 32b that identify and / or indicate the detection of predetermined changes in sensor signals; and / or

[0091] The identification and / or indication of ropes 2 associated with optical sensors 32a, 32b that detect predetermined changes in sensor signals (for this purpose, preferably, each optical sensor 32a, 32b is associated with one rope among the ropes) facilitates the rapid identification of the source of the problem. Thus, early attention can be precisely focused on the problem of a single rope 2 that has begun to deviate from its predetermined path, for example, without needing to focus on all ropes 2.

[0092] The monitoring system 100 is preferably, but not necessarily, also configured to identify and / or indicate the direction of displacement of the rope 2. This identification is preferably achieved by the monitoring system 100 inferring the direction based on sensor signals from the optical sensors 32a, 32b associated with the rope 2. For example, in Figures 1-2In one embodiment, a predetermined change is detected indicating that the second beam portion 31b is blocked from entering the second photosensor 32b, for example... Figure 2 The situation described above can be inferred to mean that rope 2 has already moved in the second direction ( Figure 2 The first beam portion 31b is shifted to the right. Correspondingly, if the first beam portion 31b is blocked when it enters the first light sensor 32a, this would be inferred to mean that the rope 2 has shifted to the first direction (in the right direction). Figure 2 (Shift to the left from the center).

[0093] The monitoring system 100 is preferably, but not necessarily, also configured to: record the position of the elevator car 200 at the moment when a predetermined change occurs in the sensor signal of any optical sensor, and / or, for example, determine by calculation, which part of the rope 2 is located at the position point of the beam portion sensor at the moment the predetermined change occurs in the sensor signal. Therefore, it is easier to locate positions on the rope that may be displaced due to structural reasons.

[0094] When the monitoring device 1 also includes a second device (an optical sensor, which is the first device here) for sensing the displacement of rope 2, early warning provided by monitoring the sensor signal of the optical sensor is particularly advantageous. Based on the sensing of the second device, the monitoring system 100 can trigger one or more actions to stop and / or prevent the movement of the elevator car. Therefore, the aforementioned one or more actions, performed in response to the detection of a predetermined change in the sensor signal of any of the optical sensors 32a, 32b, can be performed without performing actions to stop and / or prevent the movement of the elevator car. Thus, elevator operation can continue even though it is noted that a single rope has begun to deviate from its expected trajectory. Therefore, early attention (e.g., inspection, maintenance, or preparation for replacement of the single rope) can be directed to the single rope 2 without unplanned shutdown. If the position of rope 2 reaches a dangerous limit, another device ensures safety. The second device can be of virtually any type, but since it already has a sensor suitable for relatively efficient information collection, the second device can prioritize safety and reliability without needing to collect information. Therefore, the second device can be one or more of the following: simple, robust, mechanical in structure, without the ability to distinguish which rope has reached a dangerous position.

[0095] To facilitate the transmission of sensor signals, the monitoring system 100 is preferably connected to each of the plurality of optical sensors 32a, 32b. Figure 4 One possible implementation is illustrated schematically.

[0096] exist Figure 1In one embodiment, the monitoring device 1 includes a second device (an optical sensor, which is the first device here) for sensing the displacement of the rope 2. Based on the sensing by the second device, the monitoring system can trigger one or more actions to stop and / or prevent the movement of the elevator car. Figure 1 In one embodiment, the monitoring device 1, particularly the second device for sensing the displacement of the rope 2, includes sensing members 41 for sensing the displacement of the rope 2 in the width direction of the row, with each rope 2 positioned between pairs of sensing members 41 (p1'-p7') in the width direction of the row. There is only one rope 2 between each pair of sensing members 41.

[0097] exist Figure 1 In this embodiment, each rope 2 is located between a pair of p1-p7 beam portions 31a, 31b and between a pair of p1'-p7' sensing members 41, wherein the distance d3 between the pairs of p1'-p7' sensing members (in the width direction of the row) is greater than the distance d1 between the pairs of p1-p7 beam portions (in the width direction of the row). This helps the rope 2 to reach one of the beam portions 31a, 31b before reaching the sensing member 41 in the pair of sensing members 41 when it begins to shift in the width direction w.

