Split magnetic wheel encoder for an elevator

Abstract

Systems, devices, and methods provide an elevator system with a split magnetic wheel encoder. The split magnetic wheel encoder includes a magnetic wheel including a first half wheel removably coupled to a second half wheel, and a read head positioned adjacent to the magnetic wheel. The magnetic wheel is sized to fit between an elevator motor and an elevator motor support arm when positioned about an elevator motor shaft.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to systems, apparatus, and methods for magnetic wheel encoders. Specifically, embodiments of this disclosure relate to systems, apparatus, and methods for split-type magnetic wheel encoders used in elevators. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of elevator modernization, it is generally desirable to modernize motor feedback devices (such as encoders). Many elevators that have reached 10-20 years of age are undergoing modernization to improve the user experience. Motor drive systems are frequently modernized using newer drive technologies. This sometimes necessitates modernizing the motor speed feedback devices (such as encoders).

[0003] In elevators, the motor that moves the elevator car is driven by a variable frequency drive (VFD). To achieve smooth movement, especially at low rotational speeds, the VFD requires a speed sensor mounted on the motor shaft. Most commonly, an encoder is used as the speed sensor.

[0004] In geared elevators, encoders are typically mounted on the rear end (B side) of the motor using a flexible connector. This makes replacement relatively easy when the encoder needs to be changed.

[0005] However, in some gearless elevator machines, the motor shaft cannot be used to mount the encoder, so an encoder-mounted alternative was used in the original design. (Reference) Figure 2-3 This alternative installation uses a friction wheel encoder 200, see reference. Figure 1 The friction wheel encoder 200 contacts the outer diameter 102 of the elevator motor 100 and thus measures the motor speed. However, the mounting part 104 of the friction wheel encoder 200 has a limited lifespan. The wheel itself deforms over time, causing wheel slippage, which leads to speed measurement errors. This results in difficulties in motor control.

[0006] The existing solution for dealing with encoder signal corruption in some gearless machines is to replace the encoder with a new set of encoders and friction wheels. This solution is only effective for a limited time and requires relatively frequent encoder replacements, which is not what elevator maintenance companies want.

[0007] Another option is to replace the existing elevator machine with a newer design that uses a magnetic ring encoder securely mounted on the motor shaft by the original equipment manufacturer. However, this requires disassembling the old machine and installing the new one, which is costly.

[0008] Another option is to replace the friction wheel encoder with a commercially available magnetic ring encoder. This requires disassembling the machine, turning the motor shaft diameter on a lathe to fit the encoder wheel size, and milling certain parts of the machine to mount the sensor head. This operation cannot be performed on-site and would require the expensive disassembly and transport of the elevator machine to a tool shop.

[0009] Friction wheel incremental encoders are widely used in motion control systems to measure the position and speed of rotating shafts. These encoders consist of a rotating disk with evenly spaced slots and a friction wheel in contact with the disk. As the wheel rotates, the slots on the disk interrupt the light beam, generating an electrical signal that can be used to calculate the shaft position and speed. One of the main advantages of friction wheel incremental encoders is their low cost compared to other types of encoders. They are also easy to install and require minimal maintenance. However, they are limited in resolution and accuracy, which can be affected by factors such as wear on the friction wheel and disk. Furthermore, any slippage between the wheel and disk can easily introduce errors, leading to inaccurate position and speed measurements. Additionally, any angular misalignment or diameter variation (due to manufacturing defects, wear, or variations in the downward load on the rotating spring) is a significant source of speed error.

[0010] Magnetic ring encoders are another type of encoder used in motion control systems to measure the position and speed of rotating shafts. These encoders consist of a rotating ring with magnetic poles and a sensor that detects changes in the magnetic field as the ring rotates. The changes in the magnetic field generate an electrical signal, which can be used to calculate the shaft's position and speed. One of the main advantages of magnetic ring encoders is their high resolution and accuracy, making them ideal for applications requiring precise control. They are also wear-resistant, making them a reliable choice for long-term use. However, they are generally more expensive than other types of encoders and may require more complex installation and maintenance procedures due to their sensitive magnetic sensors. Furthermore, they can be affected by external magnetic fields, which can interfere with measurement accuracy.

