Climbing elevator system

Abstract

A wall-climbing elevator system includes a load compartment and a carriage assembly. The carriage assembly includes a set of wheels configured to frictionally engage a wall surface of a building and at least one suction system configured to pneumatically adhere the carriage assembly and the load compartment to the wall surface. Each suction system of the at least one suction system includes a skirt assembly defining a suction chamber between the carriage assembly and the wall surface and a fan assembly for creating a low pressure within the suction chamber to create a pneumatic adhesion to secure the carriage assembly and the load compartment to the wall surface.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The subject matter disclosed in this article generally relates to elevator systems, and more specifically, to wall-climbing elevator systems. Background Technology

[0002] Elevator systems are used to transport loads between floors in a building. A typical elevator system utilizes an elevator car suspended in a shaft via one or more load-bearing components, such as ropes or belts. The load-bearing components are driven by a traction device having drive mechanisms and drive pulleys fixed in the shaft, thereby moving the elevator car along the shaft.

[0003] This design limits the number of cars that can operate in the same shaft. Typical elevator systems require many additional components separate from the elevator car. Furthermore, as the lifting height increases, the weight of the required load-bearing components also increases, typically resulting in an increase in the size of the drive mechanism to lift not only the elevator car but also the associated load-bearing components. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to some embodiments, a wall-climbing elevator system is provided. The wall-climbing elevator system includes a load compartment and a bracket assembly. The bracket assembly includes a set of wheels and at least one suction system. The set of wheels is configured to frictionally engage with a wall surface of a building, and the at least one suction system is configured to pneumatically adhere the bracket assembly and the load compartment to the wall surface. Each suction system includes a skirt assembly and a fan assembly. The skirt assembly defines a suction chamber between the bracket assembly and the wall surface, and the fan assembly is used to generate a low pressure within the suction chamber to create pneumatic adhesion to secure the bracket assembly and the load compartment to the wall surface.

[0005] Additional features to one or more of the above-described features, or alternatively, may include a skirt assembly that also includes a sealing element configured to seal against a wall surface.

[0006] Additional features to one or more of the above-described features, or alternatively, may include sealing elements typically biased to seal against the wall surface in another embodiment of the wall-climbing elevator system.

[0007] Additional features to one or more of the above-described features, or as an alternative, may include a sealing element configured to be lifted from a sealed engagement with the wall surface during operation of the fan assembly to induce airflow from the environment and into the suction chamber to maintain a minimum pneumatic suction pressure.

[0008] Additional features to one or more of the above features, or alternatively, may include in other embodiments of the wall-climbing elevator system that each set of wheels is a self-driven (or self-powered) wheel, including a corresponding prime mover for driving the rotation of the respective wheel.

[0009] Additional features to one or more of the above-described features, or alternatively, may include a bracket assembly comprising a skid, and a load compartment mounted to the skid.

[0010] Additional features to one or more of the above-described features, or alternatively, may include one or more elevator mounts configured to securely attach the load compartment to the skid.

[0011] Additional features to one or more of the above-described features, or alternatively, may include one or more elevator mounting components, each comprising at least one of a biasing element and a damping element.

[0012] Additional features to one or more of the above-described features, or alternatively, may include a fan assembly comprising at least two vacuum pumps fluidly coupled to the suction chamber.

[0013] Additional features to one or more of the above-described features, or alternatively, other embodiments of the wall-climbing elevator system may include a skirt assembly including a flow guide extending inward from the skirt assembly and into the suction chamber, the flow guide being configured to control the flow of ambient air leaving the suction chamber.

[0014] Additional features to one or more of the above-described features, or alternatively, may include a skirt assembly comprising a rigid frame, a biasing element, and a sealing element.

[0015] Additional features to one or more of the above-described features, or alternatively, may include a biasing element configured to bias a sealing element into engagement with a wall surface.

[0016] Additional features to one or more of the above-described features, or alternatively, may include a skirt assembly that also includes a flow guide extending inward from the rigid frame and into the suction chamber, the flow guide being configured to control the flow of ambient air leaving the suction chamber.

[0017] Additional features to one or more of the above-described features, or alternatively, may include a sealing element comprising an encapsulated O-ring, wherein a coating is applied to the exterior of the O-ring.

[0018] Additional features to one or more of the above-described features, or alternatively, may include in other embodiments of the wall-climbing elevator system a bracket assembly that is an integral part of the load compartment.

[0019] Additional features to one or more of the above-described features, or as an alternative, may include a load compartment that is a passenger compartment of the elevator car.

[0020] Additional features to one or more of the above-described features, or alternatively, may include airfoil elements mounted to the load compartment and configured to generate drag during movement of the load compartment along the wall surface.

[0021] Additional features to one or more of the above-described features, or alternatively, may include an exhaust system fluidly connected to the suction system and used to direct exhaust air from the suction chamber to the environment.