[0098] Each pair of p1'-p7' sensing elements 41 includes a first sensing element 41a and a second sensing element 41b. The first sensing element 41a is located on a first side (width direction) of the rope 2, spaced d4 from the rope 2. The second sensing element 41b is located on a second side (width direction) of the rope 2, also spaced d4 from the rope 2. The rope 2 is closer to the beam portion than the sensing elements 41 on both sides (width direction). Specifically, the distance d4 between the rope 2 and the sensing elements 41a and 41b is greater on both sides (width direction) of the rope 2 than the distance d2 between the rope and the beam portions 31a and 31b. This helps the rope 2 to reach one of the beam portions 31a and 31b before reaching one of the sensing elements 41 when it begins to shift along the width direction w.

[0099] Figure 5 and Figure 6 It shows Figure 1 Preferred details of the embodiment. In this case, each sensing element 41 can be displaced by contacting the sensing element 41 with a rope 2 that is displaced in the width direction w, and the displacement of each sensing element 41 is arranged to trigger one or more actions for stopping and / or preventing movement of the elevator car 60. Figure 9A preferred embodiment of the elevator is shown, illustrating an elevator car 60. The action preferably includes stopping and / or preventing rotation of the elevator's traction sheave 51, around which the rope 2 passes. This is preferably achieved by actuating a mechanical brake 53 of the drive mechanism 50 to brake the rotation of the elevator's traction sheave 51, and / or by initiating braking via the motor 52, and / or stopping power supply to the motor 52 used to rotate the traction sheave 51. If desired, the stopping of the elevator car 60 can also be performed in a controlled manner, such that the elevator car stops at a floor, for example, the nearest possible floor in the direction of car movement. In this case, the stopping preferably includes braking via the motor 52.

[0100] exist Figure 5 and Figure 6 In this embodiment, each of the sensing elements 41 is displaceable at least in the longitudinal direction of the rope 2 (lateral displacement may also occur when pivoting with a relatively small pivot radius). Thus, when the rope 2 moves in its longitudinal direction during elevator use and is displaced along the width of the row to contact the sensing element 41, the rope 2 is arranged, for example, to frictionally engage the sensing element 41 and push the rope to displace it. This displacement is preferably achieved by pivoting, such as... Figure 5 and Figure 6 The situation in the embodiments. For this purpose, Figure 5 and Figure 6 In this embodiment, each of the sensing elements 41 is pivotally and displaceably mounted about axis a. Axis a preferably extends parallel to the width direction w of the row. The pivoting displacement of each sensing element 41 is arranged to trigger one or more actions to stop and / or prevent movement of the elevator car 60. Preferably, although not necessarily, the sensing elements 41 are displaceably mounted via a common movable support 35. The monitoring device, particularly the second device for sensing the displacement of the rope 2, includes at least one electrical sensor 36 arranged to sense the position of the movable support 35, and the displacement of the support 35 (particularly its pivoting) is arranged to trigger one or more actions to stop and / or prevent movement of the elevator car 60.

[0101] exist Figure 5 In a preferred embodiment, the second device for sensing the displacement of the rope 2, the sensor 36, is preferably in the form of a switch with a sensing head 36a for sensing the position of the carrier 35. In a preferred embodiment, the sensing head 36a extends into an opening 37a formed in one of the two flanges 37 of the carrier 35, through which the carrier 35 is pivotally mounted on a fixedly mounted frame 39 (particularly on its flange 39a). The second device for sensing the displacement of the rope 2 preferably also includes a device 34 for resisting said displacement of the carrier 35. Figure 5 In the illustrated embodiment, the device 34 is in the form of one or more springs 34 arranged to resist pivoting of the carrier 35. The springs preferably also serve to hold the sensing member positioned such that the sensing member can pivot about axis a in either direction.

[0102] To facilitate the transmission of sensor signals from the at least one electrical sensor 36, the at least one electrical sensor is arranged to sense the position of the movable carrier 35, and the monitoring system 100 is preferably connected to the electrical sensor. Figure 7 One possible implementation is illustrated schematically.

