INSTALLATION DEVICE FOR AN OPTICAL BARRIER ON ELEVATORS

Abstract

OPTICAL BARRIER INSTALLATION DEVICE FOR ELEVATORS Device (100) for installing an optical barrier (B) for elevators comprising a main containment body (200) defining a first containment chamber (C1) and a second containment chamber (C2). The device (100) further comprises an optical barrier (B) integrated into said first containment chamber (C1) and an adjustment system configured, in use, to adjust the positioning of the main containment body (200) inside the elevator. The adjustment system comprises an extruded adjustment profile (300) extending between a first end (300a) and a second end (300b) and housed inside the second containment chamber (C2). The extruded adjustment profile (300) is movable in sliding extraction or retraction from said second containment chamber (C2) between a maximum extraction position and a minimum extraction position.The adjustment system further includes a locking mechanism configured to block the sliding of the extruded adjustment profile (300) so as to maintain the extruded adjustment profile (300) in an adjustment position between the minimum extraction position and the maximum extraction position.

Description

Title of the invention: DEVICE FOR INSTALLING AN OPTICAL BARRIER FOR ELEVATORS Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to a device for installing an optical barrier for elevators which finds wide use in the field of elevators and freight elevators. Prior art

[0002] As is known, optical barriers are infrared ray devices that are installed in elevators to protect passengers passing through the door while the door itself is closing.

[0003] In other words, optical barriers are installed in elevators to prevent untimely closing of automatic doors, thus protecting those entering or leaving the elevator cabin.

[0004] In this situation, the optical barriers must occupy a very precise position inside the cabin in order to correctly detect the presence of the person.

[0005] Normally, an optical barrier is installed so as to be integral with the elevator in the shaft space between the elevator cabin and the structure of the building in which the elevator is installed.

[0006] As a rule, the fixing points of the optical barrier are located at the threshold and at the top of the door.

[0007] The lack of unification and the enormous variety of existing elevators have not allowed, until now, a standardization of protection systems with defined dimensions.

[0008] For this reason, it is known to install the optical barriers on supports of adequate length (equal to or greater than the distance between the threshold and the top of the door) generally equipped with adjustment slots to allow the mounting and adjustment of the positioning of the optical barriers themselves.

[0009] In this situation, it is preferable that the supports are sized to be sufficiently robust and offer such rigidity that they guarantee the correct optical operation of the barrier, avoiding rapid degradation of the electronic components due to vibrations of the elevator.

[0010] The limit of the dimensions, and therefore of the strength of the support, is dictated by the space in the elevator shaft. The space in the shaft between the elevator and the structure of the building in which the elevator is installed is very narrow and is not accessible from the front to mount and adjust the position of the optical barrier on the support.

[0011] In this situation, the optical barrier must be mounted on the bracket outside the elevator, and then the bracket and optical barrier assembly must be mounted on the elevator. This is particularly difficult and impractical and requires the presence of two specialized operators (one on the roof of the elevator and one at the bottom of the elevator pit). Subject of the invention

[0012] Therefore, the technical task of the present invention is to propose a device for installing an optical barrier for elevators which is capable of overcoming the disadvantages arising from the known technique.

[0013] The aim of the present invention is therefore to propose a device for installing an optical barrier for elevators which allows simplified installation and adjustment of the position of the optical barrier.

[0014] Another object of the present invention is to provide a device for installing an optical barrier for elevators which allows a faster but more precise installation of the optical barrier.

[0015] Another object of the present invention is to propose a device for installing an optical barrier for elevators which can be positioned in any type of elevator.

[0016] Another object of the present invention is to propose a device for installing an optical barrier for elevators which is more robust and stable so as to require less maintenance interventions.

[0017] Another aim of the present invention is to propose a device for installing an optical barrier for elevators which is resistant over time.

