Handrail and method of manufacturing the handrail

Abstract

The invention relates to a handrail (1) for moving walkways, escalators or the like, that can be mounted on a guide element, having a substantially constant cross-section along its profile direction (C). The handrail (1) comprises: a casing (2) which can be arranged on the guide element, and a cover layer (3) which is arranged on the casing (2). The top layer (3) comprises a thermoplastic elastomer. The invention also relates to a method for producing a handrail (1).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a handrail and a method for producing the handrail.

[0002] Handrails are used on escalators or moving walkways to provide support for a person using the escalator or moving walkway. Handrails for escalators and moving walkways are typically C-shaped profiles made of rubber or plastic. According to regulations, they must operate at escalator step or moving walkway pallet speed or no more than 2% faster and have a maximum gap to a guide of less than 8 mm. Regardless of the environmental conditions and taking into account millions of flexion cycles, the handrail must exhibit good tensile behavior, high crack resistance, and high dimensional stability.

[0003] In recent years, increased demands have been placed on the technical performance and visual appearance of handrails, coupled with increased cost pressure, which is being countered by savings in materials, complexity, component quality, and design. Due to the trend towards urbanization, more and more people must be transported ever faster on escalators and moving walkways. The operating time of the systems has increased dramatically, and many applications are operated 24 / 7. Likewise, the application and operating criteria for escalators imposed by architects and operators have become increasingly stringent, and operating conditions have become increasingly demanding. For example, escalators are installed behind large glass walls or outdoors without weather protection. Furthermore, an environment of air pollution, elevated ambient temperatures, and extreme weather events negatively impact the durability of handrails.In contrast, however, increased demands are placed on optical performance.

[0004] Furthermore, the dimensions of a handrail should remain within the required narrow tolerance range even after several years of operation. Furthermore, traction should be manageable in wet and dry conditions, and environmental contamination must not negatively impact the handrail's performance. The function of a handrail must not be impaired by cracking or abrasion, and anti-aging agents must not contaminate the surface. Furthermore, higher concentrations of nitrogen oxides in areas with high population density and heavy private traffic, high humidity, temperature fluctuations, smaller bending radii to reduce installation costs, and less maintenance, etc., further limit the performance of handrails and require improvements in handrail design, processes, and materials.

[0005] Conventional rubber handrails have one or more inner layers of rubber and fibers or fabric that improve lateral stiffness and dimensional stability. The top layer, for example, is made of an SBR polymer. All layers are joined together in a "sandwich" construction before being vulcanized in a mold. Conventional plastic handrails, on the other hand, are usually made of plastic blends.

[0006] Rubber handrails offer increased durability and good performance over their lifetime. However, in applications with elevated temperatures and ozone concentrations, anti-aging components can migrate to the surface of the handrails and contaminate users' hands.

[0007] Plastic handrails provide a glossy surface, but have disadvantages in dynamic behavior and in application on some escalator types, as they are less dynamically deformable.

[0008] Rubber handrails are currently the most commonly installed handrails. Such handrails are quite flexible in both positive and negative bending directions, exhibiting good dynamic behavior and wear resistance. However, they have limitations in high temperatures, direct sunlight, or outdoor conditions with increased ozone levels. Under such conditions, protective ingredients in the rubber handrail excessively contaminate the handrail surface, leading to negative customer feedback—especially during the summer months. Reducing the amount of protective ingredients or using other ingredients in the rubber handrail can dramatically reduce the durability and service life of the rubber handrail.

[0009] Plastic handrails have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their glossy surface. However, the increased flexural rigidity, particularly during reverse bending (negative bending), impacts the traction performance of the plastic handrail on escalators with small handrail traction wheels. A stiffer handrail requires more bending effort, leading to traction losses and higher energy consumption. Another disadvantage is an increased risk of roller breakage near the balustrade heads of the escalator and the escalator return roller, as the handrail sometimes does not follow the bending curves of the guide rollers (fewer contact points that bear the same load, increased contact pressure, and therefore a higher risk of breakage).

[0010] JP 4 376 614 B2 shows a handrail with a sliding support on which three elastomer layers are arranged. Furthermore, a reinforcing body is arranged in the first elastomer layer.

[0011] JP 2 016 193 794 A discloses a handrail with a fabric structure and a core element. Furthermore, a tension element is arranged in the core element.

[0012] JP 4 463 052 B2 shows a handrail with a surface layer and a base material, wherein the base material has a core material and a sliding portion.

[0013] JPH 0 379 588 A shows a handrail with a fabric layer, a core layer, and a surface rubber. JPH 0 379 588 A discloses a handrail according to the preamble of claim 1.

[0014] JPH 0 379 588 A shows a handrail with a fabric layer, a core layer and a surface rubber.

[0015] None of the handrails known in the state of the art offer unrestricted application even under harsh environmental conditions and the ability to ensure efficient operation. The known solutions have either one or the other disadvantage.

[0016] Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to provide a handrail for escalators and moving walkways that withstands increased demands, has an improved visual appearance, and offers new possibilities for durable and efficient operation. Furthermore, a method for manufacturing such a handrail is to be provided.

[0017] The present invention solves these problems with a handrail having the features of claim 1 and with a method for producing such a handrail having the features of claim 11. Preferred embodiments are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0018] According to one aspect of the present invention, a handrail for moving walkways, escalators or the like which can be mounted or is mounted on a guide element is provided, wherein the handrail has a substantially constant cross-section along its profile direction.