[0103] exist Figure 1 In a preferred embodiment, the rope is preferably a belt. The width of the rope 2 is greater than its thickness. The rope 2 preferably passes around a traction pulley 51 rotatable by a motor 52 and / or around at least one rope pulley 54, such that the wide side of each rope 2 (i.e., the side facing the thickness direction t of the rope 2 and / or the row) abuts against the crown shape 55 of the traction pulley 51 / rope pulley 54. This is in Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown in the diagram, the traction wheel 51 / rope wheel 54 comprises adjacent crown shapes 55, with a rope 2 placed against each of them. For ease of guidance through the crowns, the rope 2 is preferably a strip, and the width-to-thickness ratio of the rope 2 is preferably greater than 2. For ease of guidance through the crowns, the wide side of each rope 2 placed against the crown shape 55 of the traction wheel 51 / rope wheel 54 is preferably flat or at least substantially flat.

[0104] Figure 9 An elevator according to a preferred embodiment is shown. The elevator includes an elevator car 60 and an elevator rope 2 connected thereto. The elevator includes a monitoring device 1 for the elevator rope 2, as described anywhere above or below in this application. Figure 9 The rope 2 shown forms the aforementioned rope row. The elevator includes a traction sheave 51 and a motor 52 for rotating the traction sheave 51, as well as a mechanical brake 53 for braking the rotation of the traction sheave 51. (See reference...) Figure 8 The rope 2 passes over the traction member 51 and the rope wheel 54.

[0105] One or more light emitters 30a, 30b are positioned such that beam portions 31a, 31b travel along the thickness direction of the row of ropes 2 at a location where the ropes 2 do not contact the rope pulleys 51, 54, and in the illustrated case, more specifically, at a position between the car 60 and the pulleys 51, 53 around which the ropes 2 pass. Similarly, a sensing member 41 is positioned such that the ropes do not contact the rope pulleys 51, 54, and in the illustrated case, more specifically, at a position between the car 60 and the pulley 51 around which the ropes 2 pass. Alternatively, the aforementioned position may be between the elevator counterweight and the pulleys 51, 53 around which the ropes 2 pass. In a preferred embodiment, one or more light emitters 30a, 30b are positioned such that beam portions 31a, 31b travel along the thickness direction of the row of ropes 2 at a position close to the sensing member 41, most preferably such that the distance measured along the ropes 2 between the beam portions 31a, 31b and the sensing member 41 is less than 1 meter. This allows the first and second devices used to sense rope displacement to monitor the same section of rope and complement each other, enabling the first sensing device to be adjusted to provide early warning without causing the elevator to stop immediately and abruptly.

[0106] The monitoring system 100 may include local and / or remote units for performing monitoring system tasks. The local and / or remote units may include one or more computers or computer systems, thereby enabling the monitoring system 100 to perform complex tasks. The local and / or remote units may include one or more memory units for storing data and / or computer programs used to perform the monitoring system tasks. The memory units may include, for example, local memory, cloud memory, or remote memory accessible via wired or wireless means. The monitoring system 100 is generally considered broadly and may include complex systems such as safety chains. Therefore, one or more actions to be triggered can be triggered by the safety chain if needed, which is common in elevator safety-related actions, particularly those concerning elevator stopping. Specifically, a second device for sensing displacement (via sensing member 41) may be connected to the safety chain, while a first device for sensing displacement is preferably connected to the computer or computer system included in the monitoring system 1. Preferably, stopping and / or preventing rotation of the elevator's traction wheel 51 (around which the rope 2 passes) can be arranged such that: actuating the mechanical brake 53 of the drive mechanism 50 to brake the rotation of the elevator traction wheel 51, and / or initiating braking via the motor 52, and / or stopping power supply to the motor 52 used to rotate the traction wheel 51, which can be arranged to occur due to the breakage of the safety chain. Furthermore, this can be implemented such that a sensor 36 is arranged to disconnect the safety chain (safety circuit) in response to a sensed displacement by switching the safety chain to a non-conductive state; the sensor 36 is preferably in the form of a switch (safety switch). The safety chain is a well-known component of elevators, and its structure will not be described further here. The use of a safety chain may be preferred for improved safety; however, it is not essential, as stopping can also be arranged in a controlled manner without involving the safety circuit, thereby stopping at a landing, such as the nearest possible landing in the direction of car movement. In this case, stopping preferably includes braking via the motor 52.