[0018] The specified technical task and the specified aims are essentially achieved by a device for installing an optical barrier for elevators comprising; - a main containment body developing along a main direction of development and defining a first containment chamber and a second containment chamber placed side by side along a direction transverse to the main direction of development; - an optical barrier integrated into said first confinement chamber so as to emit a plurality of optical rays towards the outside of said main confinement body; - an adjustment system configured, in use, to adjust a positioning of said main containment body relative to the elevator, said adjustment system comprising: - an extruded adjustment profile extending between a first end and a second end and housed inside said second containment chamber, said extruded adjustment profile being movable in sliding extraction or retraction from said second containment chamber parallel to said direction main development position between a maximum extraction position, in which said first end is distant from said main containment body, and a minimum extraction position, in which said first end is brought closer to said main containment body; - a locking mechanism configured to lock the sliding of said extruded adjustment profile so as to maintain said extruded adjustment profile in an adjustment position between said minimum extraction position and said maximum extraction position.

[0019] Preferably, said locking mechanism comprises: - a locking bar extending between a first and a second end and inserted inside said extruded adjustment profile so that said first and second ends respectively protrude from the first and second ends of the extruded adjustment profile, said locking bar being movable in sliding parallel to the main direction of development; - a braking means operatively connected to said adjusting extruded profile and to said locking bar and movable between a locking position, in which it interferes with an inner lateral surface of said second containment chamber to lock the adjusting extruded profile in said adjusting position, and a release position, in which said interference ceases to allow sliding of the adjusting extruded profile; said braking means passing, in use, from said locking position to said release position and vice versa following a sliding movement of said locking bar.

[0020] Preferably, said braking means is mounted on the second end of the extruded adjustment profile so as to be integral with said extruded adjustment profile and engaged with said second end of the locking bar, said braking means being elastically deformable; and wherein said locking bar is slidably movable between a locking configuration, in which said second end imparts a deforming action on the braking means so as to cause it to expand such that said braking means moves into the locking position, and a release configuration, in which said second end ceases the deforming action on the braking means to cause it to spring back so that said braking means assumes said release position.

[0021] Preferably, said braking means is fitted onto said second end of the locking bar such that, in said locking configuration, the second end of the locking bar is fully inserted inside the braking means to cause deformation thereof, and such that, in said release configuration, the second end of the locking bar protrudes at least partially from said braking means.

[0022] Preferably, wherein said braking means comprises a through hole of constant diameter extending parallel to the main direction of development and configured to accommodate the second end of the locking bar, and wherein said second end of the locking bar comprises a profiled portion having a section gradually increasing up to a dimension greater than a dimension of a diameter of said through hole so that, in said locking configuration, the insertion of the second end into said through hole causes said expansion of the braking means.

[0023] Preferably, the profiled portion has a truncated cone shape.

[0024] Preferably, the first end of said locking bar comprises a threaded portion and wherein the adjustment system comprises a safety mechanism comprising: - a stop element fitted onto said locking bar below said threaded portion; - a box-shaped body attached to the first end of said extruded adjustment profile and comprising a seat from which said second end of the locking bar protrudes, the box-shaped body defining a containment volume for said stop element; - a clamping component engaging the threaded portion and operable to cause said stop element to move within the containment volume between a rest position, in which it rests on a bottom wall of the box-shaped body facing the first end of said extruded adjustment profile, to an operational position, in which it abuts an upper wall of the box-shaped body opposite, along the main direction of development, the bottom wall.

[0025] Preferably, in use, movement of the stop member from the rest position to the operative position corresponds to movement of the locking bar from the release configuration to the locking configuration.

[0026] Preferably, the stop element comprises a Seeger ring.

[0027] Preferably, the clamping component is sleeved onto the threaded portion and rests on said upper wall of the box-shaped body outside said containment volume.

[0028] Preferably, the clamping component comprises a nut capable of being screwed along the threaded portion.

[0029] Preferably, the box-shaped body comprises an opening formed in a side wall of the box-shaped body and configured to allow an operator to see said stop element.

[0030] Preferably, the locking bar is movable in relative sliding relative to said extruded adjustment profile.