[0019] With state-of-the-art rubber handrails, applying a plastic layer is not easily possible because the bond between the handrail surface and the plastic layer would lack sufficient adhesion (holding force or adhesive strength). In other words, the adhesion between plastic and rubber is poor and does not provide the adhesive strength required for handrails. Therefore, instead of applying a plastic layer to a rubber handrail, a plastic handrail is currently used. With existing plastic handrails, no carcass is necessary, as these handrails derive their stability from the plastic material, which is significantly more stable than rubber. Providing a carcass here would be superfluous and would not offer any advantages. In fact, it would entail cost disadvantages, as processing is complex and no advantages are apparent from such a combination.Compared to known handrails, the handrail according to the invention offers the advantageous dynamic behavior of rubber handrails and the advantageous surface properties of plastic handrails. This allows the handrail according to the invention to be used on all escalators and moving walkways (even those with small bending radii) and regardless of the climatic conditions. The cover layer comprises a thermoplastic elastomer, which can be more easily applied to a carcass and simultaneously offers similar resistance to environmental influences as known plastic handrails.

[0020] The handrail extends along a profile direction with a substantially constant cross-section. This allows the handrail to move relative to a guide element in the profile direction in order to provide a person (user) standing on a moving walkway or escalator with secure support. During movement of the handrail, it can be guided by the guide element, such as a rail. The guide element allows the handrail to be positively (i.e. bent upwards) and negatively (i.e. bent downwards). For this purpose, the handrail can at least partially surround the guide element. Preferably, the handrail has a C-shape in a cross-section transverse to the profile direction, which partially surrounds the guide element. Consequently, the handrail can be mounted or mountable on the guide element. Therefore, the handrail can have a C-shape in a cross-section transverse to the profile direction.The cross-section along the profile direction of the handrail can be essentially constant or consistent. This also includes deviations due to manufacturing tolerances of up to 15%. The handrail can be divided in its cross-section into two curved end regions and a flat central region connecting the end regions. The end regions can be symmetrical with respect to an axis passing through the center of gravity of the handrail's cross-section. This makes the handrail particularly easy to manufacture. The handrail can be designed as a continuous and circumferential element without an end or beginning. Therefore, the handrail can be designed in such a way that it can be deflected and / or bent (positively and negatively) via a plurality of deflection rollers in addition to the guide element. Therefore, a slight bending (i.e.A high degree of flexibility (e.g., low bending resistance) of the handrail significantly reduces the energy required to drive the handrail. The cover layer can be located at least partially on a surface of the handrail. For example, the cover layer can be embedded in the carcass in places and, together with the carcass, form a flat surface which, for example, can be gripped by a user. In particular, it is advantageous for the cover layer to be provided on the carcass in those areas where the carcass is bent or curved in cross-section. This allows material to be saved, and it also results in the handrail feeling being pleasant to the touch. Additionally or alternatively, the cover layer can be provided as projections in sections on the carcass. For example, the cover layer can extend as band-like elements along the profile direction. The surface of the cover layer 3, which can be gripped by a user, can therefore have a structured surface.In cross-section, this structuring can be designed, for example, as curvatures. Consequently, the contact area between a user's hand and the handrail can be reduced, which can improve the user's sense of hygiene. Preferably, the cover layer is arranged on the handrail such that it covers the side of the handrail facing away from the guide element. This ensures that the handrail is reliably protected against environmental influences. In one embodiment, the cover layer can be designed to form a multiply curved surface that can be grasped by a user. The handrail can thus offer a user a particularly secure hold.

[0021] The end regions of the handrail's cross-section can, for example, have a material thickness that is 0.3 to 0.8 times thinner than the central region. It has been found that in this ratio the bending force of the handrail is advantageously reduced, while at the same time the handrail retains sufficient lateral stability. This reduces the energy required to drive the handrail and, at the same time, ensures stable guidance of the handrail, even in the event of sudden transverse forces. Furthermore, the handrail can be designed to be used with a drive roller and / or a guide roller with a diameter of less than 500 mm. A wrap angle of 100 to 270° can be achieved. This promotes the longevity of the handrail because the force per area (i.e. the tension) on the handrail is reduced.Preferably, the drive roller and / or a guide roller can have a diameter of less than 400 mm. Due to the high and easy flexibility of the handrail according to the invention, energy-efficient use is advantageously possible even with these small diameters (i.e., the above-mentioned wrap angles can also be achieved in this case). In particular, the handrail can thus be advantageously used in escalators (e.g., traffic stairs) that have a drive in the balustrade head. In the balustrade head, the wrap angle of the handrail around a drive roller is generally larger.

