Elevator system with compensation traction means contact detection, method, and use

Abstract

For elevator systems comprising compensation means which act downwards on elevator cars, it is of great importance to be able to inspect the arrangement of the compensating means, in particular in order to prevent damage to components arranged in the elevator shaft. The invention proposes an elevator system comprising elevator cars, each of which comprises at least one compensating traction means that acts in the direction of the gravitational force, wherein the operating state of the elevator system is controlled by means of a controller on the basis of measurement values or signals of a detection unit designed to detect a change in the position of at least one of the compensating traction means. According to the invention, the operating state is controlled on the basis of at least two different types of the current contact of the corresponding compensating traction means against the detection unit, in particular in that at least one of the elevator cars is stopped. In this manner, the functionality or the functional scope can be expanded in connection with the detection of a change in position. The invention also relates to a corresponding detection and control method.

Description

[0001] Elevator system with compensating traction device contact detection and method and use

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present invention relates to an elevator system comprising a plurality of elevator cars, each connected to load-bearing traction means acting against the gravitational force and to at least one compensating traction means acting in the direction of the gravitational force. The elevator system comprises a control device for controlling the operating state of the elevator system. The elevator system comprises a detection unit configured to detect a change in position of at least one of the compensating traction means upon contact with the detection unit. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method for controlling the operating state of such an elevator system as a function of instantaneous measured values ​​or signals from the detection unit.Last but not least, the present invention also relates to the use of at least one displaceably mounted component of a detection unit for the kinematically initiated generation of at least one control command for controlling the operating state of at least one elevator car of such an elevator system. In particular, the invention relates to a device and a method according to the preamble of the respective independent claim.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] In elevator systems with compensating traction devices acting downwards on elevator cars, it is of great importance to be able to control the arrangement of these compensating traction devices, particularly to prevent damage to components located in the elevator shaft. Risks of potential snagging, breakage, or falling, particularly of compensating traction devices, must be kept as low as possible. This safety requirement also applies in particular to elevator systems in which two elevator cars (an upper elevator car and a lower elevator car) are located in the same shaft.

[0006] According to the state of the art, measures have already been proposed to monitor the displacement of compensating traction devices, in particular for detecting when a predefined displacement threshold is exceeded. An example is publication JP 2015-157663 A, which describes a detection mechanism in which a compensating traction device arranged between the elevator car and the counterweight extends around a rod and, during upward movement, can lift or remove the rod from its intended mounting, in particular to initiate a stopping process for the elevator car.

[0007] Based on the state of the art, there is a need for an improved way of detecting an undesired or unforeseen displacement of at least one (compensating) traction means.

[0008] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] The object is to provide an elevator system and a corresponding method with which the detection of a position change of compensating traction means of the elevator system and the resulting initiation of (safety) measures can be improved, in particular to prevent safety-relevant collisions of the compensating traction means with other components arranged in the elevator shaft. It is also the object to design a detection unit of the elevator system such that car-specific detection of a position change of at least one compensating traction means of the corresponding elevator car and the resulting dependent measures can be realized with respect to different situations, in particular with respect to different types of position changes of the corresponding compensating traction means.

[0010] This object is achieved by an elevator system according to claim 1 and by a method according to the independent method claim. Advantageous developments of the invention are explained in the respective subclaims. The features of the exemplary embodiments described below can be combined with one another unless explicitly stated otherwise.

[0011] An elevator installation is provided comprising at least one first (in particular upper) elevator car and at least one second (in particular lower) elevator car, wherein the first and second elevator cars are each connected to traction means acting in a load-bearing manner against the gravitational force, wherein the first and second elevator cars are each connected to at least one compensating traction means acting in the direction of the gravitational force, wherein the elevator installation has a control device configured to control the operating state of the elevator installation, wherein the elevator installation has a detection unit configured to detect a change in position of at least one of the compensating traction means, in particular at least of the second compensating traction means, in particular by contacting with the detection unit;

[0012] According to the invention, the elevator system is configured to control the operating state of at least one of the elevator cars depending on at least two different types of momentary contact between the second compensating traction means and the detection unit, in particular to stop at least one of the elevator cars (in particular, initiation of a braking process or emergency stop). This also expands the detection options; in particular, both an atypical shortening and an atypical lengthening of the traction means or its movement range can be detected, in particular with respect to at least two predefined / predefinable threshold values.Depending on the type of contact detected, different measures can be initiated, for example a standard braking action when contacting a downward-facing contact surface of the detection unit, and / or an emergency stop action when contacting an upward-facing contact surface of the detection unit, or vice versa.

[0013] For example, the safety concept described here is implemented in elevator systems configured for an arrangement of (at least) two elevator cars in the same shaft. Preferably, the elevator system is configured to control, in particular to stop, both elevator cars in the same shaft (or all elevator cars in the same shaft) depending on at least two different types of momentary contact of the second compensating traction means with the detection unit. For this purpose, the control device or a corresponding computer program can be implemented accordingly, in particular with actuation dependent on momentary sensor or switching signals. The sensor or switching signals can be generated by at least one switching unit and / or at least one sensor unit, which can also be integrated into the detection unit.It should be noted that sensory detection of the manner in which the safety measures described here are triggered is / remains optional, i.e., the kinematic actuation of the switching unit can already trigger the safety measures described here.