[0022] Additional features to one or more of the above-described features, or alternatively, may include nozzles at one end of the exhaust system that are arranged to generate a thrust that acts to push the load compartment toward the wall surface.

[0023] Additional features to one or more of the above-described features, or alternatively, may include wheel configurations for traveling along tracks formed on the wall surface.

[0024] Unless explicitly indicated otherwise, the foregoing features and elements can be combined in various combinations without exclusivity. These features and elements, and their operation, will become more apparent from the following description and figures. However, it should be understood that the following description and figures are intended to be illustrative and interpretative in nature, rather than limiting. Attached Figure Description

[0025] The subject matter is specifically pointed out and clearly claimed at the end of the specification. The foregoing and other features and advantages of this disclosure will be apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 This is a schematic illustration of a wall-climbing elevator system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 2A This is a plan view illustration of a suction system for use with a wall-climbing elevator system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 2B yes Figure 2A A cross-sectional view of the suction system, such as along Figure 2A The line 2B-2B shown in the diagram is the observable line. Figure 3This is a schematic illustration of wheels for use with a wall-climbing elevator system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 4 This is a schematic illustration of another construction of a wall-climbing elevator system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 5 This is a schematic illustration of a building having multiple wall-climbing elevator systems according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Figure 6 This is a schematic illustration of another construction of a wall-climbing elevator system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and Figure 7 This is a schematic illustration of another construction of a wall-climbing elevator system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0026] This document presents a detailed description of one or more embodiments of the disclosed apparatus and methods by way of example and not limitation, with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0027] refer to Figure 1 This illustration shows a schematic diagram of a wall-climbing elevator system 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The wall-climbing elevator system 100 includes a load compartment 102, such as an elevator car, elevator hoist, basket, or other load-carrying structure or frame. The elevator system is configured to move along a wall 104 via a bracket assembly 106. The bracket assembly 106 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is configured to utilize pneumatic adhesion for attaching or attaching the load compartment 102 to the wall 104. Pneumatic adhesion, which can be achieved via a vacuum system as described herein, provides a suspension function to suspend the load compartment 102 and provides the necessary normal force and sufficient traction to suspend the wall-climbing elevator system 100. Normal forces (such as at the wheels 108 of the bracket assembly 106) will generate frictional forces that support the load compartment 102 and enable movement along the wall 104.

[0028] The load compartment 102 is supported on the bracket assembly 106 by one or more elevator mounts 110. The elevator mount 110 may be configured as a skid 112 that securely attaches the load compartment 102 to the bracket assembly 106. In some configurations, the elevator mount 110 may include springs, biasing elements, damping elements, etc., to provide shock absorption and improved travel smoothness of the load compartment 102 along the wall 104.

[0029] In this configuration, the skid 112 of the bracket assembly 106 supports the load compartment 102 on one side and supports wheels 108 on the opposite side. Each of the wheels 108 may be a push wheel with an internal motor, etc. The bracket assembly 106 includes a mechanism for creating pneumatic adhesion between the bracket assembly 106 and the wall 104. In this illustrative configuration, pneumatic adhesion is generated by one or more suction systems 114. Figure 1The illustrative side view depicts two suction systems 114. However, it will be understood that any number of suction systems may be employed depending on their specific construction (e.g., size, location, supported weight, etc.). Each suction system 114 includes a fan assembly 116, such as a suction pump, vacuum pump, blower, etc., which is arranged within or otherwise fluidly coupled to the suction chamber 118. Each suction chamber 118 is defined between a skid 112, a wall 104, and a skirt assembly 120, which may include a sealing element 122 at the contact point or area between the skirt assembly 120 and the wall 104.

[0030] The operation of the suction system 114 and the wheels 108 can be controlled by a controller 124. In this configuration, the controller 124 is mounted on the skid 112. However, it will be understood that the controller may be located on the load compartment 102 or otherwise arranged in communication with the suction system 114 and the wheels 108. In some embodiments, the controller 124 may be part of an elevator controller integrated into the load compartment 102. If the controller 124, configured to control the operation of the suction system 114 and the wheels 108, is arranged on or as part of the skid 112, such a controller 124 may be arranged in communication with an elevator controller configured to receive input from passengers (e.g., destination input). The controller 124 may include one or more batteries, power supplies, etc., for supplying power to various components of the wall-climbing elevator system 100. For example, the power supply may be used to supply power to the controller 124, the wheels 108, the suction system 114, the elevator car doors, and other electronic or electrical systems of the wall-climbing elevator system 100. It will be understood that other types of power supply units, including power rails, cables, generators, etc., may be used without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0031] To maintain the connection between the load compartment 102 and the wall 104, the skid assembly 106 is configured to generate pneumatic adhesion. Therefore, the suction system 114 can be operated to generate a continuous airflow while maintaining a minimum suction pressure. This continuous airflow can be driven by the fan assembly 116 during the travel of the load compartment 102 along the wall 104. A skirt assembly 120 (with an optional sealing element 122) is provided to ensure a seal is formed around the engagement between the suction system 114 and the wall 104. For example, a low pressure can be generated within the suction chamber 118 to create a sufficient pressure differential to generate a normal force to adhere the skid assembly 106 to the wall 104, thereby supporting the load compartment 102 against the wall 104.