[0107] Figure 10A preferred structure of rope 2 is shown. In this case, rope 2 includes a plurality of load-bearing members 2a adjacent to each other in the width direction of rope 2. Alternatively, rope 2 may include a single, larger load-bearing member 2a. Each load-bearing member 2a is a long member extending parallel to the longitudinal direction of rope 2, as a continuous and uninterrupted structure along the entire length of rope 2. The load-bearing members 2a are embedded in a coating 2b. The load-bearing members 2a are adjacent to each other in the width direction of rope 2 and are isolated from each other by the coating 2b. The coating 2b is preferably made of a material comprising a polymer, such as rubber, polyurethane, or silicone. In a preferred embodiment, the load-bearing members 2a are made of a composite material comprising reinforcing fibers, preferably carbon fibers, embedded in a matrix comprising a polymer material, such as epoxy resin. Such a composite material structure may be damaged, worn, or deteriorated, or the internal or surface structure of the rope may cause displacement, which may require a response before the problem worsens.

[0108] exist Figure 11 The image shows a monitoring device 1 for the elevator rope 2 according to a second embodiment. This embodiment is otherwise described in reference to... Figure 1 The above is achieved by using a reduced number of light emitters 30a and 30b. This is accomplished by guiding the light using mirror elements m and m2. Therefore, the same beam emitted by one light emitter 30a can be used to form more than one light section 31a or 31b.

[0109] In this embodiment, the monitoring device 1 includes a semi-transparent mirror element m, which is located in the path of the beam portion 31a belonging to the plurality of beam portions, more specifically, in the path of the first beam portion 31a in each pair p1-p7. A portion of each first beam portion 31a is guided through the mirror element m to reach the first light sensor (here reaching the first light sensor 32a in the pair under discussion), and another portion of the first beam portion 31a is arranged to be reflected away from the path toward the first light sensor 32a, and is arranged (in this example, by means of a total internal reflection opaque mirror element m2) to form another beam portion 31b belonging to the plurality of beam portions and guided toward another light sensor. Here, the other beam portion 31b is the second beam portion 31b in the pair p1-p7 under discussion, which is guided toward the second light sensor 32b in the pair p1-p7 under discussion.

[0110] Figure 12The following situation is illustrated: Rope 2 (third from the left) has moved away from its position between a pair of p3 beam portions 31a, 31b in the width direction w of the row, causing the rope to cross the path of beam portion 31b. This blocks the light from beam portion 31b from reaching the light sensor 32b. In the monitoring system 100, a single rope 2 is associated with each light sensor 32a, 32b (e.g., via a computer program). Thus, the monitoring system 100 can easily identify the rope causing the change in the monitored signal. Therefore, a potentially problematic rope 2 can be identified, and the user can be informed of the rope 2 in question, allowing the user to pay attention to the rope in question as early as possible, such as checking, maintaining, or preparing to replace the individual rope in question. If rope 2 is in Figure 12 The beam 31a is moved to the left to block the light from the beam 31a from reaching the first light sensor 32a. Due to the use of mirror m, this also blocks the light from the beam 31b from reaching the second light sensor 32b. In this case, the monitoring system 100 can also identify which rope 2 has caused a change in the monitored signal. If needed, the monitoring system 100 can be configured to infer which of the light portions 31a or 31b associated with the rope 2 and directed towards the light sensors 32a or 32b is blocked by the rope 2, and thereby infer in which direction (left or right in the figure) the rope 2 has shifted from between the pair of light portions 31a or 31b. This inference can be implemented such that a signal change in only one of the light sensors 32a, 32b illuminated by the pair of light portions signifies a displacement in the direction of the second light portion, and a signal change in both the first light sensor 32a and the second light sensor 32b illuminated by the pair of light portions signifies a displacement in the direction of the first light portion. Therefore, the monitoring system 100 can identify and / or indicate the direction of displacement of the rope 2 based on the sensor signals of the optical sensors 32a and 32b associated with the rope 2 (third from the left).

[0111] Figure 13 A monitoring device 1 for the elevator rope 2 according to a third embodiment is shown. This embodiment is otherwise described in reference to... Figure 1 and Figure 11 The aforementioned embodiment is achieved using a reduced number of light emitters 30a and 30b. This is accomplished by guiding the light using mirror elements m and m2. This embodiment is otherwise as described in reference. Figure 11 However, device 1 includes a semi-transparent mirror element m, which is also in the path of the other portion of the first light beam portion 31a. This semi-transparent mirror element m is reflected away from the path toward the first light sensor 32a. Therefore, the same light beam emitted by one light emitter 30a can be used to form more than two light portions 31a, 31b.