[0014] The present invention is based on the concept of threshold-specific detection, at least in the two vertical directions (upward and downward), based on mechanical contact and the resulting kinematic actuation, in particular a pivoting movement initiated by an upward or downward movement, which in turn causes a translationally actuated switching. It might also be conceivable to implement the detection using non-mechanical means, e.g., optical means. In contrast, however, the present purely mechanical / kinematic solution provides comparatively simple implementation and also pragmatic adjustability / adaptability, as well as the possibility of cost-effective replacement. Retrofitting can also be carried out comparatively easily by integrating the switching unit into a / the safety circuit of the corresponding elevator system.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the elevator system is configured to control the operating state of at least one of the elevator cars depending on a first type of momentary contact between the second compensating traction means and the detection unit according to a first control specification, in particular to stop at least one of the elevator cars, in particular by a standard braking process. According to one embodiment, the elevator system is configured to control the operating state of at least one of the elevator cars depending on a second type of momentary contact between the second compensating traction means and the detection unit according to a second control specification, in particular to stop at least one of the elevator cars, in particular by an emergency stop process. This facilitates a situation-specific type of response, in particular an individual safety measure depending on a detected situation.In this respect, the arrangement described here is set up not only to detect an error message, but also to analyze and differentiate between the type of error message. Preferably, both or all of the different types of error message are initiated by mechanical contact of the corresponding compensating traction device with the detection unit. Optionally, the respective control function can also be implemented in such a way that the same measure is initiated for several (both) types of detected contact, for example stopping the first and second elevator car. The specialist can choose this type of implementation, for example, if the safety requirements are particularly high, which may be individually specified by national or local regulations, for example also for specific building types.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the detection unit is configured for direction-specific contact detection with respect to at least two (spatial) directions. This not least expands the range of functions that can be realized using the detection unit.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the detection unit is configured for direction-specific contact detection with respect to at least the vertical upward direction (first type of momentary contact) and the vertical downward direction (second type of momentary contact) through bidirectional vertical detection / detectability. This also enables the direction-dependent initiation of safety-relevant countermeasures (in particular at least two different types of measures) to prevent collisions / damage within the elevator shaft.

[0018] According to one embodiment, the first elevator car (particularly when arranged above the second elevator car) is connected to at least one rope-like compensating traction means, wherein the second elevator car is connected to a chain-like compensating traction means. This enables a more expedient design of the respective compensating traction means, for example, even in elevator systems with upper and lower elevator cars, in particular in elevator systems with two elevator cars arranged one above the other in the same shaft or which can only be moved one above the other at different heights. A chain-like compensating traction means (particularly a chain), particularly for a lower elevator car, also offers the advantage of simpler positioning and guidance compared to a rope-like compensating traction means, in particular more precise guidance within a (vertical) plane (essentially a two-dimensional arrangement).The chain can be implemented as an advantageous design, especially for comparatively slow / low driving speeds.

[0019] It should be understood that the present invention can be implemented particularly advantageously for elevator systems in which a (first) upper elevator car and a (second) lower elevator car are arranged in one / the same elevator shaft. In such elevator systems, the requirements for safety measures in connection with the traction means may be particularly high, in particular since a (residual) risk may remain that the traction means of the upper elevator car will interact disadvantageously with the lower elevator car. Nevertheless, the present invention can also be implemented for other types of elevator systems (or for deviating relative arrangements of the elevator cars); this particularly also relates to the structural design and the functional scope of the detection unit and its (controlling, circuit-effective) coupling with the (central) control device of the elevator system.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the detection unit is configured to detect an exceeded upper threshold value of a free length of at least the second compensating traction means. According to one embodiment, the detection unit is configured to detect a displacement of at least the second compensating traction means below a predefined / predefinable height threshold value. This can also improve operational reliability. An excessively high free length entails the risk of contacting / damaging components arranged, for example, in a shaft pit; the detection unit described here also enables a related diagnosis and optionally also the immediate initiation of countermeasures, in particular in combination with a corresponding contact surface that can be contacted from above and a correspondingly implemented actuation / switching process.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the detection unit provides a detection Z contact line or surface on at least two sides of the second compensating traction means.

[0022] This allows a relative displacement of the compensating traction device relative to the detection unit to be monitored particularly comprehensively with regard to different operating states or (emergency) situations.

[0023] According to one embodiment, the detection unit comprises at least two encompassing detection elements mounted within or against one another, particularly in the form of U-shaped brackets, such that the detection elements, when arranged as intended (without contact), completely surround the second compensating traction means. Upon detection / contact, the formed full-circumferential contour is interrupted / released by displacing at least one of the detection elements, particularly on an upper side of the properly formed circumferential contour. This also prevents damage to the detection unit, and the detection unit itself does not impede the movement of the corresponding compensating traction means.Particularly in this context, it becomes clear that the present invention also facilitates the restoration of a standard operating state after detection / contacting has occurred, particularly since the corresponding detection element can return to its original position (in particular, it can pivot back under gravity). Thus, manual intervention, e.g., to realign a detection element, is not necessarily required. Instead, after the fault analysis has been completed, the elevator system can be returned to its standard operating state in an advantageously simple manner, for example, even remotely, i.e., for diagnosis from a distance, without the need for a technician or other skilled worker to be present on-site.