[0031] Preferably, the locking bar comprises, between the first and second ends, a central portion having, in section, a polygonal, preferably hexagonal, shape, said central portion being counter-formed relative to an inner surface of the extruded adjustment profile so as to prevent rotation of said locking bar relative to said extruded adjustment profile.

[0032] Preferably, an outer lateral surface of said extruded adjustment profile is counter-formed relative to an inner lateral surface of said second confinement chamber.

[0033] Preferably, the extruded adjustment profile has, in section, an essentially rectangular shape.

[0034] Preferably, when the extruded adjustment profile is in said maximum extraction position, the first end is spaced from the main confinement body by a distance of between 40 cm and 60 cm, preferably equal to 50 cm.

[0035] Preferably, the device comprises operating electronics configured to control the operation of the optical barrier and housed in said first confinement chamber.

[0036] Preferably, the first confinement chamber is divided into a first and a second sub-volume and wherein said optical barrier is housed in said first sub-volume and said operating electronics is housed in said second sub-volume.

[0037] Preferably, in a cross-section to said main direction of development, said first sub-volume, said second sub-volume and said second confinement chamber are aligned with each other in such a way that said second sub-volume is interposed between the first sub-volume and the second confinement chamber.

[0038] Preferably, said main containment body is a profile, preferably an aluminum profile or a plastic profile.

[0039] Preferably, the main containment body comprises an upper closure cap configured to upperly close, at least partially, the first and second containment chambers, said upper closure cap comprising a through hole configured to allow the passage of connection cables between the optical barrier and operating electronics, and a passage seat configured to allow sliding movement from said second containment chamber of the extruded adjustment profile.

[0040] Preferably, the upper closing cap is made of plastic or elastomeric material.

[0041] Preferably, the main containment body comprises a lower closure cap configured to lowerly close, at least partially, the first and second containment chambers.

[0042] Preferably, the lower closing cap is made of plastic or elastomeric material.

[0043] Preferably, the lower closure cap comprises a projection which extends away from the lower closure cap itself, externally to the first and second containment chambers. Summary description of the drawings

[0044] Other characteristics and advantages of the present invention will appear more clearly in the indicative, and therefore non-limiting, description of an embodiment of a device for installing an optical barrier for elevators.

[0045] This description will be set out below with reference to the attached drawings, provided solely for information and, consequently, non-limiting, in which:

[0046] [Fig-1]: Figure IA and Figure IB show perspective views of the device object of the present invention in two different configurations;

[0047] [Fig.2]: Figure 2A and Figure 2B show sectional views of a component of the device which is the subject of the present invention in two different positions;

[0048] [Fig.3]: Figure 3A and Figure 3B show perspective views of another component of the device which is the subject of the present invention in two different positions;

[0049] [Fig.4]: [Fig.4] shows a perspective view of a locking bar of the device which is the subject of the invention;

[0050] [Fig.5]: [Fig.5] shows a cross-sectional view of the device which is the subject of the present invention. Description of the embodiments

[0051] With reference to the attached figures, the number 100 designates a device for installing an optical barrier “B” for elevators.

[0052] The device 100 comprises a main containment body 200 extending along a main development direction “X”.

[0053] Preferably, the main containment body 200 is a profile.

[0054] Preferably, the profile is made of aluminum. Alternatively, the profile is made of plastic.

[0055] Preferably, the main containment body 200 has a dimension, measured along the main direction of development “X”, much larger than a dimension measured along a direction transverse to the main direction of development “X”.

[0056] The main confinement body 200 defines a first confinement chamber “C1” and a second confinement chamber “C2” placed side by side along a direction transverse to the main direction of development “X” ([Fig.5]).

[0057] In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second confinement chambers “C1”, “C2” have, in section, the same shape (rectangular) and essentially the same dimensions.

[0058] Alternatively, the first confinement chamber “C1” and the second confinement chamber “C2” could have, in section, different shapes and / or different dimensions.

[0059] The device 100 also comprises an optical barrier “B” integrated into the first confinement chamber “C1” so as to emit a plurality of optical rays towards the outside of the main confinement body 200.

