Elevator with energy storage counterweight device

Abstract

The utility model belongs to the technical field of elevator structures, and particularly relates to an elevator with an energy storage counterweight device. Comprising a counterweight energy storage device, a traction machine, a traction rope and a car. The counterweight energy storage device is connected with the traction machine through one end of a traction rope, and the other end of the traction rope is connected with the lift car. The counterweight energy storage device comprises a counterweight block mounting space, a counterweight block, a motor, a bidirectional inverter and an energy storage unit, the counterweight block is mounted at the bottom of the counterweight block mounting space, the energy storage unit is mounted above the counterweight block, and the energy storage unit is electrically connected with the motor and the traction machine through the bidirectional inverter. Mechanical energy and electric energy of the elevator are mutually converted through the energy storage unit, the bidirectional inverter and the motor, the energy storage unit is electrically connected with the traction machine, the electric energy generated in the traction machine is fed back and stored in the energy storage unit, and electricity utilization cost is saved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The utility model belongs to the technical field of elevator structures, and in particular relates to an elevator with an energy storage counterweight device. Background Art

[0002] With the acceleration of urbanization and the increasing number of high-rise buildings, elevators, as an indispensable means of vertical transportation within buildings, are becoming increasingly common and important. However, elevators are not always in operation. In fact, their standby time is often much longer than their actual operating time. Even in standby mode, elevators still consume a certain amount of energy to maintain the lighting and ventilation within the cabin, as well as the normal operation of the control system. This includes the long-term operation of cabin lighting, fan operation, shaft lighting, and control and display circuits in the machine room and landings. These non-traction systems consume a significant proportion of the total energy consumption of the elevator, especially at night or during off-peak hours, making this continuous energy consumption particularly wasteful.

[0003] Traditional elevator systems usually rely on external power grids for power supply. Without special design, they cannot effectively utilize the economic benefits brought by the peak-valley electricity price difference, nor can they cope with emergency needs in the event of sudden power outages.

[0004] The Chinese patent, CN108373095B, discloses a new energy elevator comprising a nuclear battery pack, a first energy storage element, a second energy storage element, an energy-saving traction motor, and an energy-saving control circuit. The nuclear battery pack is connected to the first and second energy storage elements, which are electrically connected to the energy-saving traction motor via the energy-saving control circuit. The traction motor is connected to the car and counterweight via a speed change gearbox. The energy storage elements in this device are positioned between the counterweight blocks, which could potentially compress and damage the energy storage elements. Therefore, there is an urgent need for those skilled in the art to resolve these technical issues. Utility Model Content

[0005] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is that in the above-mentioned prior art, the energy storage element is arranged between the counterweight blocks, and the counterweight blocks may squeeze the energy storage element, thereby damaging the energy storage element.

[0006] In order to solve the above technical problems, the technical solution adopted by the present invention is:

[0007] An elevator with an energy storage counterweight device comprises a counterweight energy storage device, a traction machine, a traction rope and a car; the counterweight energy storage device is connected to the traction machine via one end of the traction rope, and the other end of the traction rope is connected to the car; the counterweight energy storage device comprises a counterweight block installation space, a counterweight block, a motor, a bidirectional inverter and an energy storage unit, the counterweight block is installed at the bottom of the counterweight block installation space, the energy storage unit is installed above the counterweight block, and the energy storage unit is electrically connected to the motor and the traction machine via the bidirectional inverter.

[0008] By adopting the above technical solution, in standby mode, the energy storage unit can power the car lighting, ventilation system and other auxiliary equipment, reducing dependence on the external power grid, thereby significantly reducing standby energy consumption, charging the energy storage battery at night or during low-peak electricity consumption, and discharging it during the day or during peak hours, saving electricity costs by taking advantage of the peak-valley electricity price difference. When the external power supply is interrupted, the energy storage unit can immediately switch to the main power supply to ensure the normal operation of the elevator's internal lighting, communication system and basic operating functions, thereby improving safety. In an emergency, the energy storage unit can also provide limited operating energy for the elevator to help passengers evacuate safely. Through the motor and bidirectional inverter, the regenerative braking energy generated during the elevator's downward or deceleration process is converted into electrical energy and stored in the energy storage unit, realizing energy recovery and reuse, further improving energy efficiency, and by rationally configuring the position and mass of the counterweight block and the energy storage unit, the balance of the entire counterweight system is maintained without affecting the original operating performance of the elevator.