[0024] In this case, one of the detection elements can optionally be mounted so as to be movable relative to the other detection element, in particular prestressed against a gravitational force, in particular so as to be bidirectionally pivotable against at least one contact surface of a / the circuit unit. Optionally, two or more detection elements can also be mounted so as to be bidirectionally pivotable against at least one contact surface of a / the circuit unit. Preferably, one of the detection elements is mounted so as to be bidirectionally pivotable (when contact is made upwards and / or downwards) against at least one contact surface of a / the circuit unit, in particular in an arrangement on or in another stationary detection element. According to one embodiment, the detection unit completely surrounds the second compensating tension means, in particular in a rectangular shape. This also enables far-reaching diagnosis with regard to different spatial directions, and in the case of rectangular orIf an upper detection element has a straight (in particular horizontal) extension at least in sections, the height level from which detection is to take place can be clearly predefined in a simple manner.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the detection unit has at least one kinematically articulated / mounted detection element, which (upon detection / contacting) is mounted on the detection unit in a manner that interrupts a circumferential contour around the second compensating traction means, in particular pivotably mounted, in particular in switching interaction with a switching unit of the elevator system, which is preferably coupled to a safety circuit of the elevator system. This also enables the release of a compensating traction means by pivoting upwards and thereby also interrupting the circumferential contour, thus enabling non-destructive detection without influencing the configuration of the detection unit.

[0026] According to one embodiment, the elevator system comprises a switching unit which is connected in switching interaction with at least one kinematics, in particular pivoting kinematics, of the detection unit, in particular with a kinematics which pivots laterally upon contacting vertically upwards, in particular for stopping the elevator cars. Switching is initiated by vertical contacting (contacting in the vertical direction) of the detection unit (or by lifting a preferably pivotably mounted detection element of the detection unit) by the at least one second compensating traction means. This also provides a comparatively robust metrological arrangement which ensures that detection occurs as soon as the corresponding compensating traction means exceeds certain position changes (or corresponding threshold values).

[0027] The present invention can also be implemented for several elevator shafts, each with a detection unit arranged therein, in particular by coupling these individual detection units to a central control device.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the elevator system comprises a compensating traction means guide device configured to guide at least the second compensating traction means, in particular with respect to at least one horizontal spatial direction, preferably with respect to both horizontal spatial directions. This also advantageously facilitates precise positioning of a free length of the compensating traction means, such that a change in position can be detected comparatively precisely by means of the correspondingly aligned detection unit.According to one embodiment, the compensating traction means guide device comprises a first guide unit and a second guide unit, wherein the first guide unit is arranged on the side of the counterweights of the elevator system and wherein the second guide unit is arranged on the side of the second elevator car (in particular diagonally opposite one another in the elevator shaft, obliquely relative to the projection of the side edges of the base area of ​​the corresponding elevator car). This also provides an advantageous arrangement of the individual components relative to one another, in particular in coordination with other components arranged in the elevator shaft, in particular in the area of ​​a pit. Last but not least, this arrangement has also proven advantageous for minimizing the risk of contact / damage emanating from the compensating traction means.

[0029] According to one exemplary embodiment, the compensating traction means guide device is arranged in a plane defining the desired plane of movement of at least the second compensating traction means, in particular both in the region of counterweight guides and at least approximately centrally below a / the projection of the base area of ​​the elevator car, in particular on one of the elevator shaft walls, in particular with the desired plane of movement extending diagonally at an angle relative to the shaft walls. This also provides an advantageous arrangement, particularly in the overall context, e.g., with regard to space management for a first / second traction means pretensioning / traction means compensation unit. The detection unit is preferably arranged such that a detection plane defined by the detection unit is arranged at least approximately orthogonal to the desired plane of movement of the corresponding compensating traction means. This also enables an advantageous metrological arrangement / alignment.

[0030] According to one embodiment, the detection unit spans a detection plane that is aligned at least approximately orthogonally to a target movement plane defined by the compensating traction means guide device. This also facilitates the most precise possible measurement of the relative position of the compensating traction means by contacting the detection unit with at least two spatially separated edges (lines) or surfaces, depending on whether the compensating traction means moves / displaces (excessively) upwards or downwards. This detection principle can also be expanded to include additional edges or surfaces, e.g., with regard to a lateral / lateral displacement, e.g., by providing lateral detection surfaces (e.g., detection edges extending at least approximately vertically) on a frame-like circumferential contour of a detection unit surrounding the compensating traction means.

[0031] The aforementioned object is also achieved by a method according to the corresponding independent method claim, namely by a method for controlling the operating state of an elevator installation comprising at least one first (in particular upper) elevator car connected to at least one first compensating traction means and at least one second (in particular lower) elevator car connected to a second compensating traction means, wherein the operating state is controlled as a function of a / the instantaneous relative position of at least one of the compensating traction means, in particular at least the second compensating traction means, wherein the relative position or at least a change in the relative position is detected by means of a detection unit; wherein the operating state is controlled as a function of at least two different types of instantaneous contact of the second compensating traction means with the detection unit,in particular by stopping at least one of the elevator cars. This results in the aforementioned advantages, particularly with regard to a robust detection method and at least one safety measure dependent thereon and thus equally robustly implementable. According to one embodiment, direction-specific contact detection is carried out with respect to at least two (spatial) directions,in particular with respect to at least the vertical upward direction (first type of momentary contact) and the vertical downward direction (second type of momentary contact). The operating state of at least one of the elevator cars is controlled as a function of a first type of momentary contact of the second compensating traction means with the detection unit according to a first control specification and / or as a function of a second type of momentary contact of the second compensating traction means with the detection unit according to a second control specification, in particular by stopping at least one of the elevator cars.