[0011] Split-type magnetic wheel encoders are also known. The split-wheel design allows for the easiest installation on an existing shaft, especially where the motor shaft end is easily accessible. Split-wheels are suitable for installation locations without a free shaft end because they avoid time-consuming assembly and disassembly work. Split-wheel systems are particularly suitable for retrofit and upgrade projects when it is necessary to integrate the encoder into existing equipment. However, the dimensions of existing split-type magnetic wheel encoders are not suitable for retrofitting existing elevator systems. This requires disassembling the machine and machining the motor shaft diameter on a lathe to fit the dimensions of the split-type magnetic wheel encoder. This operation cannot be performed on-site and requires the expensive disassembly and transportation of the elevator machine to a tool shop. Summary of the Invention

[0012] Advantageously, some embodiments discussed herein provide for the easy installation of split-type magnetic ring encoders on existing gearless elevator machines. The magnetic ring is split, allowing it to be mounted around the elevator motor shaft without disassembling the elevator machine. The installation of the magnetic ring requires minimal adjustments to the elevator machine. These adjustments can be made on-site without disassembling the elevator machine. The read head of the split-type magnetic ring encoder can be mounted on the elevator machine without disassembling it. A key advantage is the ability to upgrade elevator machines with reliably fixed-mount split-type magnetic ring encoders without disassembling the elevator machine.

[0013] As will be described in more detail below, in some embodiments discussed herein, systems, apparatuses, and methods provide an elevator system with a split-type magnetic wheel encoder. The split-type magnetic wheel encoder includes a magnetic wheel comprising a first half-wheel removably coupled to a second half-wheel; and a read head positioned adjacent to the magnetic wheel. The magnetic wheel is sized to be mountable between the elevator motor and an elevator motor support arm when positioned about an elevator motor shaft.

[0014] In one example, the encoder includes a magnetic wheel comprising a first half-wheel removably coupled to a second half-wheel, and a read head positioned adjacent to the magnetic wheel. The magnetic wheel is sized to fit between the elevator motor and the elevator motor support arm when positioned about the elevator motor shaft.

[0015] In another example, one method involves attaching a magnetic wheel of an encoder around an elevator motor shaft and positioning a read head adjacent to the magnetic wheel. In this method, the magnetic wheel is sized to fit between the elevator motor and an elevator motor support arm. Furthermore, the magnetic wheel includes a first half-wheel removably attached to a second half-wheel. Finally, the magnetic wheel is attached to the elevator motor shaft without removing the elevator motor support arm from the elevator motor.

[0016] In another example, an elevator system includes: an elevator motor including an elevator motor shaft; an elevator motor support arm coupled to the elevator motor; and an encoder coupled to the elevator motor. The encoder includes a magnetic wheel comprising a first half-wheel removably coupled to a second half-wheel; and a read head positioned adjacent to the magnetic wheel. The magnetic wheel is sized to be able to fit between the elevator motor and the elevator motor support arm when positioned around the elevator motor shaft.

[0017] The summary of this invention aims to introduce some concepts in a simplified form, which will be further described in the detailed embodiments below. The foregoing summary and the following detailed description of certain embodiments will be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter. Attached Figure Description