[0009] Furthermore, the energy storage unit is an energy storage battery, and the density of the energy storage battery is lower than the density of the counterweight.

[0010] By adopting this technical solution, energy storage batteries, with a lower density than traditional counterweights, can be integrated into the counterweight system without adding excessive weight. This helps maintain the overall balance of the elevator system without significantly altering the counterweight's mass distribution due to the addition of energy storage devices. The low-density energy storage batteries can be more flexibly positioned above the counterweight or in other suitable locations, fully utilizing the limited space within the elevator shaft. The use of lightweight, high-energy storage batteries allows for efficient energy storage and release without sacrificing elevator performance. This not only reduces standby power consumption but also provides reliable power support in emergencies, improving the overall energy efficiency of the elevator system. The lighter energy storage batteries reduce the additional burden on the traction ropes and other mechanical components, extending the service life of these critical components and reducing maintenance costs. Furthermore, the workload on the traction motor is reduced, further improving system reliability and stability.

[0011] Furthermore, there is a total of one energy storage unit, which is installed directly above the counterweight block by bolts.

[0012] By adopting the above technical solution, the energy storage unit is fixed directly above the counterweight with bolts, ensuring a secure and reliable connection between the energy storage unit and the counterweight. This not only enhances the overall stability of the counterweight system but also reduces the risk of loosening due to vibration or movement. Installing the energy storage unit directly above the counterweight, using the counterweight as a base support, effectively prevents external objects from directly impacting the energy storage unit, providing additional physical protection. This helps extend the service life of the energy storage unit and reduce the risk of damage. This installation method fully utilizes the space above the counterweight and avoids occupying additional hoistway space. Because the energy storage unit and counterweight are tightly integrated, the overall structure is more compact, making the layout within the elevator hoistway more rational. The bolted fixing method makes the energy storage unit easy to remove and replace. When maintenance or battery replacement is required, the operator can easily remove the bolts, remove the energy storage unit, and perform necessary inspections and repairs.

[0013] Furthermore, after the energy storage unit is installed, an installation space for the energy storage unit is reserved at the top of the counterweight installation space.

[0014] By adopting the above technical solution, the reserved additional installation space provides flexibility for possible future increases in energy storage requirements. As technology evolves or usage needs change, additional energy storage units can be easily added to increase the system's overall energy storage capacity without major modifications to the existing structure. The additional space can be used to install backup energy storage units, providing system redundancy. If the primary energy storage unit fails or requires maintenance, the backup unit can be immediately deployed, ensuring the continuity and reliability of the elevator system. Increasing the number of energy storage units, especially in emergency situations, allows for more efficient energy management and utilization. For example, during low-peak hours at night, multiple energy storage units can be charged simultaneously. During peak daytime hours, these units can be discharged together to support the elevator's non-traction system energy consumption, further reducing electricity costs. The additional energy storage units can also serve as a stronger emergency power reserve. In the event of a main power outage, multiple energy storage units can provide extended support, ensuring the continued operation of essential functions such as lighting, ventilation, and communications within the elevator car, enhancing passenger safety and comfort.

[0015] Furthermore, the energy storage unit is electrically connected to the car lighting system, the hoistway lighting system and the car display circuit.

[0016] By adopting the above technical solution, in standby mode, the energy storage unit can power the car lighting, shaft lighting, and display circuits, reducing dependence on the external power grid and lowering the overall energy consumption of the elevator system. It can also take advantage of low nighttime electricity prices for charging, further saving electricity costs. The communication system and display circuits continue to operate, enhancing passengers' sense of security. In emergencies, the unit can also provide necessary information and instructions, helping passengers remain calm and take appropriate measures. With continuous power supply, the car lighting and display systems can operate normally even in the event of an external power outage, ensuring passengers' basic needs. This helps improve the overall passenger experience, especially during extended power outages or emergencies. As a backup power source, the energy storage unit can seamlessly take over in the event of a main power failure, ensuring uninterrupted operation of critical elevator systems. This redundant design improves the reliability and stability of the elevator system and reduces downtime caused by power problems. By electrically connecting the energy storage unit to the non-traction system, energy management and distribution can be more flexible. During peak hours, the energy stored in the energy storage unit can be used to support these auxiliary systems, reducing the burden on the power grid. During off-peak hours, the energy storage unit can be charged from an external power source, achieving optimal energy allocation.