[0032] For example, the corresponding safety measure is initiated in the following way: In the event of an improper shortening of the free length of the (sagging) corresponding compensating tension means (movement upwards), the corresponding compensating tension means touches the (circumferential) contour provided by the detection unit, in particular on an underside by moving upwards against a downward-facing contact surface of the detection unit, and by the correspondingly initiated displacement of a / the corresponding detection element (in particular translationally upwards and / or pivoting to the side), a circuit board activates a circuit unit, which transmits a corresponding signal to the control device (optionally indirectly via a communication module, in particular wirelessly),This process of displacement of the detection element can also be recorded / monitored / documented by at least one sensor of a sensor unit. A pivot joint is advantageously provided for the pivoting movement of the corresponding detection element. This also facilitates the detection of a certain extent (threshold value) of displacement. In other words: In the event that a / the corresponding compensating traction device has become caught on equipment arranged in the elevator shaft, i.e., the detection element is displaced upwards (while the switch is actuated), the detection peripheral contour is interrupted, in particular by pivoting upwards.and the compensating tension means can move upwards out of the detection circumferential contour. However, if the free length of the compensating tension means is extended (or if it breaks, fails, or falls down), a lower contact contour of the detection unit is contacted from above, and the corresponding detection element can pivot in the opposite direction and / or be displaced downwards in translation. For this purpose, a bidirectional interaction of the detection element(s) with the circuit unit can also be implemented. In this context, it is advantageous if a first detection element protrudes vertically relative to a second detection element, so that the first detection element can be moved against the second detection element.

[0033] According to one embodiment, contact detection is achieved by means of at least two detection elements mounted in or against each other. When arranged as intended (without contact), the detection elements completely surround the second compensating tensioning means. Upon detection / contact, the formed full-circumferential contour is interrupted / released by displacing at least one of the detection elements, particularly on an upper side of the circumferential contour. This also promotes sustainable and low-maintenance use of the detection unit.

[0034] According to one embodiment, at least one kinematically articulated / mounted detection element of the detection unit pivots, upon detection / contact, interrupting a circumferential contour formed around the second compensating traction means in a bearing of the detection unit, particularly during switching interaction with a switching unit of the elevator system. This also enables mechanical detection and initiation of the corresponding safety measure without adversely affecting / restricting the movement or degree of freedom of the free length of the compensating traction means.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the contact detection based on at least one (pivoting) kinematic ensures a switching interaction for the mechanically triggered stopping of the corresponding elevator car, at least in the case of vertically upward contact and optionally also in the case of vertically downward contact. This provides, not least, a very robust safety mechanism that can be implemented in a comparatively simple / lean manner for several different situations or contact types (in particular, extending or shortening the free length of the compensating traction device).According to one embodiment, at least the second compensating traction means is guided in particular with respect to at least one horizontal spatial direction, preferably with respect to both horizontal spatial directions, in particular by means of a first guide unit on the part of counterweights of the elevator system and a second guide unit on the part of the second elevator car or in a central region of a base area of ​​the elevator car projected onto the shaft pit. This reduces the risk of an atypical movement of the compensating traction means, and on the other hand, the compensating traction means or a free length of the compensating traction means can be guided as precisely as possible in free space, which can also facilitate detection of the amount of displacement of the compensating traction means.

[0036] According to one embodiment, the second compensating traction means is guided relative to the detection unit in a / the target movement plane such that the second compensating traction means passes / passes through a detection plane spanned by the detection unit at least approximately orthogonally. This facilitates, not least, the most precise detection and diagnosis of a displacement of the corresponding compensating traction means and the initiation of a safety measure, particularly as a function of the magnitude of a / the relative displacement. In other words: The detection unit can not only detect an atypical displacement as such, but also determine the magnitude of the displacement as precisely as possible, which also facilitates further differentiation / gradation with regard to the type of safety measure to be initiated in each case.

[0037] The aforementioned object is also achieved by a computer program product comprising instructions which, when executed on a computer, cause the computer to execute a method according to the present disclosure on the computer, in particular a computer program product configured to generate a control command for stopping at least one elevator car of an elevator system as a function of a direction-dependent contacting of a detection unit of the elevator system surrounding a compensating traction means of the elevator system at one of at least two contact lines or contact surfaces of the detection unit. Based on the aforementioned advantages, this also facilitates an advantageously lean implementation in existing elevator systems, in particular in combination with retrofitting a corresponding detection unit, in particular in an arrangement within one of the shaft pits.The stopping preferably takes place directly in response to the detection, in particular in response to a detection of vertical contact of the detection unit by the at least one second compensating traction means.