[0112] In this embodiment, the monitoring device 1 includes a semi-transparent mirror element m, which is located in the path of a first beam portion 31a in a pair p1. A portion of the first beam portion 31a is guided through the mirror element m toward a first photosensitive sensor 32a in the pair under discussion. Another portion of the first beam portion 31a is arranged to be reflected away from the path toward the photosensitive sensor 32a and is arranged (in this example, by means of a total internal reflection opaque mirror element m2) to form a second beam portion 31b in the pair p1 under discussion. The second beam portion 31b is guided toward the second photosensitive sensor 32b in the pair under discussion. In this embodiment, the monitoring device 1 includes a semi-transparent mirror element m, which is also located in the path of the second beam portion 31b in the pair p1 under discussion. A portion of the second beam portion 31b is guided through the mirror element m and directed toward the second photosensor 32b of the pair p1 discussed therein. A portion of the second beam portion 31b is arranged to be reflected away from the path directed toward the second photosensor 32b and is arranged to form another beam portion 31a of the plurality of beam portions, which is guided toward another photosensor 32a. In particular, it forms the first beam portion 31a of the pair p2, which is guided toward the first photosensor 32a of the pair p2.

[0113] Figure 14 The following scenario illustrates a situation where rope 2 (third from the left) moves away from its position between the beam portions 31a and 31b of a pair of p3 in the width direction w of the row, causing the rope to traverse the path of the second beam portion 31b of the pair of p3. This blocks the light from the beam portion 31b from reaching the photosensor 32b. The monitoring system 100 can easily identify the rope 2 that caused the change in the monitored signal. The monitoring system 100 can infer that the rope 2 associated with the sensor that first provides the change signal in sequence is the rope 2 that has moved away from its position between the beam portions 31a and 31b of the pair of p3. Furthermore, the monitoring system 100 can identify and / or indicate the direction of the displacement of rope 2 based on the sensor signals of the photosensors 32a and 32b associated with rope 2 (third from the left).

[0114] Figure 15 A monitoring device 1 for the elevator rope 2 according to a third embodiment is shown. This embodiment is otherwise described in reference to... Figure 1 and Figure 11 However, this is achieved using two light emitters 30a and 30b, which are arranged to emit light beams. Each light beam is guided by mirror elements m and m2, such that each light beam forms more than two of the plurality of light beam portions, and together they form all of the plurality of light beam portions.

[0115] In this embodiment, the monitoring device 1 includes a semi-transparent mirror element m, which is located in the path of a first beam portion 31a in a pair p1. The first beam portion is emitted by a light emitter 30a, and the pair p1 is the first pair in sequence when viewed along the width direction of the row. A portion of the first beam portion 31a is guided through the mirror element m and directed towards a first photosensitive sensor 32a in the pair under discussion. Another portion of the first beam portion 31a is arranged to be reflected away from the path directed towards the first photosensitive sensor 32a, and is arranged (in this example, by means of a total internal reflection opaque mirror element m2) to form another beam portion 31a belonging to the plurality of beam portions, which is guided towards another photosensitive sensor. Here, the other beam portion 31a is the first beam portion 31a in the next pair p2 in sequence when viewed along the width direction of the row. The beam portion 31a is directed toward the first photosensor 32a in the pair p2 under discussion. A portion of the first beam portion 31a in the pair p2 is directed through a defined mirror element m and toward the first photosensor 32a in the pair p2 under discussion. Another portion of the first beam portion 31a is arranged to be reflected away from the path toward the first photosensor 32a and is arranged (in this example, by means of a total internal reflection opaque mirror element m2) to form the beam portion 31a in a pair p3, which is the next pair in sequence when viewed along the width direction of the row. In this way, the light from the light emitter 30a is further directed such that the light forms the first beam portion 31a of all the remaining pairs p4, p5, p6, and p7.