[0017] Furthermore, the energy storage battery is a lithium battery.

[0018] By adopting the above technical solutions, lithium batteries have a very high energy density, which means that they can store a large amount of electrical energy in a small volume and weight. This is particularly important for elevator systems because it can maximize the use of limited space while maintaining the balance of the counterweight system. Lithium batteries have a long charge and discharge cycle life, typically reaching thousands of times or even more, making lithium batteries more economical and durable in long-term use, reducing the need for frequent battery replacement and lowering maintenance costs. Lithium batteries have very high charge and discharge efficiency, and can charge quickly and release electricity quickly when needed. This is very important for elevator systems, especially in emergency situations. Lithium batteries can immediately provide stable power support. Lithium batteries have a relatively low self-discharge rate and can maintain a high charge even if they are not used for a long time, ensuring that the energy storage battery can still provide a reliable power supply in standby or emergency situations.

[0019] The utility model has the following beneficial effects:

[0020] 1. This utility model electrically connects the energy storage unit to the car lighting system, the hoistway lighting system, and the car display circuit. This allows the elevator to be powered by the energy storage battery in standby mode, significantly reducing dependence on the external power grid and lowering standby energy consumption. Furthermore, the elevator can be charged at low nighttime electricity prices, further saving electricity costs. The energy storage unit can also recover regenerative braking energy generated during the elevator's descent or deceleration process, enabling energy reuse and improving overall energy efficiency.

[0021] 2. This utility model uses the energy storage unit as a backup power source. When the main power source fails, it can immediately switch to the main power source to ensure that the lighting, communication system and display circuit in the car continue to work. This improves the reliability and stability of the elevator system and reduces the downtime caused by power problems. In an emergency, the energy storage unit can provide limited operating energy for the elevator to help passengers evacuate safely, greatly enhancing the system's emergency response capabilities and improving passengers' sense of security and comfort.

[0022] 3. The high energy density and lightweight nature of the lithium battery in this utility model allows the energy storage unit to be compactly installed directly above the counterweight, preventing the counterweight from squeezing and damaging the lithium battery. Additional installation space is reserved above the counterweight installation space. This design not only fully utilizes limited space but also maintains the balance of the counterweight system. Bolted securely, the energy storage unit is easily removed and replaced, facilitating maintenance and future upgrades. The lithium battery's long cycle life and high charge-discharge efficiency also reduce the need for frequent battery replacements, lowering maintenance costs. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the utility model elevator;

[0024] Figure 2 This is a structural diagram of the energy storage counterweight device of the utility model.

[0025] Among them, 1-counterweight energy storage device; 11-counterweight block; 12-counterweight block installation space; 13-energy storage unit; 14-motor; 2-traction machine; 21-traction rope; 3-car. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] The present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific preferred embodiments.

[0027] In the description of the present invention, it should be understood that the terms "left side," "right side," "upper," "lower," etc., indicating orientations or positional relationships, are based on the orientations or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings and are intended solely to facilitate the description of the present invention and simplify the description. They do not indicate or imply that the devices or components referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed, or operate in a specific orientation. Terms such as "first" and "second" do not indicate the importance of a component and therefore should not be construed as limiting the present invention. The specific dimensions used in this embodiment are merely for illustrative purposes and do not limit the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0028] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, an elevator with an energy storage counterweight device, the counterweight energy storage device 1 is installed at one end of the elevator traction rope 21, and the other end of the traction rope 21 is connected to the car 3. The traction rope 21 provides power to the car 3 and the counterweight energy storage device 1 through the pulley and the traction machine 2. The counterweight energy storage device 1 includes a counterweight block 11 installed at the bottom, and an energy storage unit 13 is installed on the top of the counterweight block 11. The energy storage unit 13 uses a lithium battery. In addition, space is reserved above the energy storage unit 13 to allow additional installation of the energy storage unit 13. The density of the energy storage unit 13 is lower than that of the counterweight block 11, so it occupies a large space in the counterweight block installation space 12. Therefore, the energy storage unit 13 is installed in the counterweight block installation space 12 by bolts to ensure stable installation. A bidirectional inverter is installed between the energy storage unit 13 and the motor 14. The energy storage unit 13 is electrically connected to the motor. At the same time, the energy storage unit is also electrically connected to the shaft lighting, car lighting, and the display circuit of the elevator.