[0038] The aforementioned object is also achieved by using at least one pivotably mounted detection element of a detection unit for kinematically initiated generation of at least one control command for controlling the operating state of at least one elevator car of an elevator installation as a function of at least two different types of instantaneous contact of a compensating traction means with the detection unit by direction-specific contact detection, in particular by stopping at least one of the elevator cars, in particular in an elevator installation according to the present disclosure, in particular in a method according to the present disclosure.This allows the aforementioned advantages to be realized, in particular with regard to the implementation of a safety measure that can be implemented immediately during operation of the elevator system in response to at least two different atypical system states, in particular both with regard to an atypical shortening and an atypical lengthening of the free length of the corresponding compensating traction means.

[0039] Summary: In elevator systems with compensating traction means acting downward on elevator cars, it is of great importance to be able to control the arrangement of these compensating traction means, in particular to avoid damage to components arranged in the elevator shaft. The present invention provides an elevator system comprising elevator cars, each with at least one compensating traction means acting in the direction of the gravitational force, wherein the operating state of the elevator system is controlled by means of a control device as a function of measured values ​​or signals from a detection unit configured to detect a change in position of at least one of the compensating traction means. According to the invention, the operating state is controlled as a function of at least two different types of momentary contact of the corresponding compensating traction means with the detection unit, in particular by stopping at least one of the elevator cars.This also allows the functionality or range of functions associated with the detection of a position change to be expanded. The invention also relates to a corresponding detection and control method.

[0040] SHORT DESCRIPTION OF THE CHARACTERS

[0041] The invention is described in more detail in the following drawing figures. Reference numbers not explicitly described in a particular drawing figure refer to the other drawing figures. They show: Figure 1 shows a perspective side view of components of an elevator system according to one exemplary embodiment;

[0042] Figure 2 shows, in a perspective side view, details of a detection unit and a compensating traction means guide device of an elevator installation according to an embodiment;

[0043] Figures 3A, 3B, 3C each show in a perspective side view, in Fig. 3C in exploded view, details of a detection unit of an elevator installation according to an embodiment;

[0044] Figure 4 shows, in a perspective side view, details of a detection unit of an elevator system according to an embodiment;

[0045] Figure 5 shows a plan view of components of an elevator system according to an embodiment;

[0046] Figure 6 shows a schematic representation of method steps of a method for controlling the operating state of an elevator installation according to an embodiment as a function of a / the current relative position of at least one compensating traction means;

[0047] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0048] The invention will first be explained with general reference to all reference numerals and figures. Special features or individual aspects of the present invention will be discussed in connection with the respective figure.

[0049] Provided is an elevator system 100 comprising a plurality of elevator cars 101, which are moved in an elevator shaft by traction means. The elevator system 100 further comprises a central control device 102, at least one drive device 103, at least one braking device 104, and counterweights or corresponding counterweight guides 105. The respective elevator car can be held and moved by means of traction means (not shown) acting against the force of gravity; in this case, the respective elevator car is guided along the intended movement path on guide rails or similar guide devices; the traction means interact with at least one drive unit.In particular, to ensure a predefined pretension in the traction means acting against the gravitational force, a traction means pretensioning / compensation device 5 is provided, in particular comprising a first traction means pretensioning / compensation unit (movable) 5.1 and a second traction means pretensioning / compensation unit (stationary) 5.2.

[0050] In particular, to compensate for loads acting on the individual components of the elevator system, compensating traction means interacting with the elevator cars are provided, in particular a first preferably rope-like compensating traction means 1, which interacts with a first elevator car, and a second preferably chain-like compensating traction means 2, which interacts with a second elevator car, wherein the second elevator car is preferably displaced below the first elevator car within the elevator shaft.

[0051] In particular, for the safest possible operation, it is important to monitor the position of the compensating traction means in order to be able to initiate a safety measure in the event of atypical displacements. According to the invention, a detection unit 10 is provided which has at least one predefined displaceable, in particular pivotable detection element (preferably bidirectionally pivotable), wherein the displaceable detection element is preferably mounted against another detection element 12, in particular in a rotary joint 14, in particular prestressed by a prestressing element 15, in particular a spring element (e.g., prestressed in terms of amount against the leverage of the gravitational force); preferably, the displaceable detection element provides a first and a second detection Z contact line or surface 11.1, 12.1, in particular by a corresponding contact edge on an at least approximately horizontally oriented top and bottom side of the detection element. The detection arrangement can be stiffened by at least one structural element 16 (in particular a stiffening bolt), in particular by a stiffening bolt in an upper region of a second detection element that is U-shaped and open at the top. A downwardly sagging free length L2 of the corresponding compensating tension means pierces a detection circumferential contour 13 or a detection plane E10 defined thereby, in particular in an at least approximately rectangular arrangement.