[0022] The carcass of the handrail can comprise at least three different layers and be designed to give the handrail stability along a profile direction and transversely to the profile direction. In particular, the carcass can have a sliding layer that can be brought into contact with the guide element. The sliding layer can minimize friction between the handrail and the guide element. For this purpose, the sliding layer can comprise, for example, Teflon or other lubricious materials. This can further reduce the energy required to drive the handrail. In addition, the carcass can comprise a tension element (tension member), which can represent an expansion brake made of steel, polymer, or carbon fibers. The tension element can absorb a tensile force, so that the maximum possible expansion of the handrail can result based on the tension element used.The tension element can ensure that elongation of the handrail in the profile direction is limited over its service life. The tension element can be provided only in the central region of the cross-section of the handrail. This allows the end regions to be manufactured easily and the overall weight of the handrail can be kept low. The carcass can further comprise at least one inner layer (for example a primary layer comprising rubber, thermoplastic elastomer, fabric or a combination thereof). Furthermore, the carcass can have a secondary layer, in particular a cover comprising rubber and / or a thermoplastic elastomer. The secondary layer can, for example, cover the tension member so that it is inserted between the primary layer and the secondary layer. The primary layer can be a layer separate from the carcass and only joined to the carcass during production.The ply can be an independent, particularly inherently stable, element (i.e., a ply is not a material applied in any way or the like). The same can also apply to the secondary ply. Therefore, damage, particularly to the sliding ply, caused by the tension member can be avoided. This ensures sufficient carcass stability.

[0023] The expansion brake (i.e., in particular, the tension element) and the sliding layer can be combined in a single layer. This allows the carcass to be designed simply, which simplifies its production. A combination of expansion brake and sliding layer is particularly suitable for relatively short handrails, where lower tensile forces occur compared to long handrails.

[0024] By providing the carcass, which is preferably designed as a sandwich construction, a dynamic behavior of the handrail can be achieved, as is known, for example, from rubber handrails. Preferably, a carcass can be used whose structure and manufacture corresponds to a carcass of rubber handrails. This avoids increasing the complexity of semi-finished products or production processes. One particular difference from rubber handrails is that a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) can be used in the cover layer. The cover layer can be applied to the carcass using conventional manufacturing processes such as compression molding, casting, dipping, spraying, painting and / or extrusion. The cover layer can be applied to one of the upper layers of the carcass.

[0025] In a further embodiment, the carcass can have at least one element projecting from the carcass, which is arranged on the side of the carcass opposite the cover layer. The projecting element can be designed as an element tapering in the direction of projection (for example, as a wedge). Furthermore, the projecting element can be designed to come into contact with a guide element on which the handrail is guided. Consequently, the guidance of the handrail on the guide element can be improved.

[0026] The surface of the carcass can be made of coated and / or treated fabric, such as cord or fibers (e.g., carbon, polyamide, polyester). Possible treatments include coatings such as resorcinol-formaldehyde latex (RFL), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), rubber, isocyanate, adhesives, etc.

[0027] If the cover layer material is transparent, the carcass could have an additional function. For example, the carcass could comprise a light source that emits a light signal depending on the operating state of the handrail (e.g. speed of the handrail, temperature). The light signal can be visible through the transparent cover layer. For example, a large number of LEDs could be provided in the carcass, which, for example, indicate the temperature and / or speed of the handrail through their light color. Furthermore, flows of people can be guided through the light source. For example, a traffic light-like light signal could be used at the entrance to the escalator or moving walkway, so that the handrail signals to waiting people when they may board. It is also conceivable to indicate the direction of movement of the handrail by displayed patterns such as arrows or the like.In addition, a light signal can indicate the distance at which people may stand on the moving walkway or escalator in order to comply with the required distancing rules. For the above-mentioned functionalities, the handrail can be equipped with sensors that can record relevant information for transmission to users. Furthermore, the handrail can be equipped with a control unit designed to control light sources based on the information obtained from the sensors. These can be temperature sensors and / or motion sensors.

[0028] The material thickness (i.e. thickness) of the cover layer can depend on the intended use of the handrail. The material thickness is preferably in a range of a few micrometers up to 12 mm. In this range, it has been shown that the handrail has the desired properties in terms of resistance to environmental influences such as UV exposure, ozone pollution, strongly fluctuating temperatures, etc., and is also sufficiently flexible to be used efficiently even with small radii of drive rollers. A particularly preferred ratio of the material thickness of the cover layer to a bending radius of the handrail is in a range of 0.005 to 0.0125. It has been found that in this range, an optimal ratio between the longitudinal and transverse stiffness and the flexibility of the handrail is achieved.This allows the handrail to be guided securely on drive rollers and deflection rollers with minimal energy expenditure to drive the handrail. In this case, the bending radius is understood to be the radius of a fictitious circle to which the handrail can adhere with a wrap angle of 100° to 270° without being damaged (i.e. without undergoing plastic deformation) and without shortening the service life of the handrail. This is particularly important when the handrail is used on compact moving walkways or escalators, as these often use very small deflection rollers and / or drive rollers. The cover layer can enable the user to hold it securely and comfortably when using the escalator or moving walkway. The above ratio of the material thickness of the cover layer to the bending radius of the handrail is particularly preferably in a range of 0.005 to 0.0075.In this area, particularly efficient operation can be achieved with handrails that have a C-shaped cross-section, as the shape of the handrail increases stability and the thinner cover layer ensures operational efficiency.

[0029] A thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) can be a special plastic that behaves similarly to conventional elastomers at room temperature, but can be plastically deformed when heated, thus exhibiting thermoplastic behavior. Other elastomers include, for example, chemically cross-linked spatial network molecules. The cross-links in such elastomers cannot be broken without decomposing the material. In contrast, a thermoplastic elastomer can be a material in which elastic polymer chains are embedded in a thermoplastic material. This allows a thermoplastic elastomer to be processed in a purely physical process involving high shear forces, heat, and subsequent cooling.Although no chemical crosslinking through time-consuming and temperature-intensive vulcanization is required like with other elastomers, the thermoplastic elastomer can exhibit rubber-elastic properties due to its special molecular structure. This can reduce the flexural strength of the cover layer. The thermoplastic elastomer has physical crosslinking points (secondary valence forces or crystallites) in some areas that dissolve when heated without decomposing the macromolecules. This makes them significantly easier to process than other elastomers. This allows the cover layer to be easily recycled after the handrail has been used, improving the overall life cycle assessment of the handrail.