[0029] The counterweight 11 is placed at the bottom of the counterweight installation space 12, and an energy storage unit 13 is installed at the top of the counterweight 11. At the same time, a space is reserved above the energy storage unit 13 for installing the energy storage unit 13. The energy storage unit 13 is fixed directly above the counterweight 11 with bolts, and the bolts are ensured to be tightened to prevent loosening due to vibration or movement. The energy storage unit 13 uses a lithium battery, which has a lower density than the counterweight 11, so it will not significantly increase the weight of the counterweight system during installation. A bidirectional inverter is installed between the energy storage unit 13 and the motor 14. The bidirectional inverter is responsible for converting direct current into alternating current and realizing bidirectional flow of electrical energy, that is, supplying power from the energy storage unit 13 to the motor 14, and charging the energy storage unit 13 from the motor 14. The energy storage unit 13 is electrically connected to the motor 14 through the bidirectional inverter. At the same time, the energy storage unit 13 is electrically connected to the shaft lighting system, the car lighting system and the display circuit of the elevator. Ensure that all electrical connections are firm and reliable and meet safety standards. Reserve additional space above the energy storage unit 13 so that more energy storage units 13 can be added in the future if needed. Connect one end of the traction rope 21 to the traction machine 2 through the pulley, and the other end to the car 3 and the counterweight energy storage device 1. Ensure that the traction rope 21 is correctly installed and tensioned to ensure the normal operation of the elevator system. Integrate an intelligent charge and discharge management system that can monitor the power grid status, battery power and load demand, and perform charging or discharging actions according to preset strategies. The control system should also have emergency mode switching logic, which can quickly and accurately switch to the emergency power supply mode when the main power fails.

[0030] Working principle: In standby mode, the energy storage unit 13 supplies power to the car lighting, shaft lighting and display circuits, reducing dependence on the external power grid, thereby reducing standby energy consumption. The energy storage battery is charged at night or during low-peak hours, and discharged during the day or during peak hours, and the peak-valley electricity price difference is used to save electricity costs. When the external power supply is interrupted, the energy storage unit 13 immediately switches to the main power supply to ensure the normal operation of the elevator's internal lighting, communication system and basic operating functions, thereby improving safety. In an emergency, the energy storage unit 13 can also provide limited operating energy for the elevator to help passengers evacuate safely. Through the motor 14 and the bidirectional inverter 15, the regenerative braking energy generated during the elevator's downward or deceleration process is converted into electrical energy and stored in the energy storage unit 13, realizing energy recovery and reuse, and further improving energy efficiency.

[0031] The preferred embodiments of the present invention are described in detail above. However, the present invention is not limited to the specific details of the above embodiments. Within the technical concept of the present invention, various equivalent transformations can be made to the technical solutions of the present invention, and these equivalent transformations all fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. An elevator with an energy storage counterweight device, characterized in that: The invention comprises a counterweight energy storage device (1), a traction machine (2), a traction rope (21) and a car; the counterweight energy storage device (1) is connected to the traction machine (2) via one end of the traction rope (21), and the other end of the traction rope (21) is connected to the car (3); the counterweight energy storage device (1) comprises a counterweight block installation space (12), a counterweight block (11), a motor (14), a bidirectional inverter and an energy storage unit (13); the counterweight block (11) is installed at the bottom of the counterweight block installation space (12), the energy storage unit (13) is installed above the counterweight block (11), and the energy storage unit (13) is electrically connected to the motor (14) and the traction machine (2) via the bidirectional inverter.

2. The elevator with an energy storage counterweight device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The energy storage unit (13) is an energy storage battery, and the density of the energy storage battery is lower than the density of the counterweight (11).

3. The elevator with an energy storage counterweight device according to claim 2, characterized in that: One energy storage unit (13) is provided in total, and the energy storage unit (13) is installed directly above the counterweight (11) via bolts.

4. The elevator with an energy storage counterweight device according to claim 1, characterized in that: After the energy storage unit (13) is installed, an installation space for another energy storage unit (13) is reserved at the top of the counterweight installation space (12).

5. The elevator with an energy storage counterweight device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The energy storage unit (13) is electrically connected to the lighting system of the car (3), the hoistway lighting system and the car (3) display circuit.

6. The elevator with an energy storage counterweight device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The energy storage battery is a lithium battery.

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