[0052] A preferred mode of operation can be described as follows:

[0053] In a first direction-specific contact detection in the upward direction with atypical shortening of the compensating traction means, i.e. upon contact of the lower edge of an upper leg of a / the U-shaped detection element 11, a prestressed contact plate 21 of a switching unit 20 is actuated by a pivoting movement of the detection element 11, and the switching unit 20 generates a switching signal, and a first control specification relating to at least one elevator car is generated (in particular by means of the central control device 102);in a second direction-specific contact detection in the downward direction with an atypical extension of the compensating traction means, i.e. upon contact of the upper edge of a lower leg of a / the U-shaped detection element 11, the prestressed contact plate 21 is actuated by an opposite pivoting movement of the detection element 11 and a switching signal is generated, and a second control specification relating to at least one elevator car is generated;Preferably, at least one elevator car or all of the elevator cars arranged in the corresponding elevator shaft are stopped, in particular in a first way or in a second way. The respective contacting process, e.g. the size and / or speed of the displacement of the detection element 11, can also be detected by means of a sensor unit 40 preferably provided in the region of the circuit unit 20 and documented accordingly and optionally also processed in connection with the generation of the control specification.;

[0054] The movably mounted detection element 11 is preferably U-shaped and is mounted with the central web around the pivot 14 in the manner of a rocker against at least one switching contact of the switching unit 20, in particular against a bidirectionally measuring / detecting switching contact (e.g. a bidirectionally translationally displaceable pin or the like). At least one adjustment marking 11.2 is preferably arranged on the movably mounted detection element 11 and / or on a further detection element 12, by means of which adjustment marking 11.2 can be facilitated. The adjustment marking 11.2 is preferably arranged halfway up the detection unit 10 or halfway up the U-shaped first detection element 11; when installing the detection unit 10, care can be taken to ensure that the compensating tension means 2 is moved in the desired position up to this halfway up the height orPosition sags, i.e., is arranged centrally with respect to the vertical extent of the detection circumferential contour 13, so that approximately half the path length can be traversed both in the upward and downward directions before the detection threshold is reached. From this consideration, it also emerges that the present invention, thanks to the mechanical structure and the provided pivoting kinematics, can be adapted to system-specific features in a comparatively simple manner, and can also be replaced in a simple and cost-effective manner in the event of unforeseeable damage (e.g., caused by the compensating traction device).In this respect, it does not appear necessary to design the detection unit to be extremely robust and resistant to falling compensating traction devices; rather, in the event of damage, which is expected to be very rare, the detection unit can be quickly and cost-effectively replaced or repaired.

[0055] Advantageously, at least one of the compensating traction means is guided in at least one spatial direction by means of a compensating traction means guide device 30, in particular both in a first guide unit 31 and in a second guide unit 32, preferably with respect to both horizontal spatial directions. Advantageously, the compensating traction means guide device 30 defines a desired movement plane E2 for the corresponding compensating traction means, in particular for a chain-like compensating traction means in cooperation with a lower elevator car, and the desired movement plane E2 is preferably aligned at least approximately orthogonally to a detection plane E10 defined by the detection unit 10.

[0056] The walls of an elevator shaft are aligned along a first and second horizontal direction x, y, and the detection plane E10 and the target movement plane E2 preferably extend obliquely thereto in the vertical direction z. This also provides an advantageous arrangement of the components described here in the elevator shaft, also in relation to one another.

[0057] Fig. 1 shows a shaft pit of an elevator system 100, wherein first and second compensating traction means are arranged such that a first elevator car (not shown) coupled to the first compensating traction means 1 can be displaced above a second elevator car (not shown) coupled to the second compensating traction means 2 without the first compensating traction means 1 colliding with the second / lower elevator car. For this purpose, the corresponding traction means pretensioning / traction means compensation units 5.1, 5.2 are advantageously aligned and arranged as shown.

[0058] In Fig. 1, the first compensating traction means 1 are shown merely as an example for the sake of completeness; depending on the relative arrangement of the first and second elevator cars, the first compensating traction means 1 can also be arranged in a completely different position, in particular further above (i.e., they might not extend all the way down into the shaft pit and might not even be visible in the image section shown in Fig. 1). However, for good accessibility and minimal space requirements in terms of width, it has proven advantageous to also extend the first compensating traction means 1 into the shaft pit.

[0059] In Fig. 2, an advantageous relative position / orientation of the detection unit 10 relative to the second compensating traction means 2 or relative to the position / orientation of the compensating traction means guide device 30 with first and second guide units 31, 32 is shown.

[0060] An advantageous embodiment of the detection unit 10 is illustrated in detail in Fig. 3. In Fig. 3A, the detection unit 10 is shown in a zero position (no contact / actuation). In Fig. 3B, the detection unit 10 is shown in a pivoted-out position (contact / actuation by pressure force from below against the edge 11.1, in particular in the case of atypical shortening of the corresponding compensating tension means). In Fig. 3C, the individual components of the detection unit 10 and their installation position can be seen in an exploded view. On one of the detection elements, in particular on the pivotably displaceable detection element 11, an adjustment marking 11.2 can be provided, e.g., a notch, by means of which adjustment of the alignment of the corresponding detection element relative to another detection element is facilitated, e.g., based on a visual inspection.

[0061] The detection unit 10 detects an atypical displacement of the corresponding compensating tension member in the vertical direction upwards and / or downwards. The structure shown in Figure 3 also shows that the detection unit is advantageously designed to be robust and insensitive with regard to any risk of the corresponding compensating tension member striking / making contact with the peripheral contour. Thanks to the compensating tension member guide device described here, lateral contact is not to be expected, but the detection unit is nevertheless sufficiently robust in this regard.

[0062] The upwardly pivoted relative position of the first detection element 11 shown in Fig. 3B can also be implemented as a locking position, in which the detection element 11 remains and can, for example, be manually reset. This is because, in the event of the detection unit triggering the safety measures described here, subsequent maintenance / inspection measures are required anyway, particularly in the area of ​​the shaft pit, so the locking position offers further advantages in terms of simple, cost-effective, and robust implementation.