[0032] Now for reference Figure 2A-2BA schematic illustration of a suction system 200 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The suction system 200 may be part of a bracket assembly and / or an elevator system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The suction system 200 is configured to be operated to generate a low pressure or vacuum pressure between the bracket or elevator car and the wall along which the bracket / elevator car will travel. Figure 2A The illustration shows a plan view of the suction system 200, and Figure 2B The illustration shows a cross-sectional view of the suction system 200 relative to the wall 202, as shown along... Figure 2A The line 2B-2B shown is what is observed.

[0033] The suction system 200 includes a housing 204 defining a suction chamber 206 between the housing 204 and a wall 202. The housing 204 may be attached to a bracket and / or an elevator car or a portion thereof, as those skilled in the art will understand. A set of fan assemblies 208, such as a vacuum pump, suction pump, blower, fan, etc., is arranged around the housing 204. The fan assemblies 208 are arranged to draw air from the suction chamber 206 and discharge it to the environment, thereby creating a low pressure within the suction chamber 206, which generates aerodynamic adhesion. That is, the suction system 200 is secured to the wall 202 by the low pressure or vacuum pressure within the suction chamber 206. Figure 2A-2B In the illustrative configuration, the fan assembly 208 is arranged on the exterior or around the edge of the housing 204. This is consistent with... Figure 1 The configuration shown in contrast is in which the fan assembly 116 is arranged within the center of the suction chamber 118. It will be understood that other arrangements of the fan assembly may be employed without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0034] Each fan assembly 208 is fluidly arranged between a suction chamber 206 defined by a housing 204 and a corresponding exhaust outlet 210. The inlet side of the fan assembly 208 can be directly connected to the suction chamber 206, or as in Figure 2A As illustrated, the suction chamber 206 can be fluidly connected via one or more suction ports 212. The suction ports 212 can be arranged to assist airflow through the suction chamber 206 and through the fan assembly 208. The suction ports 212 can be partially formed by the housing extension 214 (see [reference]). Figure 2B The housing extension 214 extends from the housing 204 into the interior of the suction chamber 206.

[0035] The housing 204 is substantially hermetically engaged with the wall 202 by means of a skirt assembly 216. The skirt assembly 216 can take various different forms or configurations. For example, a flexible skirt-like material, similar to that of a hovercraft, with rubber or synthetic flexible material, can be used, which can provide a substantially uniform engagement with the wall 202 due to pressure differential. However, more complex skirt assemblies can be employed without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0036] Figure 2B Details of the skirt assembly 216 are illustrated. As shown, the skirt assembly 216 of this non-limiting embodiment includes a skirt extension 218 extending from the housing 204. At one end of the skirt extension 218 is a rigid frame 220, such as a hoop, ring, or other structure, having substantially the same shape or geometry as the housing 204. A biasing element 222 extends inwardly from the rigid frame 220 into the suction chamber 206. At the end of the biasing element 222 opposite the rigid frame 220 is a sealing element 224. The biasing element 222 may be a spring or spring-like structure, such as a diaphragm, which is generally biased away from the housing 204 and toward the wall 202. Thus, in the closed state, a fluid seal is created by pushing the sealing element 224 into contact with the wall 202, thereby preventing fluid from flowing into or out of the suction chamber 206 around the sealing element 224. In some embodiments, the sealing element 224 may be an encapsulated O-ring. In some such embodiments, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or other materials may be used to coat or encapsulate O-rings or other structures. Optional flow guides 226 also extend inwardly into the suction chamber 206, such as blade or airfoil-type structures, guiding flow as it flows from the suction chamber 206 into and through the fan assembly 208. Such flow guides 226 can improve suction and airflow during operation of the suction system 200. As shown, flow guides 226 may extend from the rigid frame 220. In other embodiments, flow guides 226 may extend from the housing 204, or may be arranged in a structure similar to and complementary to the housing extension 214. Thus, in some embodiments, guided flow facilitated by airfoil-like structures can be provided.

[0037] In operation, the suction system 200 is configured to maintain the minimum required suction to sustain sufficient suction force to hold the weight of the elevator car (and associated load) to the wall 202. To ensure this, a biasing element 222 is selected to apply a normal force toward the wall 202 to ensure contact between the sealing element 224 and the wall 202. Simultaneously, the fan assembly 208 is arranged to provide unidirectional or one-way flow (i.e., from the suction chamber 206 outwards). Thus, in the closed state of the suction system 200, the suction chamber 206 can remain isolated from ambient fluids, thereby maintaining suction force to hold the suction system 200 and the associated elevator system to the wall 202. When movement is desired, the suction system 200 is activated, and the fan assembly 208 is operated to exhaust air from the suction chamber 206.