[0060] The optical barrier “B” is configured to detect the presence of a body so that, once connected to the electronics of the elevator, it is possible to avoid untimely closing of the elevator doors.

[0061] Preferably, the device 100 further comprises operating electronics configured to control the operation of the optical barrier “B”. The operating electronics are housed in the first confinement chamber “C1”.

[0062] According to the illustrated embodiment, the first confinement chamber “C1” is divided into a first and a second sub-volume “VI”, “V2”. In this situation, the optical barrier “B” is housed in the first sub-volume “VI” while the operating electronics are housed in the second sub-volume “V2”.

[0063] Preferably, in a cross-section to the main direction of development “X”, the first sub-volume “VI”, the second sub-volume “V2” and the second confinement chamber “C2” are aligned with each other in such a way that the second sub-volume “V2” is interposed between the first sub-volume “VI” and the second confinement chamber “C2” ([Fig.5]).

[0064] As shown, for example, in Figures 1A and 1B, the main containment body 200 also comprises an upper closing cap 201 configured to upperly close, at least partially, the first and second containment chambers “C1”, “C2”.

[0065] Preferably, the upper closing cap 201 comprises a through hole 202 configured to allow the passage of connection cables between the optical barrier “B” and the operating electronics of the latter.

[0066] Alternatively, the cables may be co-molded cables so that the presence of the through hole 202 is not necessary.

[0067] The upper closure cap 201 also includes a passage seat 203 configured to allow sliding movement of an extruded adjustment profile 300 in the second containment chamber "C2", as will be described in detail below.

[0068] Preferably, the upper closing cap 201 is made of plastic or elastomeric material.

[0069] As shown, for example, in Figures 1A and 1B, the main containment body 200 also comprises a lower closing cap 204 configured to lowerly close, at least partially, the first and second containment chambers “C1”, “C2”.

[0070] Preferably, the lower closing cap 204 is made of plastic or elastomeric material.

[0071] Even more preferably, the lower closure cap 204 comprises a projection 204a, preferably a metal projection, which develops away from the lower closure cap 204 itself, externally to the first and second containment chambers "C1", "C2", and configured to allow fixing of the device 100 inside the elevator.

[0072] The device 100 further comprises an adjustment system configured, in use, to adjust the positioning of the main containment body 200 within the elevator.

[0073] Advantageously, the fact of integrating the optical barrier “B” and the adjustment system in a single device 100 makes the positioning of the optical barrier “B” faster and simpler. In this situation, in fact, it is possible, at the time of installation, to combine the phase of laying the support of the optical barrier “B” with the phase of adjusting the positioning of the optical barrier “B” on this support. The fact of having the optical barrier integrated in the same device as the adjustment system prevents there from being a “relative movement” between the optical barrier “B” and its support.

[0074] The adjustment system comprises an extruded adjustment profile 300 extending between a first end 300a and a second end 300b.

[0075] The extruded adjustment profile 300 is housed inside the second containment chamber “C2” and is movable in extraction or sliding retraction from the second containment chamber “C2” parallel to the main direction of development “X” between a maximum extraction position and a minimum extraction position.

[0076] As shown in Figure 1B, in the maximum extraction position, the first end 300a is distant from the main confinement body 200. On the other hand, as shown in Figure 1A, in the minimum extraction position, the first end 300a is brought closer to the main confinement body 200.

[0077] According to a non-limiting example of a possible embodiment, when the extruded adjustment profile 300 is in the maximum extraction position, the first end 300a is spaced from the main confinement body 200, and more precisely from the upper closing cap 201, by a distance “D” of between 40 cm and 60 cm, preferably equal to 50 cm.

[0078] According to another possible embodiment, the extruded adjustment profile 300 has a length, along the main direction of development “X”, greater than the length, along the main direction of development “X”, of the main containment body 200.

[0079] Preferably, the extruded adjustment profile 300 is made of metallic material and, more preferably, of aluminum.

[0080] Alternatively, the extruded adjustment profile 300 is made of plastic material.