[0018] The foregoing and other features and advantages will be discussed in detail in the following non-limiting description of specific embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein: Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional diagram of an elevator system equipped with a friction wheel encoder for receiving signals; Figure 2 This is a 3D diagram of a friction wheel encoder; Figure 3 This is a 3D diagram of the back side of a friction wheel encoder; Figure 4 This is a perspective view of an elevator system with a split magnetic wheel encoder, as exemplified by the present disclosure. Figure 5 This is a perspective view of a split magnetic wheel encoder based on an example of the present disclosure; Figure 6 This is a perspective view of a split-type magnetic wheel encoder divided into two parts, as exemplified by the present disclosure. Figure 7 This is a side view of a split magnetic wheel encoder being installed in an elevator system, as exemplified by this disclosure. Figure 8 This is a perspective view of a split-type magnetic wheel encoder divided into two parts, as exemplified by the present disclosure. Figure 9 This is a perspective view of a split magnetic wheel encoder connected together according to an example of this disclosure; Figure 10 This is a perspective view of the reader head of a split-type magnetic wheel encoder exemplified by this disclosure; and Figure 11 This is an example flowchart illustrating a method for connecting the magnetic wheel of an encoder around the shaft of an elevator motor. Detailed Implementation

[0019] As will be described in more detail below, in some embodiments discussed herein, the system, apparatus, and method provide an elevator system with a split-type magnetic wheel encoder. The split-type magnetic wheel encoder includes a magnetic wheel comprising a first half-wheel removably coupled to a second half-wheel; and a read head positioned adjacent to the magnetic wheel. The magnetic wheel is sized to be mountable between the elevator motor and the elevator motor support arm when positioned about the elevator motor shaft.

[0020] Advantageously, some embodiments discussed herein provide for the easy installation of split-type magnetic ring encoders on existing gearless elevator machines. The magnetic ring is split, allowing it to be mounted around the elevator motor shaft without disassembling the elevator machine. The installation of the magnetic ring requires minimal adjustments to the elevator machine. These adjustments can be made on-site without disassembling the elevator machine. The read head of the split-type magnetic ring encoder can be mounted on the elevator machine without disassembling it. A key advantage is the ability to upgrade elevator machines with a reliably fixed split-type magnetic ring encoder without disassembling the elevator machine.

[0021] In addition, to address the unique challenges of elevator modernization, the embodiments described herein may also include one or more of the following features: 1) A method for securing the halves of a magnetic wheel together – A split wheel design is used to enable field installation of the encoder wheel. However, after the split wheel is assembled, it is necessary to secure the two (or more) parts of the wheel. This can be achieved using a screw and thread design, unlike other commercially available products. In this example, two screws are secured after each half of the wheel. The screw heads can be easily accessed using an Allen wrench or other similar tool. Furthermore, locating pins are used to force the two halves of the split wheel design to remain aligned.

[0022] 2) The magnetic wheel is narrow – unlike existing designs, this magnetic wheel can be fitted into the available space on the elevator machine.

[0023] 3) Size and shape of the reader – Unlike existing designs, the size of the reader sensor is set so that the reader can be fitted into the space of existing available elevator machines.

[0024] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of an elevator system 402 with a split-type magnetic wheel encoder 400, as exemplified by this disclosure. As will be discussed in more detail below, the elevator system 402 includes an elevator motor 404, an elevator motor support arm 406, and a split-type magnetic wheel encoder 400.

[0025] Elevator motor 404 includes elevator motor shaft 405. Elevator motor support arm 406 is connected to elevator motor 404 via elevator motor shaft 405. Split-type magnetic wheel encoder 400 is connected around elevator motor shaft 405 of elevator motor 404.

[0026] As shown in the figure, the dimensions of the split magnetic wheel encoder 400 are set such that it is assembled between the elevator motor 404 and the elevator motor support arm 406 when positioned around the elevator motor shaft 405.

[0027] Figure 5This is a perspective view of a split-type magnetic wheel encoder 400 according to an example of the present disclosure. As shown, the split-type magnetic wheel encoder 400 includes a magnetic wheel 500 and a reader head 502.

[0028] The magnetic wheel 500 has a first half-wheel 504 removably connected to the second half-wheel 506. The magnetic wheel 500 is sized to fit between the elevator motor and the elevator motor support arm when positioned around the elevator motor shaft.