[0038] Until the minimum suction pressure (p) is reached suction Due to the spring force of the bias element 222, the sealing element 224 will be in the closed or sealed position. Once the minimum pressure (p) is reached... suctionThe pressure differential across sealing element 224 will become large enough to lift sealing element 224 away from its engagement with wall 202 and allow pressure from the environment (p) ambient The airflow can flow through the sealing element 224 into the suction chamber 206, while maintaining the minimum pressure (p) in the suction chamber. suction As a continuous airflow passes between wall 202 and sealing element 224, the elevator system will be able to travel along wall 202 without the sealing element 224 significantly interfering with this travel. As noted, in some embodiments, the O-ring of sealing element 224 may be coated or encapsulated to reduce sliding friction between sealing element 224 and wall 202. In the event of a change in the pressure difference between suction chamber 206 and the environment, biasing element 222 will push sealing element 224 to seal against wall 202, thereby preventing loss of suction engagement between suction system 200 and wall 202.

[0039] The elevator system described herein is constructed to be attached to a wall or other surface of a building and is capable of traveling along that surface. The aforementioned suction system (such as...) Figure 2A-2B The suction system 200 shown can be used to adhere an elevator car or related components to a surface. However, this suction does not provide the power to move the system along the surface. Instead, the system is constructed with one or more wheels, such as... Figure 1 The wheel 102 shown is an example of a wheel in an embodiment of this disclosure. The wheel can be rotated to cause movement of the elevator system along a surface / wall.

[0040] Now for reference Figure 3 A schematic illustration of a wheel 300 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The wheel 300 may be fixedly connected to a bracket or the like, or otherwise coupled to an elevator car arranged according to the present disclosure. The wheel 300 may be a self-driving wheel, wherein all components necessary for the rotation of the wheel 300 are incorporated into the structure of the wheel 300. The wheel may be configured to receive commands from a controller of the elevator car or elevator system, and a system having multiple wheels may operate simultaneously to ensure proper movement of the elevator system along the surface of the building.

[0041] Wheel 300 is driven by prime mover 304, which may be a motor or drive mechanism housed within wheel 300, about a corresponding wheel axis 302. In other embodiments, mechanical, electromechanical, or other connections may be employed between the wheel and the remote drive mechanism without departing from the scope of this disclosure. For example, in some embodiments, multiple wheels of the elevator system may be driven by a single prime mover mounted to a bracket assembly or other structure of the elevator car according to embodiments of this disclosure. However, as Figure 3As shown, wheel 300 is driven individually by a dedicated or integrated prime mover 304. In some embodiments, prime mover 304 is a direct drive prime mover, such as a hub motor. In some embodiments, each wheel 300 of the elevator system may be driven by a corresponding prime mover 304 with a torque range of 4000 Nm to 7200 Nm and a rotational speed around wheel axis 302 of less than 1000 RPM.

[0042] Without departing from this disclosure, the wheel 300 may include various additional components and features. For example, each wheel 300 may include an integrated battery or power supply unit, which may be rechargeable, rechargeable, and / or replaceable. In some configurations, a central power source may be provided on the elevator system, and wiring may be provided to supply power to each of the wheels. Such a power supply unit may also be used to power the fan assembly of the elevator system of this disclosure. Furthermore, electronics may include input / output components, control systems, circuit boards, logic boards, etc., as those skilled in the art will understand. In some embodiments, the wheel may include a braking system configured to recharge the power supply unit / power source. In some such embodiments, the power supply unit of the wheel may then be used to drive the operation of the fan assembly.

[0043] like Figure 3 As shown, the wheel 300 of this non-limiting illustrative embodiment includes a stator 306 that is rotatably fixed with a plurality of windings 308. A rotor 310 is located around the stator 306 and may be supported by bearings (not shown). When the windings 308 of the stator 306 are energized, the electromagnetic field generated by the stator 306 causes the rotor 310 to rotate about a wheel axis 302. The rotor 310 is operatively connected to a tire 312, for example, via a rim 314 or a shaft (not shown). Figure 3 In one embodiment, rotor 310 is connected to rim 314 via one or more mechanical fasteners (such as bolts), such that rotation of rotor 310 about wheel axis 302 drives rotation of rim 314 about wheel axis 302. In other embodiments, rim 314 may be configured as rotor 310. In this illustrative embodiment, tire 312 may include contact surface 316 for contacting and engaging a surface of a building (e.g., an exterior wall, elevator shaft wall, interior wall, etc.). Contact surface 316 may have a smooth or textured surface and may be selected to achieve desired frictional engagement with the building surface over which wheel 300 will travel. Tire 312 is configured to rotate together with rim 314. Furthermore, as those skilled in the art will understand, wheel 300 may include additional structures and features not directly shown, such as brake assemblies and / or damping devices, to enhance the operation of wheel 300 and / or prime mover 304.