[0116] In this embodiment, the monitoring device 1 includes a semi-transparent mirror element m, which is located in the path of the second beam portion 31a of a pair of p7s. The first beam portion is emitted by a light emitter 30b. The pair of p7s is the last pair in sequence when viewed along the width direction of the row. The monitoring device 1 includes a semi-transparent mirror element m, which is located in the path of the second first beam portion 31b of the pair of p7s. A portion of the second beam portion 31b is guided through the mirror element m and directed toward the second photosensor 32b of the pair under discussion. Another portion of the first second beam portion 31b is arranged to be reflected away from the path directed toward the second photosensor 32b, and is arranged (in this example, by means of a total internal reflection opaque mirror element m2) to form another beam portion 31b belonging to the plurality of beam portions, and is guided toward another photosensor. Here, the other beam portion 31b is the second beam portion 31b of the next pair of p6s in sequence when viewed along the width direction of the row. The beam portion 31b is directed toward the second photosensor 32b in the pair of p6 discussed. A portion of the second beam portion 31b in the pair of p6 is directed through the defined mirror element m and toward the second photosensor 32b in the pair of p6 discussed. Another portion of the second beam portion 31b is arranged to be reflected away from the path toward the second photosensor 32b and is arranged (in this example, by means of the total internal reflection opaque mirror element m2) to form the second beam portion 31b in the pair of p5, which is the next pair in sequence when viewed along the width direction of the row. In this way, the light from the light emitter 30b is further directed so that it also forms the second beam portion 31b of all the remaining pairs of p4, p3, p2, and p1.

[0117] Figure 16 The following situation is illustrated: rope 2 (third from the left) moves away from its position between a pair of p3 beam portions 31a and 31b in the width direction w of the row, causing the rope to traverse the path of the second beam portion 31b of the pair of p3 beams. This blocks the light from the beam portion 31b from reaching the light sensor 32b. The monitoring system 100 can easily identify rope 2 that causes the change in the monitored signal. The monitoring system 100 can infer that, in sequence ( Figure 16 (From right to left) The first sensor that provides the change signal is associated with rope 2, which has moved away from its position between the beam portions 31a and 31b of a pair of p3. Furthermore, the monitoring system 100 can identify and / or indicate the direction of displacement of rope 2 based on the sensor signals of the optical sensors 32a and 32b associated with rope 2 (third from left).

[0118] Figure 17A monitoring device 1' (unclaimed scheme) for an elevator rope 2 is shown. The elevator rope includes: a row of ropes 2, the row of ropes including multiple ropes 2 arranged side by side; and a plurality of light emitters 30c, the plurality of light emitters 30c being arranged to emit light beams forming a plurality of spaced-apart beam portions 31c, the beam portions 31c being oriented to travel along the thickness direction of the row of ropes 2, each rope 2 being positioned between a pair of p1-p7 beam portions 31c in the width direction of the row, wherein adjacent pairs of p1 and p2, pairs of p2 and p3, pairs of p3 and p4, pairs of p4 and p5, pairs of p5 and p6, and pairs of p6 and p7 of the beam portions 31c share beam portions 31c between them. The monitoring device 1' includes a plurality of optical sensors 32c for sensing the light from the one or more light emitters 30c, particularly for each of the beam portions 31c, including an optical sensor 32c for sensing the light from the beam portion 31c, the beam portion 31c being directed toward the optical sensor 32c, wherein each of the ropes 2 is arranged to block the light from the beam portion from the optical sensor when each rope 2 moves away from its position between a pair of p1-p7 beam portions 31c in the width direction w of the row, such that the rope traverses the path of the beam portion. The monitoring device 1' includes a monitoring system 100, the monitoring system 100 being arranged to monitor the sensor signals of the plurality of optical sensors 32c.

[0119] Typically, the light emitted by the light emitters 30a and 30b can be any light, but preferably laser or infrared light.

[0120] In the preferred embodiment described and with reference to the accompanying drawings, for each individual rope 2, there are independent pairs of beam portions 31a, 31b, p1-p7. As described, this is preferably implemented such that the path of the rope crossing the beam portion is arranged to block the light from the beam portion from reaching the light sensor. Based on the signal change of the light sensor, the monitoring system can be configured to trigger / execute the action. However, the signal change of the light sensor does not need to be caused by blocking the light from the beam portion from reaching the light sensor. This is because, as an alternative to the blocking, the detectable change can be caused by the beam portion reflecting off the rope crossing the path of the beam portion to the light sensor. Also in this alternative, for each individual rope 2, there are independent pairs of beam portions 31a, 31b, p1-p7, as described above. Figures 1-16 The situation described in any of the examples. However, reflection is sensed, and for this reason, the light sensor is positioned differently, such that the beam portions are not directed toward the light sensor, but instead the light from each beam portion is arranged to reach the light sensor only when the rope crosses the path of the beam portion, so that the light is reflected from the rope to the light sensor of interest.