[0029] The reader 502 is positioned adjacent to the magnetic wheel 500. The reader 502 includes a sensor 508 and a support arm 510. The support arm 510 is connected to the elevator motor support arm via a fastener 512 and maintains the sensor 508 at a fixed interval relative to the magnetic wheel 500. The support arm includes a slot 514 to receive the fastener 512. The slot 514 allows adjustment of the fixed interval arrangement relative to the magnetic wheel 500.

[0030] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of a split-type magnetic wheel encoder 400, which is divided into two parts according to an example of this disclosure. As shown, the magnetic wheel 500 has a first half-wheel 504 that is removably connected to the second half-wheel 506.

[0031] Figure 7 This is a side view of a split magnetic wheel encoder 400, as exemplified by this disclosure, being mounted to an elevator system 402. As shown, the read head 502 is positioned adjacent to the magnetic wheel 500. The support arm 510 of the read head 502 is connected to the elevator motor support arm 406 and maintains the sensor 508 at a fixed interval relative to the magnetic wheel 500.

[0032] The size of the reading head 502 is set to fit on the cover 410 extending from the elevator motor support arm 406 to partially cover the elevator motor 404 (see...). Figure 4 Below. For example, the width of the read head is between 10 mm and 15 mm.

[0033] The magnetic wheel 500 is sized to fit between the elevator motor 404 and the elevator motor support arm 406 when positioned around the elevator motor shaft 405. For example, the width of the magnetic wheel 500 is between 5 mm and 20 mm. In some examples, the magnetic wheel 500 is coupled to the elevator motor shaft 405 without removing the elevator motor support arm 406 from the elevator motor 404.

[0034] Figure 8 This is a perspective view of a split-type magnetic wheel encoder 400, which is divided into two parts according to an example of this disclosure. As shown, the magnetic wheel 500 has an outer ring lip 802 surrounding an inner ring disk 804.

[0035] In some examples, the width 805 of the inner ring disk 804 is smaller than the width 803 of the outer ring lip 802. In some embodiments, the width 805 of the inner ring disk 804 is between 5 mm and 10 mm, while the width 803 of the outer ring lip 802 is between 5 mm and 20 mm (or in some embodiments, the width 803 is between 5 mm and 15 mm).

[0036] The first half-wheel 504 has a first semi-circular shape and a first end face 814 at the end of the first semi-circular shape. The second half-wheel 506 has a second semi-circular shape and a second end face 816 at the end of the second semi-circular shape.

[0037] The first half-wheel 504 includes a first opening 820 located in the inner ring disc 804 and a first fastener housing 822. The first fastener housing 822 is located at the first end face 814 and adjacent to the first opening 820.

[0038] The second half-wheel 506 includes a second opening 830 located in the inner ring disc 804 and a second fastener housing 832. The second fastener housing 832 is located at the second end face 816 and adjacent to the second opening 830.

[0039] In some examples, the first fastener housing 822 has an alignment pin 824 that can be received within the second fastener housing 832.

[0040] In some implementations, a fastener 826 is used to attach the first fastener housing 822 to the second fastener housing 832. For example, the fastener may be a screw or other type of fastener.

[0041] Figure 9 This is a perspective view of a split magnetic wheel encoder 400 connected together according to an example of this disclosure. As shown, the first opening 820 is larger than the second opening 830. The first opening 820 is sized to accommodate a tool to approach and fasten the fastener 826. The second opening 830 is sized to accommodate the end of the fastener 826 when the first half-wheel 504 is engaged with the second half-wheel 506.

[0042] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of the read head of a split magnetic wheel encoder 400 according to an example of this disclosure. As shown, the read head 502 is sized to fit within a cover 410 extending from the elevator motor support arm 406 to partially cover the elevator motor 404 (see [reference]). Figure 4 Below. For example, the width of the read head 1000 is between 10 mm and 15 mm.