[0044] Now for reference Figure 4This illustration shows a schematic diagram of a wall-climbing elevator system 400 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The wall-climbing elevator system 400 includes a load compartment 402 configured to travel along a wall 404 via a bracket assembly 406. In this illustrative and non-limiting embodiment, the bracket assembly 406 is integrated with the load compartment 402. In other words, the bracket assembly 406 is part of the frame and structure of the load compartment 402. The bracket assembly 406 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is configured to utilize pneumatic adhesion to hold the wall-climbing elevator system 400 to the wall 404. The bracket assembly 406 includes wheels 408 configured to generate friction that supports the load compartment 402 and enables the wall-climbing elevator system 400 to travel along the wall 404.

[0045] Each wheel in wheel 408 may be a drive wheel, having an internal motor, etc., as shown and described above. The bracket assembly 406 includes a mechanism for creating pneumatic adhesion between the bracket assembly 406 and the wall 404. In this illustrative configuration, pneumatic adhesion is generated by one or more suction systems 410. Figure 4 The illustrative side view depicts two suction systems 410. However, it will be understood that any number of suction systems may be employed depending on their specific construction (e.g., size, location, supported weight, etc.). Each suction system 410 includes a fan assembly 412 disposed within or otherwise fluidly coupled to a respective suction chamber of the corresponding suction system 410. Each suction chamber is defined by a surface of a wall 404 and a corresponding skirt assembly 414, which may include a seal at the contact point or area between the skirt assembly 414 and the wall 404, as shown and described above.

[0046] The operation of the suction system 410 and wheels 408 can be controlled by a controller, as noted above. The controller may be part of the elevator system 400, such as part of or carried on the load compartment 402. As noted above, in some embodiments, the controller may be part of an elevator controller integrated into the load compartment or otherwise integrated into the control of the elevator system 400. The fan assembly 412 is configured to generate pneumatic adhesion to attach the wall-climbing elevator system 400 to the wall 404. Therefore, the suction system 410 can be operated to generate a continuous airflow while maintaining a minimum suction pressure. Travel along the wall 404 can be achieved by driving the wheels 408, such as by using an internal electric motor, as shown and described above.

[0047] In this embodiment, the elevator system 400 is, for example, more than Figure 1The configuration shown has more aerodynamic shape parameters. The load compartment 402 can be shaped aerodynamically to provide ease of movement and reduce air resistance during movement. Mechanisms for generating propulsion are also shown in this configuration, which can be used to assist engagement and contact between the wall-climbing elevator system 400 and the wall 404. For example, as shown, each suction system 410 can have a corresponding exhaust system 416. The exhaust system 416 includes a conduit 418 that fluidly connects the fan assembly 410 to a corresponding nozzle 420 configured to generate propulsion by discharging air from the fan assembly 410. The nozzle 420 can be a fixed nozzle arranged to discharge the exhausted air 422 and generate propulsion normal to the surface of the wall 404 along which the wall-climbing elevator system 400 is traveling. In some embodiments, the nozzle 420 can be an adjustable or directional nozzle, which can be used to adjust the discharge direction and thus control the propulsion vector of the discharged air 422. The elevator system 400, as shown, includes optional airfoil 424 disposed at one (or both) end of the load compartment. This airfoil 424 can be configured to activate if the travel speed of the wall-climbing elevator system 400 increases beyond a threshold speed. In this case, the airfoil will deploy to generate drag and slow the travel speed. Depending on the arrangement of the airfoil 424 and its specific operating parameters, the airfoil 424 can also, or alternatively, be used to increase the contact force or lifting force of the elevator system 400.

[0048] Now for reference Figure 5 A schematic illustration of a building 500 having multiple wall-climbing elevator systems 502a, 502b, 502c operating on the exterior wall surface is shown. Each of the wall-climbing elevator systems 502a, 502b, 502c can be constructed similarly to those shown and described above. That is, each of the wall-climbing elevator systems 502a, 502b, 502c includes a corresponding load compartment 504a-c, a corresponding wheel 506a-c, and a corresponding suction system (not shown) for securing the corresponding load compartment 504a-c to the wall surface of the building 500. Figure 5 The illustration shows that the wall-climbing elevator system 502a-c can travel along the substantially vertical or even inverted surface of building 500. However, the suction system of the wall-climbing elevator system 502a-c is configured to generate sufficiently large aerodynamic adhesion to ensure continuous contact and retention between the wall-climbing elevator system 502a-c and the wall of building 500.