[0030] The handrail can be used, for example, in moving walkways or escalators that provide continuous cleaning of the handrail surface. This can be achieved through the durable cover layer. Thus, the long service life of the handrail according to the invention can be maintained even if the handrail is continuously cleaned. Particularly as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the handrail surface can be continuously treated with UV light sources to reduce contamination with viruses and bacteria. Such cleaning devices can be installed in the return section of the escalator.

[0031] Consequently, the present invention provides a handrail that exhibits high resistance to environmental influences while simultaneously allowing efficient operation of an escalator or moving walkway on which or to which the handrail is provided. This property can be achieved by using a carcass in conjunction with a cover layer comprising a thermoplastic elastomer. This effect of the combination is surprising, since a cover layer made of thermoplastic elastomer actually requires no stabilization (for example, by a carcass) due to its high inherent stability. A carcass is typically only necessary for soft or rubber-like cover layers to provide the handrail with the necessary stability.

[0032] Preferably, the thermoplastic elastomer comprises polyurethane.

[0033] Polyurethane can exhibit different properties depending on the choice of polyisocyanate and polyol. Polyurethane can be used in an unfoamed state to increase the strength of the top layer. The density of the polyurethane can vary between 1000 and 1250 kg / m³. This allows the necessary stability of the top layer to be achieved. Furthermore, polyurethane can exhibit good adhesion to the carcass and can therefore be advantageously applied to it. Furthermore, polyurethane exhibits high resistance to solvents, chemicals, and weathering.

[0034] In one embodiment of the present invention, a cover layer made of polyurethane is provided, which has a material thickness of 1.5 to 3.5 mm, at least in the central region. The cover layer can have a Shore hardness of 75 to 85 ShA. The Shore hardness can be measured according to ISO 48-4:2018. In this case, the transverse stiffness of the handrail can be increased by at least 20% compared to a rubber handrail. In particular, the cover layer can also have the same material thickness in the end regions as in the central region. This can increase the stiffness of the end regions, which can prevent the handrail from tearing out of the guide element during operation. Furthermore, the longitudinal stiffness can be reduced by more than 40% compared to a comparable plastic handrail, since the handrail is more flexible due to the use of polyurethane. This results in fewer losses during operation of the handrail, which means it can be operated more efficiently.

[0035] The carcass has a primary layer facing the cover layer and a tension element extending in the profile direction of the handrail.

[0036] The primary layer can be an upper ply of the carcass. The primary layer can be directly connected to the cover layer. The primary layer can therefore be designed to establish the connection between the cover layer and the carcass. The primary layer can be formed from a woven fabric. In this case, the primary layer can contribute to the overall stability of the carcass. Preferably, the primary layer comprises TPE and / or rubber (e.g., a rubber composite product). In this case, an adhesive force of at least 5 N / mm² can be achieved. Furthermore, available standard semi-finished products (which are used, for example, to manufacture rubber handrails) can be used to manufacture the carcass. This allows the efficiency and effectiveness of handrail production to be maintained at a high level.

[0037] In addition to or as an alternative to treating the primary ply with the above-mentioned substances, the primary ply can have a structure on its upper side facing the cover ply. This structure can create a defined roughness. For example, the structure can include indentations (depressions) and / or holes. This can further positively influence the adhesion between the carcass and the cover ply.

[0038] Furthermore, the primary layer can be a rubberized fabric. The rubberized fabric can be vulcanized to increase the internal stability of the primary layer. Furthermore, the rubberized fabric can contain an adhesion promoter (e.g., one of the above finishes or combinations thereof) to ensure reliable adhesion of the cover layer to the carcass. Furthermore, the rubberized fabric can be swollen with substances. For this purpose, the rubberized fabric can comprise swelling substances or be swollen with substances. This can provide a reliable bond between the carcass and the cover layer. The selection of the substances to be used to swell the rubberized cover layer (especially the solvents) can be optimized using the Hansen solubility parameter system. The Hansen solubility parameters are three-dimensional solubility parameters.They comprise a dispersed component from London interactions (δD), a component from dipolar interactions (δP), and a component for hydrogen bonds (δH). Preferably, a substance is used whose parameters δD, δP, and δH lie within a range of the solubility parameters of the material of the cover layer (where the cover layer comprises, for example, polyurethane) and the carcass (i.e., the uppermost layer of the carcass facing the cover layer) + / - 4. This provides a variety of swelling substances that ensure a secure hold between the cover layer and carcass. More preferably, the solubility parameter of the substance to be used lies between the two solubility parameters. It has been found that particularly good hold between the carcass and cover layer is achieved in this range, even when the handrail is guided around rollers with small radii.Furthermore, it is preferable that the solubility parameters of the material to be used lie within a range of the mean value between the carcass material (e.g., the top layer of the carcass) and the cover layer +- half the difference in the solubility parameters between the two materials. In this case, a particularly good adhesion of the cover layer to the carcass can be achieved if the cover layer comprises polyurethane.