[0043] Figure 11This is an example flowchart of method 1100 for connecting the magnetic wheel of an encoder around the shaft of an elevator motor, based on an example. Method 1100 can generally be used in designs such as the split magnetic ring encoder 400 already discussed. Figure 5 Implemented in equipment such as )

[0044] The processing block 1102 shown provides a connection for attaching the encoder's magnetic wheel around the elevator motor shaft.

[0045] In some examples, the size of the magnetic wheel is set to fit between the elevator motor and the elevator motor support arm.

[0046] In some implementations, the magnetic wheel includes a first half-wheel that is removably coupled to the second half-wheel.

[0047] In some examples, the magnetic wheel is attached to the elevator motor shaft without removing the elevator motor support arm from the elevator motor.

[0048] The processing block 1104 shown provides a way to position the read head adjacent to the magnetic wheel. For example, the read head can be positioned adjacent to the magnetic wheel by attaching it to an elevator motor support arm.

[0049] Additional notes and examples: Item 1 is an encoder comprising: a magnetic wheel including a first half-wheel removably coupled to a second half-wheel, wherein the magnetic wheel is sized to be fitted between an elevator motor and an elevator motor support arm when positioned about an elevator motor shaft; and a read head positioned adjacent to the magnetic wheel.

[0050] Clause 2 includes the encoder described in Clause 1, wherein the magnetic wheel has an outer ring lip surrounding an inner ring disk, wherein the width of the inner ring disk is smaller than that of the outer ring lip.

[0051] Clause 3 includes the encoder described in Clause 2, wherein the width of the inner ring disk is between 5 mm and 10 mm.

[0052] Clause 4 includes the encoder of any one of Clauses 1 to 3, wherein the width of the read head is between 10 mm and 15 mm.

[0053] Clause 5 includes the encoder described in Clause 2, wherein the first half-wheel has a first semi-circular shape having a first end face at the end of the first semi-circular shape; the second half-wheel has a second semi-circular shape having a second end face at the end of the second semi-circular shape, the first half-wheel including a first opening in the inner ring disk and a first fastener housing, wherein the first fastener housing is located at the first end face and adjacent to the first opening, and the second half-wheel including a second opening in the inner ring disk and a second fastener housing, wherein the second fastener housing is located at the second end face and adjacent to the second opening.

[0054] Clause 6 includes the encoder described in Clause 5, wherein the first fastener housing has an alignment pin capable of being received within the second fastener housing.

[0055] Clause 7 includes the encoder described in Clause 5, and further includes fasteners for attaching the first fastener housing to the second fastener housing, wherein the fasteners include screws.

[0056] Clause 8 includes the encoder described in Clause 5, wherein the first opening is larger than the second opening.

[0057] Clause 9 is a method comprising: coupling a magnetic wheel of an encoder around an elevator motor shaft, wherein the magnetic wheel is sized to fit between the elevator motor and an elevator motor support arm, wherein the magnetic wheel includes a first half-wheel removably coupled to a second half-wheel, wherein the magnetic wheel is coupled to the elevator motor shaft without removing the elevator motor support arm from the elevator motor; and positioning a read head adjacent to the magnetic wheel.

[0058] Clause 10 includes the method described in Clause 9, wherein the magnetic wheel has an outer ring lip surrounding an inner ring disk, wherein the width of the inner ring disk is smaller than that of the outer ring lip.

[0059] Clause 11 includes the method described in Clause 10, wherein the width of the inner ring disc is between 5 mm and 10 mm.

[0060] Clause 12 includes the method of any one of Clauses 9 to 11, wherein the width of the read head is between 10 mm and 15 mm.

[0061] Clause 13 includes the method described in Clause 10, wherein the first half-wheel has a first semi-circular shape having a first end face at the end of the first semi-circular shape; the second half-wheel has a second semi-circular shape having a second end face at the end of the second semi-circular shape, the first half-wheel including a first opening in the inner ring disk and a first fastener housing, wherein the first fastener housing is located at the first end face and adjacent to the first opening, and the second half-wheel including a second opening in the inner ring disk and a second fastener housing, wherein the second fastener housing is located at the second end face and adjacent to the second opening.