[0049] Now for reference Figure 6A schematic illustration of a wall-climbing elevator system 600 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The wall-climbing elevator system 600 includes a load compartment 602 movable along a wall 604 of a building, which may be an internal wall (e.g., an elevator shaft, utility shaft, etc.) or an external wall. In this configuration, the load compartment 602 is shown having a pair of four wheels 606 arranged on opposite sides of the load compartment 602. The wall 604 includes a channel, recess, or track 608 defining three wall surfaces 610a, 610b, 610c. The track 608 of this configuration is sized and shaped to receive the entire load compartment 602 and the associated wheels 606. The wheels 606 may be configured to engage with and travel along one or more of the wall surfaces 610a-610c. For example, as shown, the wheels 606 are configured to engage with each of the opposite wall surfaces 610a, 610b of the track 608. Wheel 606 can be configured similarly to those shown and described above, providing traction and engagement with the respective wall surfaces 610a, 610b. Load compartment 602 can be provided with one or more suction systems 612a-c for pneumatic adhesion to track 608. Suction systems 612a-c can be configured to engage with wall surfaces 610a-c, respectively. Suction systems 612a-c can be configured similarly to the suction systems shown and described above.

[0050] In some configurations, one or more of the suction systems 612a-c can be replaced with an exhaust propulsion configuration, similar to the configuration regarding... Figure 4 As shown and described. For example, in some configurations, a single suction system 612a may be provided for pneumatic adhesion to a wall surface 610a, wherein the propulsion nozzle or exhaust portion is directed toward and / or away from the third wall surface 610c towards the opposing wall 610b, such that the propulsion force is directed toward the third wall surface 610c. In further embodiments, suction systems 612a, 612b may be provided for pneumatic adhesion to opposing wall surfaces 610a, 610b, and both suction systems 612a, 612b may exhaust in a direction away from the third wall surface 610c, thereby providing propulsion in a direction toward the third wall surface 610c and maintaining the load compartment 602 within the track 608. It will be understood that in some embodiments, the load compartment 602 may be provided with wheels 606 directly attached thereto, forming an integral bracket assembly, such as Figure 4 As shown in the diagram. In other embodiments, the load compartment 602 may be mounted on a bracket and / or skid, as... Figure 1 As shown in the diagram.

[0051] exist Figure 6 In one embodiment, the entire wall-climbing elevator system 600 is housed within a track 608. In other embodiments, such as those concerning... Figure 1 and 4As shown and described, the wall-climbing elevator system can be configured to travel along a single wall surface. In yet another embodiment, one or more wheel tracks may be provided on the wall surface to define the travel path of the wall-climbing elevator system.

[0052] For example, now refer to Figure 7 A schematic illustration of a wall-climbing elevator system 700 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The wall-climbing elevator system 700 includes a load compartment 702 movable along a wall 704 of a building, which may be an internal wall (e.g., an elevator shaft, utility shaft, etc.) or an external wall. In this configuration, the load compartment 702 is shown having two wheels 706, which may be a first pair of wheels, with a second pair of wheels arranged in a straight line with the illustrated pair of wheels. The wall 704 includes two channels, recesses, or wheel tracks 708. The wheel tracks 708 of this configuration are sized and shaped to receive the wheels 706. The wheels 706 may be configured to engage with and travel along a corresponding wheel track 708 defined in the wall 704. The wheels 706 may be configured similarly to those shown and described above, providing traction and engagement with the wheel tracks 708. The load compartment 702 may be provided with one or more suction systems 710 to pneumatically adhere to a wall surface 712 defined between the wheel tracks 708. The suction system 710 can be constructed as a suction system similar to that shown and described above.

[0053] According to embodiments of this disclosure, a wall-climbing elevator system is provided. The wall-climbing elevator system is configured to pneumatically adhere to a surface of a building, such as a wall surface. The wall surface may be an inner wall and / or an outer wall. In some embodiments, the wall surface along which the wall-climbing elevator system travels may be featureless (e.g., a smooth surface), may include wheel tracks, and / or may include tracks for receiving the wall-climbing elevator system. A suction system of the wall-climbing elevator system provides pneumatic suction to cause the wall-climbing elevator system to remain on the wall surface. The wheels may be configured to generate friction or traction for propelling the wall-climbing elevator system along the wall surface.

[0054] As described above, the suction system is configured to generate pneumatic adhesion to secure the wall-climbing elevator system to the wall surface. The suction system may include a blower, fan, pump, vacuum pump, etc., fluidly connected to a suction chamber confined within a skirt assembly. The skirt assembly is configured to hermetically engage with the wall surface, allowing a pressure differential to generate suction and hold the wall-climbing elevator system against the wall. In a stopped or stationary state, the suction system can be shut off, and the low pressure within the suction chamber passively holds the wall-climbing elevator system against the wall. During operation, the suction system is activated to draw air from the environment across the seals of the skirt assembly, creating a continuous pressure differential and suction, but also allowing the wall-climbing elevator system to travel along the wall. For example, as the suction system operates, a thin film of air is drawn between the seals of the skirt assembly and the wall surface, lifting the skirt assembly away from direct contact with the wall surface. The wheels of the wall-climbing elevator system can then be operated to drive the system along the wall without damaging the skirt assembly, while simultaneously ensuring that the suction pressure is maintained to secure the system to the wall.