[0039] For reinforcement, the primary layer can have a transverse reinforcement that provides reinforcement transverse to the profile direction of the handrail. The transverse reinforcement can comprise fibers, cord, and / or a fabric. This ensures secure guidance of the handrail on the guide element.

[0040] Thus, the primary layer can be formed as an elastomer insert that completely surrounds the tension element. This offers the advantage of simplifying the processing of semi-finished products. Furthermore, damage to other elements of the handrail caused by the tension element is avoided, as it is shielded or protected by the primary layer. For example, contact between the tension element and the sliding layer can be reliably prevented without the need for an additional layer to protect the sliding layer.

[0041] Preferably, the primary layer has a fiber reinforcement transverse to the profile direction of the handrail, and wherein the fiber reinforcement preferably comprises glass, carbon, polyamide and / or polyester.

[0042] As described above, this increases the transverse stability of the primary layer and thus of the entire handrail, allowing it to be guided securely on the guide element. Preferably, the primary layer has fiber reinforcement only in the two end areas. This allows the end areas in particular to be reinforced, resulting in a high resistance of the handrail to transverse loads and preventing it from accidentally tearing out. Consequently, the handrail can be guided even more securely on the guide element, guide rollers, and drive rollers.

[0043] Preferably, the primary layer has a plurality of holes at least on its side facing the cover layer.

[0044] The holes can be recesses on the side of the primary layer facing the cover layer. This can improve mechanical adhesion between the carcass and the cover layer. Furthermore, the holes can be through-holes extending through the primary layer. This allows the holes to be manufactured more easily, increasing the efficiency of the handrail manufacturing process. Furthermore, the aforementioned advantages (structuring of the primary layer) can be achieved through the holes.

[0045] The primary layer is formed from a rubberized fabric, in particular vulcanized, and wherein the primary layer comprises chloroprene rubber, natural rubber, styrene-butadiene rubber and / or polybutadiene rubber.

[0046] Vulcanization can create a stable composite with sufficient stability. Furthermore, in addition to the primary layer, the entire carcass can be vulcanized. This allows the individual components of the carcass to be advantageously bonded together. By treating the primary layer with CR (chloroprene rubber), NR (natural rubber), SBR (styrene-butadiene rubber), and / or BR (polybutadiene rubber), a good adhesive force can be achieved between the carcass and the cover layer, especially when the cover layer comprises polyurethane. Furthermore, such a carcass or primary layer can be produced or processed on existing machine tools without structural modifications. This makes manufacturing the handrail particularly simple and cost-effective.

[0047] Preferably, the primary layer has a surface structure on its side facing the cover layer, in particular depressions in the profile direction and / or transverse to the profile direction.

[0048] The surface structure can be a structure that roughens the surface of the primary layer facing the cover layer. For example, depressions, elevations, or a combination of both can be provided. The depressions can be an example of the surface structure of the primary layer. The depressions can be in the form of elongated depressions (for example in the form of one or more grooves). Elevations can protrude away from the primary layer in the form of a material projection. Elongated depressions and / or elevations can be provided on the primary layer transversely to the profile direction of the handrail in order to ensure adhesion of the cover layer to the carcass when forces occur along the profile direction. Additionally or alternatively, the depressions can be provided in the profile direction on the primary layer in order to ensure adhesion of the cover layer to the carcass when forces occur that act transversely to the profile direction.Preferably, the recesses are inclined at an angle greater than 0° and less than 90° to the profile direction. In this case, adhesion of the cover ply to the carcass can be ensured under forces acting transversely to the profile direction and along the profile direction. More preferably, the recesses have an angle between 30° and 60° to the profile direction. It has been found that optimal adhesion of the cover ply to the carcass is achieved in this area, even when the handrail is deflected with radii of less than 400 mm (for example, by a drive roller).

[0049] Preferably, the primary layer has an adhesion promoter on its side facing the cover layer, in particular an insert with a polyurethane-friendly finish.

[0050] Adhesion promoters can be substances that create a close physical or chemical bond at the interface between immiscible materials. This allows the cover layer to be reliably attached or affixed to the carcass, even if the materials are made of different materials. In particular, the primary layer can comprise resorcinol-formaldehyde latex (RFL), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), rubber, isocyanate, and / or adhesive. Preferably, the primary layer has a finish that provides an adhesion force (also referred to as peel strength or bond strength) between the cover layer and carcass of ≥5 N / mm². This ensures that the cover layer and carcass are reliably bonded to one another over the service life of the handrail. In particular, the carcass can be treated with resorcinol-formaldehyde latex (RFL), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), rubber, and / or isocyanate, adhesives.In this case, polyurethane-coated cover layers can be advantageously attached to the carcass. If one of the above coatings is used, an adhesive force between the cover layer and the carcass of at least 5 N / mm² can be achieved. This ensures a reliable bond between the carcass and cover layer, even on handrails subject to high environmental stress. Furthermore, a chemically reactive "hot-melt film" can be used to create the bond between the carcass and the cover layer. The film can be applied to the side of the carcass facing the cover layer and vulcanized together with the carcass and the cover layer. The film offers the advantage of being solvent-free and inexpensive. Furthermore, it is quick and easy to process. This allows different materials to be easily bonded together.