[0063] Fig. 4 illustrates an embodiment of the detection unit 10 stiffened by a structural element 16 (in particular stiffening bolts).

[0064] Fig. 5 shows a top view of the relative position / orientation of the individual components provided in the shaft pit, supplementing the illustration in Fig. 1. The position of components 101, 102, 103, 104, 105 shown in Fig. 5 is merely an example; a person skilled in the art can arrange and couple these components individually depending on the specific features of the respective elevator system. Fig. 6 illustrates steps of a method for controlling the operating state of an elevator system depending on the current relative position of at least one compensating traction device.

[0065] Step S1 detecting the relative position or at least a change in the relative position of the compensating traction means by means of a detection unit;

[0066] Step S2: Generating a (first) control specification as a function of a first type of instantaneous contact (e.g. direction-specific contact detection of a contact in the upward direction, in particular in the case of an atypical shortening of the compensating tension means) of the second compensating tension means with the detection unit, or generating a (second) control specification as a function of a second type of instantaneous contact (e.g. direction-specific contact detection of a contact in the downward direction, in particular in the case of an atypical lengthening of the compensating tension means) of the second compensating tension means with the detection unit;

[0067] Step S3 controlling the operating state depending on (the) at least two different types of momentary contact of the second compensating traction means with the detection unit, in particular by stopping at least one elevator car, in particular by stopping in a first way or by stopping in a second way;

[0068] In Fig. 6, reference symbols of the components particularly involved / involvable in each process step are also indicated for each process step (not listed exhaustively).

[0069] It should be noted that the described embodiments are merely examples that can be modified and / or supplemented in a variety of ways within the scope of the claims. Each feature described for a specific embodiment can be used independently or in combination with other features in any other embodiment. Each feature described for an embodiment of a specific claim category can also be used correspondingly in an embodiment of another claim category, unless explicitly denied here. List of reference symbols

[0070] 1 first compensating traction device (especially rope-like)

[0071] 2 second compensating traction device (especially chain-like)

[0072] 5 Tensioning / compensation device

[0073] 5.1 first traction mechanism pre-tensioning / tension mechanism compensation unit (movable)

[0074] 5.2 second tensioning / compensation unit (stationary)

[0075] 10 detection unit

[0076] 11, 12 first and second detection element

[0077] 11.1, 12.1 first and second detection / contact line or area (activation contour, trigger edge)

[0078] 11.2 Setting mark

[0079] 13 Detection circumference contour

[0080] 14 Swivel joint

[0081] 15 Preload element, in particular spring element

[0082] 16 Structural element, in particular stiffening bolts

[0083] 20 circuit unit

[0084] 21 movable contact plate, in particular pivotally mounted as a rocker against at least one switching contact

[0085] 30 Compensating traction mechanism guide device

[0086] 31, 32 first and second guide unit

[0087] 40 Sensor unit

[0088] 100 elevator system

[0089] 101 elevator car

[0090] 102 Control device

[0091] 103 Drive device

[0092] 104 Braking device

[0093] 105 Counterweight or corresponding counterweight guide

[0094] E2 Target movement plane

[0095] E10 detection level

[0096] L2 free length of the second compensating tension means x, y first and second horizontal direction z vertical direction

Claims

Patent claims 1. Elevator installation (100) comprising at least one first elevator car (101) and at least one second elevator car, wherein the first and second elevator cars (101) are each connected to traction means acting in a load-bearing manner against the gravitational force, wherein the first and second elevator cars (101) are each connected to at least one compensating traction means (1, 2) acting in the direction of the gravitational force, wherein the elevator installation (100) has a control device (102) configured to control the operating state of the elevator installation (100), wherein the elevator installation (100) has a detection unit (10) configured to detect a change in position of at least one of the compensating traction means (1, 2), in particular by contacting the detection unit (10);characterized in that the elevator installation (100) is designed to control the operating state of at least one of the elevator cars (101) as a function of at least two different types of momentary contact of a / the second compensating traction means (2) with the detection unit (10), in particular to stop at least one of the elevator cars (101); 2. Elevator system according to claim 1, wherein the elevator system is configured to control the operating state of at least one of the elevator cars depending on a first type of momentary contact of the second compensating traction means with the detection unit according to a first control specification, in particular to stop at least one of the elevator cars; and / or wherein the elevator system is configured to control the operating state of at least one of the elevator cars depending on a second type of momentary contact of the second compensating traction means with the detection unit according to a second control specification, in particular to stop at least one of the elevator cars.

3. Elevator installation according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the detection unit is configured for direction-specific contact detection with respect to at least two (spatial) directions; and / or wherein the detection unit is configured for direction-specific contact detection with respect to at least the vertical upward direction and vertical downward direction, in particular designed for bidirectional vertical detection.

4. Elevator installation according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first elevator car is connected to at least one rope-like compensating traction means, wherein the second elevator car is connected to a chain-like compensating traction means, in particular with the first and second elevator cars in an arrangement one above the other in the same elevator shaft.

5. Elevator system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the detection unit is configured to detect an exceeded upper threshold value of a free length of at least the second compensating traction means; and / or wherein the detection unit is configured to detect a displacement of at least the second compensating traction means below a predefined / predefinable height threshold value; and / or wherein the detection unit provides a detection / contact line or surface on at least two sides of the second compensating traction means.