[0055] The skirt assembly of the suction system disclosed herein provides a seal and enables sufficient pneumatic adhesion or suction force to secure the wall-climbing elevator system to a wall surface. The dynamic skirt seal can be configured with a predetermined amount of leakage to maintain a predetermined vacuum pressure. The use of vacuum pumps, fans, etc., can be arranged to generate a low pressure (or vacuum pressure) within the pressure chamber of the suction system. These vacuum pumps or other similar mechanisms can be provided in groups, possessing sufficient suction to provide redundancy and manage the normal force requirements on the wheels. According to some embodiments of this disclosure, the active dynamic seal can be automatically adjusted based on the pressure difference between the external ambient air and the interior of the suction chamber. If the pressure inside the suction chamber drops below a predetermined suction pressure, the external (ambient) pressure will increase relative to the low pressure inside the suction chamber, thus pushing the seal to close or seal tightly against the wall surface to establish a vacuum, and vice versa. According to some embodiments of this disclosure, managed gaps or leaks through the skirt assembly and its sealing elements can exist to maintain the predetermined low pressure or vacuum pressure. The clearance will be adjusted with a sufficient safety factor to ensure that traction is not lost even when moving over small protrusions, defects or other non-smooth features on the wall surface.

[0056] The wall-climbing elevator system of this disclosure can be configured with an onboard power source, such as a battery, a rechargeable unit, a power supply unit, etc. In some embodiments, power can be supplied from an electrical bus or power rail along the travel path (such as arranged within or along a track, or adjacent to such a track). In other embodiments, wireless power, such as capacitor charging, can be employed without departing from the scope of this disclosure. In yet another embodiment, the wall-climbing elevator system can be integrated into the building's electrical system and is equipped with an automatic or quick-release mechanism that disengages when the wall-climbing elevator system is used. In yet another embodiment, the use of a battery pack or battery array or similar power storage device can be used in conjunction with a power management system. In some such embodiments, wireless or onboard electrical power (e.g., batteries) enables autonomous operation and mobility by eliminating the physical connection to the building, with the only connection being via pneumatic adhesion. The power source can be used to provide onboard power for fan assemblies, wheel operation, and onboard features such as cooling and / or air conditioning, car lighting, door operation, displays, etc.

[0057] According to some embodiments, electricity is supplied to the hub motor via an onboard storage device (such as a supercapacitor or battery) housed within the wall-climbing elevator system. In some embodiments, in conjunction with or alternative to an onboard power source, electrical power may be provided via an electric rail. The control system (such as controller 124 or part of a similar control system) may include sensors configured to control the tracking and guidance of the wall-climbing elevator system along the wall surface. In some embodiments, guide rails or tracks may be provided for braking and safety functions as well as for ride comfort.

[0058] In some configurations, the wheels may be configured to rotate in place to allow changes in direction or different directions of travel along the wall surface. That is, in some configurations, the wheels may be rotatable or may be spherical components to allow movement in more than one direction. In some embodiments, whether using the illustrated wheel configuration or a wheel configuration that allows for multidirectional movement, the wall-climbing elevator system of this disclosure can be autonomously operated with a preset travel path. Such an autonomous system can be used for emergency evacuation, etc. The autonomous version of the wall-climbing elevator system described herein can be controlled by a system controller (e.g., controller 124). The controller can be operatively connected to various sensors (e.g., optical image sensors, LiDAR sensors, proximity sensors, etc.) to enable autonomous travel along the wall surface of a building. In yet another embodiment, wheels may be provided on multiple sides of the load compartment, allowing travel along different wall surfaces. In some such embodiments, the wall-climbing elevator system of this disclosure can be used to transition or transfer from one building to another.

[0059] The wall-climbing elevator system disclosed herein can be used to replace or supplement existing elevator systems. In some embodiments, the wall-climbing elevator system is configured to operate within an elevator shaft. In this configuration, various conventional components of the elevator system can be eliminated or minimized. For example, the wall-climbing elevator system according to embodiments of this disclosure does not require elevator machinery and / or ropes, cables, or suspension devices. Furthermore, the installation of conventional elevator guide rails may be unnecessary.

[0060] In some embodiments, additional optional features may be incorporated into the wall-climbing elevator system. For example, the wall-climbing elevator system may be configured as a passenger elevator. In such a configuration, the load compartment may be configured similarly to a conventional or typical elevator car, having elevator car doors, control panels, etc. Because the wall-climbing elevator system of this disclosure is capable of traveling along a surface with an incline or can be substantially suspended, the wall-climbing elevator system may not always be oriented in the same direction (see, for example...). Figure 5 In this configuration, the passenger compartment may include a self-adjusting chair or seat within the wall-climbing elevator system. The self-adjusting seat may be equipped with gyroscopes, dampers, springs, etc., to provide an improved passenger experience during travel in the wall-climbing elevator system of this disclosure.