[0062] Clause 14 includes the method described in Clause 13, wherein the first fastener housing has an alignment pin capable of being received within the second fastener housing.

[0063] Clause 15 includes the method described in Clause 13, and further includes fasteners for attaching the first fastener housing to the second fastener housing, wherein the fasteners include screws.

[0064] Clause 16 includes the method described in Clause 13, wherein the first opening is larger than the second opening.

[0065] Clause 17 is an elevator system comprising: an elevator motor including an elevator motor shaft; an elevator motor support arm coupled to the elevator motor; and an encoder coupled to the elevator motor, the encoder comprising: a magnetic wheel including a first half-wheel removably coupled to a second half-wheel, wherein the magnetic wheel is sized to fit between the elevator motor and the elevator motor support arm when positioned about the elevator motor shaft; and a read head positioned adjacent to the magnetic wheel.

[0066] Clause 18 includes the elevator system described in Clause 17, wherein the magnetic wheel has an outer ring lip surrounding an inner ring disk, wherein the width of the inner ring disk is smaller than that of the outer ring lip.

[0067] Clause 19 includes the elevator system described in Clause 18, wherein the width of the inner ring disc is between 5 mm and 10 mm.

[0068] Clause 20 includes the elevator system described in any one of Clauses 17 to 19, wherein the width of the reading head is between 10 mm and 15 mm.

[0069] Clause 21 includes an apparatus that includes means for performing the functions of any of the foregoing clauses.

[0070] All definitions used in this document should be understood to take precedence over dictionary definitions, definitions in referenced files, and / or the general meaning of the defined terms.

[0071] Furthermore, for ease of understanding, some functional blocks may have been depicted as independent blocks; however, these independently depicted blocks should not necessarily be interpreted as executing in the order discussed herein or otherwise presented. For example, some blocks can be executed in an alternative order, simultaneously, etc.

[0072] As used herein, phrases substantially similar to "at least one of A, B, or C" are intended to be interpreted as disjoint, meaning that A, B, or C, or any combination thereof, are required unless the context otherwise indicates or implies it. Furthermore, phrases substantially similar to "at least one of A, B, and C" are intended to be interpreted as combined, meaning that at least one A, at least one B, and at least one C are required unless the context otherwise indicates or implies it. Moreover, the term "substantially" or similar words requiring subjective comparison are intended to mean "within manufacturing tolerances," unless the context otherwise indicates or implies it.

[0073] As used herein, the terms “link,” “attach,” “connect,” or “operably connected” may refer to any type of relationship between the components under discussion, whether direct or indirect. For example, the terms “link,” “attach,” “connect,” or “operably connected” may refer to a functional relationship between at least two elements and may include a construction in which two elements are directly connected to each other (i.e., without any intermediate elements) or indirectly connected (i.e., with intermediate elements). Furthermore, the terms “first,” “second,” etc., are used herein for convenience only and, unless otherwise stated, do not have any specific temporal or chronological meaning. The terms “cause” or “lead to” mean directly or indirectly causing, forcing, compelling, instructing, commanding, guiding, and / or enabling an event or action to occur or at least be in a state where such an event or action can occur.

[0074] While several illustrative examples have been described herein, it should be understood that those skilled in the art can devise numerous other modifications and examples falling within the spirit and scope of the principles of the foregoing disclosure. More specifically, reasonable variations and modifications to the components and / or arrangements of the subject matter arrangement are possible within the scope of the foregoing disclosure, the drawings, and the appended claims. Alternative uses, in addition to variations and modifications to the components and / or arrangements, will also be apparent to those skilled in the art. These examples can be combined to form further examples.