[0121] Typically, the monitoring system 100 preferably, but not necessarily, includes collecting and storing sensor signal data based on the sensor signals from the plurality of optical sensors. Therefore, the system 100 can analyze the data in a sophisticated and intelligent manner, for example, to infer additional information, such as the location of structural causes of displacement on a rope. For this purpose, the monitoring system 100 is preferably configured to collect, store, and analyze sensor signal data based on the sensor signals from the plurality of optical sensors.

[0122] Typically, the monitoring device 1 is used in conjunction with a solution utilizing rope guidance, which is achieved through the crown shape of the wheel. However, this is not mandatory, as at least some of the advantages can also be achieved with other types of rope guidance.

[0123] Typically, and although not necessarily, the rope is a belt, and most preferably, the rope is a belt comprising one or more load-bearing members made of composite materials. However, at least some advantages can also be achieved with other types of rope structures, such as belts comprising other types of load-bearing members (e.g., metal ropes). Some advantages can also be achieved with ropes having a circular cross-sectional shape.

[0124] Typically, the ropes 2 in this row preferably extend in the same plane (as shown) or at least substantially in the same plane, particularly near the monitoring position of the first and / or second device used to sense rope displacement. However, perfect alignment in the same plane is not required, as some variation in the position of the ropes in the thickness direction t of the row will not significantly interfere with the operation of the solution. Nevertheless, the ropes 2 should be side-by-side when viewed along the thickness direction t of the row, and preferably, when viewed along the width direction w of the row, the ropes 2 are spaced apart from each other by a distance. Therefore, their position in the width direction can be effectively monitored with the new solution.

[0125] It should be understood that the above description and drawings are intended only to teach the inventors the known best methods of making and using the invention. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the inventive concept can be implemented in various ways. Therefore, those skilled in the art will understand from the above teachings that the above embodiments of the invention can be modified or altered without departing from the invention. Therefore, it should be understood that the invention and its embodiments are not limited to the above examples, but can be varied within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A monitoring device (1) for an elevator rope (2), comprising: Rows of ropes (2), including multiple ropes (2) arranged side by side; as well as One or more light emitters (30a, 30b) are arranged to emit one or more light beams, which form a plurality of spaced-apart beam portions (31a, 31b) oriented to travel along the thickness direction (t) of the row of ropes (2), wherein for each individual rope (2), there are independent pairs (p1-p7) of the beam portions (31a, 31b), and each rope is positioned in the width direction (w) of the row between a pair of beam portions (p1-p7) of the beam portions (31a, 31b); as well as Multiple optical sensors (32a, 32b) are used to sense the light from the one or more optical emitters (30a, 30b); as well as The monitoring system (100) is arranged to monitor the sensor signals of the plurality of optical sensors (32a, 32b).

2. The apparatus (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The plurality of optical sensors (32a, 32b) include optical sensors (32a, 32b) for sensing the light of the light beam portion (31a, 31b) for each of the light beam portions (31a, 31b).

3. The apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The plurality of light sensors (32a, 32b) include a light sensor (32a, 32b) for sensing light from the light beam portion (31a, 31b) for each of the light beam portions (31a, 31b), the light beam portions (31a, 31b) being directed toward the light sensor (32a, 32b), wherein each of the ropes (2) is arranged to block light from the light beam portion (31a, 31b) from being directed toward the light sensor (32a, 32b) when each of the ropes (2) moves away from its position between the pair (p1-p7) light beam portions (31a, 31b) in the width direction (w) of the row.

4. The apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The light is laser light or infrared light.

5. The apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The monitoring system (100) is configured as follows: A predetermined change in the sensor signal of any one of the optical sensors (32a, 32b) is detected, the predetermined change indicating that a portion of the light beam entering the optical sensor (32a, 32b) is blocked, the predetermined change preferably being an interruption of the signal, or an interruption of the signal for at least a predetermined time period; as well as One or more actions are performed in response to the detection of a predetermined change in the sensor signal of any of the optical sensors (32a, 32b), the one or more actions preferably including generating an alarm signal.