[0061] The wall-climbing elevator system disclosed herein can be configured as an emergency transportation system. For example, multiple wall-climbing elevator systems can be provided along the exterior of a building, and in an emergency (e.g., evacuation), people can be loaded into the wall-climbing elevator system and then safely transported to the ground without blocking stairwells, etc. Furthermore, in some applications, emergency personnel (such as firefighters) can travel from the ground (or other locations) to a desired location along the exterior of the building without having to climb stairs inside the building. The wall-climbing elevator system can be equipped with additional safety features such as parachutes, airbags, and backup suction systems (e.g., venturi-based suction).

[0062] As used herein, the terms “an,” “a,” “the,” and similar references used in the context of the specification (particularly in the context of the following claims) should be interpreted as covering both the singular and plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or explicitly contradicted by the context. The modifier “about” used in conjunction with quantity includes the stated value and has a meaning indicated by the context (e.g., it includes the degree of error associated with a particular quantity of measurement).

[0063] While this disclosure has been described in detail with reference to only a limited number of embodiments, it should be readily understood that this disclosure is not limited to such embodiments. Rather, this disclosure may be modified to incorporate any number of variations, alterations, substitutions, combinations, sub-combinations, or equivalent arrangements not previously described, provided that such modifications are proportionate to the spirit and scope of this disclosure. Additionally, while various embodiments of this disclosure have been described, it should be understood that aspects of this disclosure may include only some of the described embodiments. Therefore, this disclosure should not be construed as limited by the foregoing description, but rather by the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A wall-climbing elevator system, comprising: Load compartment; as well as Bracket assembly, wherein the bracket assembly includes: A set of wheels, configured to frictionally engage with the wall surface of a building; and At least one suction system configured to pneumatically adhere the bracket assembly and the load compartment to the wall surface, wherein each suction system of the at least one suction system comprises: Skirt assembly, which defines a suction chamber between the bracket assembly and the wall surface; and A fan assembly is used to generate low pressure in the suction chamber to create pneumatic adhesion to secure the bracket assembly and the load compartment to the wall surface.

2. The wall-climbing elevator system according to claim 1, wherein, The skirt assembly also includes a sealing element configured to seal against the wall surface.

3. The wall-climbing elevator system according to claim 2, wherein, The sealing element is typically biased to seal against the wall surface.

4. The wall-climbing elevator system according to claim 3, wherein, The sealing element is configured to be lifted from its sealing engagement with the wall surface during operation of the fan assembly to induce airflow from the environment and into the suction chamber to maintain a minimum pneumatic suction pressure.

5. The wall-climbing elevator system according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the wheels in this group is a self-driving wheel, including a corresponding prime mover for driving the rotation of the respective wheel.

6. The wall-climbing elevator system according to claim 1, wherein, The bracket assembly includes a skid, and the load compartment is mounted to the skid.

7. The wall-climbing elevator system of claim 6 further includes one or more elevator mounting components configured to securely attach the load compartment to the skid.

8. The wall-climbing elevator system according to claim 7, wherein, Each of the one or more elevator mounting components includes at least one of a biasing element and a damping element.

9. The wall-climbing elevator system according to claim 1, wherein, The fan assembly includes at least two vacuum pumps fluidly connected to the suction chamber.

10. The wall-climbing elevator system according to claim 1, wherein, The skirt assembly includes a flow guide extending inward from the skirt assembly and into the suction chamber, the flow guide being configured to control the flow of ambient air leaving the suction chamber.

11. The wall-climbing elevator system according to claim 1, wherein, The skirt assembly includes a rigid frame, a biasing element, and a sealing element.

12. The wall-climbing elevator system according to claim 11, wherein, The biasing element is configured to bias the sealing element into engagement with the wall surface.

13. The wall-climbing elevator system according to claim 11, wherein, The skirt assembly also includes a flow guide extending inward from the rigid frame and into the suction chamber, the flow guide being configured to control the flow of ambient air leaving the suction chamber.

14. The wall-climbing elevator system according to claim 11, wherein, The sealing element includes an encapsulated O-ring, wherein a coating is applied to the outside of the O-ring.

15. The wall-climbing elevator system according to claim 1, wherein, The bracket assembly is an integral part of the load compartment.

16. The wall-climbing elevator system according to claim 1, wherein, The load compartment is the passenger compartment of the elevator car.

17. The wall-climbing elevator system of claim 1 further includes an airfoil mounted to the load compartment and configured to generate drag during movement of the load compartment along the wall surface.

18. The wall-climbing elevator system of claim 1 further includes an exhaust system fluidly connected to the suction system and used to guide exhaust air from the suction chamber to the environment.

19. The wall-climbing elevator system of claim 18, further comprising a nozzle at one end of the exhaust system, the nozzle being arranged to generate a thrust that acts to push the load compartment toward the wall surface.

20. The wall-climbing elevator system according to claim 1, wherein, The wheel is configured to travel along a track formed on the wall surface.

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