Claims

1. An encoder, comprising: A magnetic wheel, comprising a first half-wheel removably coupled to a second half-wheel, wherein the magnetic wheel is sized to fit between the elevator motor and the elevator motor support arm when positioned about the elevator motor shaft; and The read head is positioned adjacent to the magnetic wheel.

2. The encoder according to claim 1, wherein, The magnetic wheel has an outer ring lip surrounding an inner ring disk, wherein the width of the inner ring disk is smaller than that of the outer ring lip.

3. The encoder according to claim 2, wherein, The width of the inner ring disc is between 5 mm and 10 mm.

4. The encoder according to claim 1, wherein, The width of the read head is between 10 mm and 15 mm.

5. The encoder according to claim 2, wherein, The first half-wheel has a first semi-circular shape and a first end face at the end of the first semi-circular shape; the second half-wheel has a second semi-circular shape and a second end face at the end of the second semi-circular shape. The first half-wheel includes a first opening located in the inner ring disk and a first fastener housing, wherein the first fastener housing is located at the first end face and adjacent to the first opening; and The second half-wheel includes a second opening located in the inner ring disk and a second fastener housing, wherein the second fastener housing is located at the second end face and adjacent to the second opening.

6. The encoder according to claim 5, wherein, The first fastener housing has an alignment pin that can be received within the second fastener housing.

7. The encoder of claim 5, further comprising fasteners to connect the first fastener housing to the second fastener housing, wherein, The fasteners include screws.

8. The encoder according to claim 5, wherein, The first opening is larger than the second opening.

9. A method comprising: The encoder's magnetic wheel is connected around the elevator motor shaft, wherein the magnetic wheel is sized to fit between the elevator motor and the elevator motor support arm, wherein the magnetic wheel includes a first half-wheel removably connected to a second half-wheel, and wherein the magnetic wheel is connected to the elevator motor shaft without removing the elevator motor support arm from the elevator motor; and Position the read head adjacent to the magnetic wheel.

10. The method according to claim 9, wherein, The magnetic wheel has an outer ring lip surrounding an inner ring disk, wherein the width of the inner ring disk is smaller than that of the outer ring lip.

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein, The width of the inner ring disc is between 5 mm and 10 mm.

12. The method according to claim 9, wherein, The width of the read head is between 10 mm and 15 mm.

13. The method of claim 10, wherein, The first half-wheel has a first semi-circular shape and a first end face at the end of the first semi-circular shape; the second half-wheel has a second semi-circular shape and a second end face at the end of the second semi-circular shape. The first half-wheel includes a first opening located in the inner ring disk and a first fastener housing, wherein the first fastener housing is located at the first end face and adjacent to the first opening; and The second half-wheel includes a second opening located in the inner ring disk and a second fastener housing, wherein the second fastener housing is located at the second end face and adjacent to the second opening.

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein, The first fastener housing has an alignment pin that can be received within the second fastener housing.

15. The method of claim 13, further comprising fasteners to engage the first fastener housing to the second fastener housing, wherein, The fasteners include screws.

16. The method according to claim 13, wherein, The first opening is larger than the second opening.

17. An elevator system, comprising: Elevator motor including elevator motor shaft; An elevator motor support arm connected to the elevator motor; as well as An encoder connected to the elevator motor, the encoder comprising: A magnetic wheel, comprising a first half-wheel removably coupled to a second half-wheel, wherein the magnetic wheel is sized to fit between the elevator motor and the elevator motor support arm when positioned about the elevator motor shaft; and The read head is positioned adjacent to the magnetic wheel.

18. The elevator system according to claim 17, wherein, The magnetic wheel has an outer ring lip surrounding an inner ring disk, wherein the width of the inner ring disk is smaller than that of the outer ring lip.

19. The elevator system according to claim 18, wherein, The width of the inner ring disc is between 5 mm and 10 mm.

20. The elevator system according to claim 17, wherein, The width of the read head is between 10 mm and 15 mm.

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