[0051] Preferably, the handrail has a sliding layer arranged on the carcass so that it can be brought into contact with the guide element.

[0052] In other words, the sliding layer can be provided on the handrail such that it faces the environment (i.e., is not covered by other layers) and can thus be placed on the guide element. The sliding layer is preferably provided on the carcass. This makes it possible to simplify the work step by only having to attach the cover layer to the already manufactured carcass. As already described above, the sliding layer can reduce friction between the handrail and the guide element, thus enabling efficient operation of the handrail. The sliding layer can be arranged on the handrail such that the tension element is located between the sliding layer and the cover layer.

[0053] The carcass comprises a secondary layer so that the tensile element is inserted between the primary layer and the secondary layer.

[0054] The secondary layer can be designed in the same way as the primary layer. This allows for a symmetrical distribution of bending loads within the handrail, extending its overall service life. However, the secondary layer can be a separate layer, separated from the primary layer by another layer (e.g., the tension element). Furthermore, the secondary layer can protect the sliding layer from direct contact with the tension element. This ensures the durability of the sliding layer.

[0055] Preferably, the primary layer and / or the secondary layer comprises a fabric structure or a band structure.

[0056] This can increase the strength of the primary and / or secondary layer. In particular, the tensile strength of the handrail can be increased overall. Nevertheless, the fabric or band structure can provide sufficient elasticity so that the handrail can adapt to the guide element and / or the guide and drive rollers during operation with little energy expenditure.

[0057] The tensile element preferably comprises steel, aramid, glass fiber and / or carbon.

[0058] Accordingly, a handrail with high tensile strength can be provided, making even very long handrails possible. Aramid, fiberglass, and / or carbon fiber have the additional advantage of being relatively lightweight, which improves the overall operational efficiency of the handrail. Furthermore, these materials are easy to process with a carcass, simplifying handrail production.

[0059] According to a further aspect of the present invention, a method for producing a handrail, in particular a handrail according to one of the preceding claims, is provided, the method comprising the following steps: providing a carcass, and applying a cover layer to the carcass by means of compression molding, casting, dipping, painting and / or extrusion, wherein the cover layer comprises a thermoplastic elastomer.

[0060] This means that an existing carcass can be used to manufacture the handrail. In other words, the carcass can be manufactured separately. The carcass can be prepared, for example, by unwinding it from a supply roll. This allows for easy storage of the carcass. The carcass can be provided in a fully vulcanized state. The carcass can then be fed to a feeding device. The feeding device pre-tensions the carcass. This prevents the carcass from sagging and makes it impossible to apply the cover layer precisely (i.e., unwanted fluctuations in the material thickness of the cover layer can be prevented). The carcass can then be fed to a preheater.The carcass can be preheated so that during the subsequent extrusion, the extruded material does not cool down too quickly and thus the material bond between the cover layer and the carcass does not have the required adhesive force. With this step, an adhesion force between the cover layer and the carcass of at least 5 N / mm² can be achieved (see also the comments made above in this regard). The carcass can then be fed to an extruder. The extruder can have a cross-head to create the cover layer over the entire cross-section of the carcass. Furthermore, the extruder can have a calibration to be able to adjust the feed rate of the thermoplastic elastomer to the extruder depending on the feed speed of the carcass before the actual extrusion of the cover layer in order to achieve the desired material thickness of the cover layer.After applying the top layer to the carcass, the resulting handrail can be fed into a cooling tank. The handrail can then be treated in a haul-off process to ensure a smooth and clean surface. A foiling and / or marking step can then follow before the handrail is wound onto a drum winder.

[0061] All features and advantages of the device also apply analogously to the method, and vice versa. Individual features can be combined with other features to combine the advantages associated with those features.

[0062] The present invention will be described in detail below using preferred embodiments with reference to the figures. They show: Fig. 1 a perspective and schematic view of a handrail according to an embodiment of the present invention, Fig.2 a perspective and schematic view of a handrail according to another embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 3 a perspective and schematic view of a handrail according to another embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 4 a perspective and schematic view of a handrail according to another embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 5 a perspective and schematic view of a handrail according to a non-claimed embodiment, Fig. 6 a perspective and schematic view of a handrail according to another embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 7 a perspective and schematic view of a handrail according to another embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 8 a schematic section transverse to the profile direction of a handrail according to an embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 9 a schematic section transverse to the profile direction of a handrail according to an embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 10 a schematic section transverse to the profile direction of a handrail according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Fig. 11 a schematic section transverse to the profile direction of a handrail according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] Fig. 1 is a perspective and schematic view of a handrail 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 1 To simplify the illustration, one layer of the handrail has been cut away.