6. The apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The monitoring system (100) is configured as follows: The optical sensors (32a, 32b) identify and / or indicate that a predetermined change has been detected in the sensor signal; and / or Identify and / or indicate the rope (2) associated with the optical sensors (32a, 32b) that detect a predetermined change in the sensor signal; and / or Identify and / or indicate the direction in which the rope (2) has shifted.

7. The apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The monitoring system (100) is configured to: record the position of the elevator car (60) at the moment when the sensor signal of any of the optical sensors (32a, 32b) undergoes the predetermined change, and / or determine, for example by calculation, which part of the rope (2) is located at the position point of the optical sensor (32a, 32b) when the predetermined change occurs in the sensor signal.

8. The apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, There is only one rope (2) between each pair of beam portions (31a, 31b) (p1-p7).

9. The apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The beam portions (31a, 31b) of each pair (p1-p7) are spaced apart by a distance (d1) greater than the width (w1) of the rope (2) located between the pair (p1-p7) beam portions.

10. The apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, Each pair of beam portions (p1-p7) has a first beam portion (31a) and a second beam portion (31b) having a side edge (e) that extends on the opposite side of the rope (2) at a distance from the rope (2), and the side edge (e) defines a distance (d1) between the pair of beam portions (31a, 31b).

11. The apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, Each pair of (p1-p7) beam portions (31a, 31b) includes a first beam portion (31a) and a second beam portion (31b). The first beam portion (31a) is arranged to shine on a first side of the rope (2) toward a first photosensitive sensor (32a) spaced apart from the rope (2). The second beam portion (31b) is arranged on a second side of the rope to shine on a second photosensitive sensor (32b) spaced apart from the rope (2).

12. The apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, In the monitoring system (100), a single rope (2) is associated with each optical sensor (32a, 32b).

13. The apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The monitoring device (1) includes a first device for sensing the displacement of the rope (2) and a second device for sensing the displacement of the rope (2). The first device includes the one or more light emitters (30a, 30b) and the plurality of light sensors (32a, 32b). The monitoring system (100) is configured to trigger one or more actions based on the sensing of the second device to stop and / or prevent the movement of the elevator car (60) of the elevator.

14. The apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The device (1) is preferably the second device as defined in the preceding claims, the device (1) comprising a plurality of sensing members (41) for sensing the displacement of the rope (2) in the width direction of the row, each rope (2) being positioned between a pair of sensing members (41) in the width direction of the row.

15. The apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, Each rope (2) is located between a pair of (p1-p7) beam portions (31a, 31b) and a pair of (p1'-p7') sensing members (41), and the distance (d3) between the pair of sensing members (41) in the width direction (w) of the row is greater than the distance (d1) between the pair of (p1-p7) beam portions (31a, 31b) in the width direction (w) of the row.

16. The apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, Each sensing element (41) is displaceable by a rope (2) in the width direction to contact the sensing element (41), and the displacement of each sensing element (41) is arranged to trigger one or more actions to stop and / or prevent the movement of the elevator car (60), the actions preferably including stopping and / or preventing the rotation of the traction wheel (51) around which the rope (2) of the elevator passes.

17. The apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The monitoring system (100) includes one or more local units and / or one or more remote units for performing the tasks of the monitoring system. The one or more local units and / or one or more remote units preferably include one or more computers or computer systems, particularly computers or computer systems for performing the tasks of the monitoring system (100).

18. An elevator (200) comprising an elevator car (60) and a monitoring device (1) for an elevator rope (2) as described in any of the preceding claims.

19. The elevator (200) or monitoring device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The rope (2) is a belt.

20. The elevator (200) or monitoring device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, Each of the ropes (2) includes one or more load-bearing members (2a) made of a composite material, the composite material including reinforcing fibers embedded in a matrix, the reinforcing fibers preferably being carbon fibers, the matrix comprising a polymer material, such as epoxy resin.

21. The elevator (200) or monitoring device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The rope (2) passes around a traction wheel (51) that can be rotated by a motor (52) and / or around at least one rope wheel (54), in particular making the wide side of each rope (2) abut against the crown shape (55) of the traction wheel (51) / rope wheel (54).

Images