6. Elevator system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the detection unit has at least two encompassing detection elements mounted in / on one another, in particular in the form of U-shaped brackets, such that the detection elements, when arranged as intended, completely surround the second compensating tension means, and upon detection / contacting, the formed complete circumferential contour is interrupted / released by displacement of at least one of the detection elements, in particular on an upper side of the circumferential contour.

7. Elevator system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the detection unit completely surrounds the second compensating traction means, in particular rectangularly; and / or wherein the detection unit has at least one kinematically articulated / mounted detection element, which is mounted on the detection unit in a manner interrupting a circumferential contour around the second compensating traction means, in particular is pivotally mounted, in particular in switching interaction with a switching unit preferably coupled to a safety circuit of the elevator system.

8. Elevator installation according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the elevator installation has a switching unit which is connected in switching interaction with at least one kinematics of the detection unit, in particular with a kinematics which swings out laterally when contact is made vertically upwards, in particular for switching which brings about a stopping of the elevator cars, initiated by a vertical contact of the detection unit by the at least one second compensating traction means.

9. Elevator installation according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the elevator installation has a compensating traction means guide device which is configured to guide at least the second compensating traction means, in particular with respect to at least one horizontal spatial direction, preferably with respect to both horizontal spatial directions; and / or wherein the compensating traction means guide device has a first guide unit and a second guide unit, wherein the first guide unit is arranged on the side of counterweights of the elevator installation and wherein the second guide unit is arranged on the side of the second elevator car; and / or wherein the compensating traction means guide device is arranged in a plane defining the desired movement plane of at least the second compensating traction means;and / or wherein the detection unit spans a detection plane which is aligned at least approximately orthogonal to a desired movement plane defined by the compensating traction means guide device; 10. Method for controlling the operating state of an elevator installation (100) comprising at least one first elevator car (101) connected to at least one first compensating traction means (1) and at least one second elevator car connected to a second compensating traction means (2), wherein the operating state is controlled as a function of a / the instantaneous relative position of at least one of the compensating traction means (1, 2), in particular at least of the second compensating traction means (2), wherein the relative position or at least a change in the relative position is detected by means of a detection unit (10); characterized in that the operating state is controlled as a function of at least two different types of instantaneous contact of the second Compensating traction means (2) is controlled by the detection unit (10), in particular by stopping at least one of the elevator cars (101).

11. Method according to the preceding method claim, wherein a direction-specific contact detection takes place with respect to at least two (spatial) directions, in particular with respect to at least the vertical direction upwards and the vertical direction downwards, wherein the operating state of at least one of the elevator cars is controlled as a function of a first type of momentary contact of the second compensating traction means with the detection unit according to a first control specification and / or as a function of a second type of momentary contact of the second compensating traction means with the detection unit according to a second control specification, in particular by stopping at least one of the elevator cars.

12. Method according to one of the preceding method claims, wherein contact detection is carried out by means of at least two detection elements mounted in or on one another, in that the detection elements, when arranged as intended, completely surround the second compensating tension means, and upon detection / contacting, the formed complete circumferential contour is interrupted / released by displacement of at least one of the detection elements, in particular on an upper side of the circumferential contour; and / or wherein at least one kinematically articulated / mounted detection element of the detection unit pivots, upon detection / contacting, a circumferential contour around the second compensating tension means in a bearing of the detection unit, interrupting it, in particular during switching interaction with a switching unit of the elevator system;and / or wherein the contact detection based on at least one (pivoting) kinematics ensures a switching interaction for the mechanically induced triggering of a stopping of the corresponding elevator car, at least in the case of vertically upward contacting and optionally also in the case of vertically downward contacting.; 13. Method according to one of the preceding method claims, wherein at least the second compensating traction means is guided in particular with respect to at least one horizontal spatial direction, preferably with respect to both Horizontal spatial directions, in particular by means of a first guide unit on the part of counterweights of the elevator system and a second guide unit on the part of the second elevator car or in a central region of a base area of the elevator car projected onto the shaft pit; and / or wherein the second compensating traction means is guided relative to the detection unit in a desired movement plane such that the second compensating traction means passes / passes through a detection plane spanned by the detection unit at least approximately orthogonally.

14. A computer program product comprising instructions which, when the computer program product is executed on a computer, cause the computer to execute a method according to one of the preceding method claims on the computer, in particular a computer program product configured to generate a control command for stopping at least one elevator car (101) of an elevator installation (100) as a function of a direction-dependent contacting of a detection unit (10) of the elevator installation surrounding a compensating traction means (1, 2) of the elevator installation (100) at one of at least two contact lines or surfaces (11.1, 12.1) of the detection unit (10).

15. Use of at least one pivotably mounted detection element (11) of a detection unit (10) for the kinematically initiated generation of at least one control command for controlling the operating state of at least one elevator car (101) of an elevator installation (100) as a function of at least two different types of instantaneous contact of a compensating traction means (1, 2) with the detection unit (10) by direction-specific contact detection, in particular by stopping at least one of the elevator cars (101), in particular in an elevator installation (100) according to one of claims 1 to 9, in particular in a method according to one of method claims 10 to 13.

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