[0064] The handrail 1 comprises a carcass 2 and a cover layer 3 attached thereto. The carcass 2 comprises a tension element 6 for absorbing tensile forces, a primary layer 4 and a sliding layer 9. The handrail 1 extends in a profile direction C. A cross-section transverse to the profile direction C of the handrail 1 remains essentially constant. This enables a circumferential movement (i.e. guidance and drive) of the handrail 1 in the profile direction C. In the present embodiment, the tension element 6 (also referred to as a tension member) is made of steel. However, it can also be made of aramid, glass fiber or carbon in order to reduce the weight of the handrail 1. The tension element 6 serves, on the one hand, to provide structural stability to the handrail and, on the other hand, to absorb and transmit tensile forces. The sliding layer 9 is designed to come into contact with a guide element (not shown in the figures).The guide element can be a guide rail, deflection pulleys and / or drive pulleys of an escalator or a moving walkway on which or on which the handrail 1 is provided. The primary layer 4 covers the tension element 6 and is designed in particular to give the carcass a certain volume. Thus, the handrail 1 can be adapted to a desired dimension by varying the volume (i.e. the dimension) of the primary layer 4. In contrast, a variation of the volume of the cover layer 3 is only possible within narrow limits, since an excessive material thickness of the cover layer 3 would make the handrail 1 very rigid overall. This would increase the energy required to drive the handrail 1. Furthermore, a bending stress in a positive and negative bending direction of the handrail transverse to the profile direction C would become different in size, which would lead to disadvantages during operation of the handrail 1.The cover layer 3 comprises a thermoplastic elastomer, which ensures the entire handrail is highly resistant to environmental influences. Furthermore, the handrail 1 has a profile (i.e., the cross-section) of the handrail 1 transverse to the profile direction C, a flat central region 12 and two curved end regions 13. Thus, the handrail 1 has a C-shape in its cross-section. The end regions 13 are symmetrical with respect to an axis passing through the center of gravity of the profile of the handrail 1. For reasons of clarity, the edge regions 13 and the central region 12 are not marked in the following figures.

[0065] Fig. 2 is a perspective and schematic view of a handrail 1 according to another embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 2 The handrail 1 shown differs from the one in Fig. 1 illustrated handrail 1 in that the primary layer 4 has a surface structure 8. The surface structure 8 can improve a connection between the cover layer 3 and the carcass 2. As a result, the handrail 1 can have an increased service life overall. In the present embodiment, the surface structure 8 comprises elongated depressions that extend in the profile direction and transversely to the profile direction C. Some depressions extend straight and some are curved. As a result, the connection force between the cover layer 3 and the carcass 4 can be further increased. Thus, in the present embodiment, an adhesion force between the cover layer 3 and the carcass 2 is increased by mechanical means.

[0066] Fig. 3 is a perspective and schematic view of a handrail 1 according to another embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 3 The handrail 1 shown differs from the one in Fig. 1 or Fig. 2 The handrail 1 shown in FIG. 1 is characterized in that the primary layer has a finish 10 which increases the adhesion force between the cover layer 3 and the carcass 2. In this case, this is achieved by a chemical bond, in that at least one substance is applied to the primary layer, which interacts with the thermoplastic elastomer of the cover layer 3 such that an adhesion force of at least 5 N / mm 2 is achieved. In the present embodiment, the primary layer 4 has, for this purpose, resorcinol formaldehyde latex (RFL), at least on the side facing the cover layer 3. In further embodiments, the primary layer 4 comprises polyvinyl chloride (PVC), thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), rubber and / or isocyanate, an adhesive. Thus, in the present embodiment, the adhesion force between the cover layer 3 and the carcass 2 is increased by chemical means.In particular, a combination with the mechanical means described above is advantageous in order to further increase the adhesion force.

[0067] Fig. 4 is a perspective and schematic view of a handrail 1 according to another embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 4 The handrail 1 shown differs from the previously described embodiments in that the primary layer has holes 7 to increase the adhesion force between the carcass 2 and the cover layer 3. The holes 7 represent a further example of increasing the adhesion force between the cover layer 3 and the carcass 2 by mechanical means.

[0068] Fig. 5 is a perspective and schematic view of a handrail 1 according to a not claimed embodiment. The Fig. 5 The handrail 1 shown differs from the previously described embodiments in that the tension element 6 is embedded in the primary layer 4. The primary layer comprises an elastomer. Preferably, the primary layer is formed entirely from an elastomer. Therefore, the primary layer 4 has a high adhesion force with the cover layer 3 and can simultaneously be advantageously manufactured together with the tension element 6. In a further embodiment, the primary layer 4 has transverse reinforcements with fibers, cord, and / or fabric. Thus, the resistance of the handrail 1, in particular with regard to forces acting transversely to the profile direction C, can be increased.

[0069] Fig. 6 is a perspective and schematic view of a handrail 1 according to another embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 6 The handrail 1 shown differs from the previously described embodiments in that the primary layer 4 has a fiber reinforcement 11 transverse to the profile direction C. As with the above embodiment, this results in increased resistance of the handrail 1 to deformation. Therefore, the handrail can be guided particularly securely on the guide element. In the present embodiment, the fiber reinforcement 11 of the primary layer 4 comprises glass fibers. In other embodiments not shown, the fiber reinforcement 11 comprises carbon fibers, polyamide fibers, and / or polyester fibers.

[0070] Fig. 7 is a perspective and schematic view of a handrail 1 according to another embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 7 The handrail 1 shown differs from the previously described embodiments in that a secondary layer 5 is provided in the carcass 2. The secondary layer is provided such that the tension element 6 is inserted between the primary layer 4 and the secondary layer 5. Thus, the carcass 2 of the present embodiment is formed from the primary layer 4, the secondary layer 5, the tension element 6, and the sliding layer 9.

[0071] The secondary layer 5 can be designed in the same way as the primary layer 4. In particular, the secondary layer 5 can have the further features of the primary layer 4 of the Fig. 2 bis 4 illustrated embodiments. Thus, the secondary layer 5 can have the above-described finish 10, the fiber reinforcement 11 and / or the surface structure 8.

[0072] Fig. 8 is a schematic section transverse to the profile direction C of a handrail 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The handrail 1 essentially corresponds to the Fig. 1 shown handrail 1. In Fig. 8 The carcass 2 is shown only schematically and in a simplified manner. Furthermore, Fig.8 the central region 12 and the two adjacent end regions 13 are shown. In the present embodiment, the cover layer 3 completely covers the carcass on one side of the carcass 2.

[0073] Fig. 9 is a schematic section transverse to the profile direction C of a handrail 1 according to a further embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 9 The handrail 1 shown essentially corresponds to the one shown in Fig. 8 , with the difference that the handrail 1 of the present embodiment has a wedge 14 that projects from the carcass 2 toward the guide element. Thus, the wedge 14 can be engaged with the guide element to improve guidance of the handrail 1 by the guide element. Furthermore, this can reduce transverse loading on the end regions 13 of the handrail 1, allowing the end regions 13 to be made less strong. The wedge 14 can be formed from the same material as the carcass 2.

[0074] Fig. 10 is a schematic section transverse to the profile direction C of a handrail 1 according to a further embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 10 The handrail 1 shown essentially corresponds to the one shown in Fig. 8 The handrail 1 shown in FIG. 1 is similar to the handrail 1 shown in FIG. 1, with the difference that the handrail 1 of the present embodiment has a cover layer 3 provided with a plurality of curvatures on the carcass 2. In this embodiment, the handrail 1 also has a constant cross-section along the profile direction C. Therefore, the curvatures each extend band-like along the profile direction. Consequently, the surface of the cover layer 3, which can be gripped by a user, can have a structured surface.

[0075] Fig. 11 is a schematic section transverse to the profile direction C of a handrail 1 according to a further embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 11 The handrail 1 shown essentially corresponds to the one shown in Fig. 8 illustrated handrail 1 with the difference that the handrail 1 of the present embodiment has a cover layer 3 which, in cross-section transverse to the profile direction C, is only provided in places on the carcass 2. The cover layer 3 is provided at two points in the central region 12 as projections or bulges on the carcass 2. At four further points, the cover layer 3 is provided on the carcass 2, in particular in the end regions 13, in such a way that the cover layer 3 forms a flush or flat surface with the carcass 2 which can be gripped by a user. In the present embodiment, more than half of the surface of the carcass 2 exposed to the environment is covered by the cover layer 3. Therefore, a high degree of resistance of the handrail 1 to environmental influences can be achieved and, at the same time, a saving in the material of the cover layer 3 can be ensured.

[0076] Furthermore, individual embodiments can be combined with one another to form further embodiments. Bezugszeichenliste

[0077] 1Handrail 2Carcass 3Cover layer 4Primary layer 5Secondary layer 6Tension element 7Holes 8Surface structure 9Sliding layer 10Equipment 11Fiber reinforcement 12Central area 13End area 14Wedge CProfile direction

Claims

1. Handrail (1) mountable on a guide element for moving walkways, escalators or the like, wherein the handrail (1) has a substantially constant cross-section along its profile direction (C), wherein the handrail (1) comprises: a carcass (2) which can be arranged on the guide element, and a cover ply (3) arranged on the carcass (2), wherein the cover ply (3) comprises a thermoplastic elastomer, wherein the carcass (2) has a primary ply (4) facing the cover ply (3) and a tension element (6) which extends in the profile direction (C) of the handrail (1), and wherein the carcass (2) comprises a secondary ply (5) so that the tension element (6) is inserted between the primary ply (4) and the secondary ply (5), characterized in that the primary ply (4) is formed from a rubberized fabric, in particular vulcanized, wherein the primary ply (4) comprises chloroprene rubber, natural rubber, styrene-butadiene rubber and / or polybutadiene rubber.

2. Handrail (1) according to claim 1, wherein the thermoplastic elastomer comprises polyurethane.

3. Handrail (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the carcass (2) comprises at least three different plies and is designed to give the handrail (1) stability along the profile direction (C) and transversely to the profile direction (C).

4. Handrail (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the primary ply (4) comprises a fiber reinforcement (11) transverse to the profile direction (C) of the handrail (1), and wherein the fiber reinforcement (11) preferably comprises glass, carbon, polyamide and / or polyester.

5. Handrail (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the primary ply (4) comprises a plurality of holes (7) at least on its side facing the cover ply (3).

6. Handrail (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the primary ply (4) has a surface structure (8) on its side facing the cover ply (3), in particular depressions in the profile direction (C) and / or transverse to the profile direction (C).

7. Handrail (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the primary ply (4) has an adhesion promoter on its side facing the cover ply (3), in particular an insert with a polyurethane-friendly finish.

8. Handrail (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the handrail (1) comprises a sliding ply (9) arranged on the carcass (2) such that it can be brought into contact with the guide element.

9. Handrail (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the secondary ply (5) comprises a fabric structure or a tape structure.

10. Handrail (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the tension element (6) comprises steel, aramid, glass fiber and / or carbon.

11. Method of manufacturing a handrail (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the method comprises the following steps: - providing a carcass (2), - applying a cover ply (3) to the carcass (2) by compression molding, casting, dipping, painting and / or extrusion, wherein the cover ply (3) comprises a thermoplastic elastomer.

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