[0081] As can be seen in the embodiment shown in the attached figures, and in particular in [Fig.5], an outer lateral surface of the extruded adjustment profile 300 is counter-formed relative to an inner lateral surface of the second confinement chamber “C2”.

[0082] In the embodiment shown in the attached figures, the extruded adjustment profile 300 has, in section, an essentially rectangular shape.

[0083] Alternatively, the extruded adjustment profile 300 could have, in section, any polygonal or circular shape provided that it can slide inside the second confinement chamber “C2” without rotating around its own axis.

[0084] The adjustment system further comprises a locking mechanism configured to lock the sliding of the extruded adjustment profile 300 so as to maintain the extruded adjustment profile 300 in an adjustment position between the minimum extraction position and the maximum extraction position.

[0085] In other words, once the adjustment extruded profile 300 has been extracted or retracted inside the second containment chamber “C2” by a desired amount, i.e. once the first end 300a of the adjustment extruded profile 300 is spaced from the main containment body 200 by a desired distance, the locking mechanism intervenes to lock the sliding of the adjustment extruded profile 300 so that the latter maintains the adjustment position.

[0086] The locking mechanism comprises a locking bar 400 extending between a first and a second end 400a, 400b.

[0087] The locking bar 400 is inserted inside the adjustment extruded profile 300 so that the first and second ends 400a, 400b respectively protrude from the first and second ends 300a, 300b of the adjustment extruded profile 300.

[0088] Preferably, the locking bar 400 is made of metallic material, for example aluminum or iron.

[0089] Preferably, the locking bar 400 comprises, between the first and second ends 400a, 400b, a central portion 400c having, in section, a polygonal shape, preferably hexagonal ([Fig.4]).

[0090] Preferably, the central portion 400c is counter-formed relative to an inner lateral surface of the extruded adjustment profile 300 so as to prevent rotation of the locking bar 400 relative to the extruded adjustment profile 300 ([Fig.5]).

[0091] In other words, the locking bar 400 cannot rotate around its own development axis thanks to the counter-shape of its central portion 400c relative to the inner lateral surface of the extruded adjustment profile 300.

[0092] Alternatively, to block the rotation of the locking bar 400 around its development axis, the locking bar 400 (and in particular its central portion 400c) has a thread onto which it is possible to screw an insert having a polygonal shape, preferably hexagonal, counter-formed relative to an internal lateral surface of the extruded adjustment profile 300.

[0093] The locking bar 400 is nevertheless configured to slide parallel to the main direction of development “X” inside the extruded adjustment profile 300, as will be described in detail below. In this situation, the locking bar 400 is movable in relative sliding relative to the extruded adjustment profile 300.

[0094] The locking mechanism further comprises a braking means 500 operatively connected to the extruded adjustment profile 300, preferably integral with this extruded adjustment profile 300, and connected to the locking bar 400.

[0095] The braking means 500 is movable between a locking position, in which it interferes with at least one inner side wall of the second confinement chamber “C2” to lock the extruded adjustment profile 300 in the adjustment position, and a release position, in which it no longer interferes to allow the sliding of the extruded adjustment profile 300.

[0096] The braking means 500 passes, in use, from the locking position to the release position, and vice versa, following a sliding movement of the locking bar 400.

[0097] In this situation, once the adjustment extruded profile 300 has been placed in the adjustment position, the locking bar 400 is slid and the braking means 500 moves from the release position to the locking position, interfering with the inner side wall of the second containment chamber "C2" to prevent the adjustment extruded profile 300 from sliding.

[0098] If the position of the extruded adjustment profile 300 needs to be adjusted again, the locking bar 400 is slid again, for example in the opposite direction to before, and the braking means 500 moves from the locking position to the release position, interrupting the interference and allowing the extruded adjustment profile 300 to slide inside the second confinement chamber “C2”.

[0099] From now on, reference will be made to the exemplary embodiment shown in the attached figures.

[0100] In this embodiment, the braking means 500 is mounted on the second end 300b of the extruded adjustment profile 300 so as to be integral with the extruded adjustment profile 300 itself.

[0101] In other words, the braking means 500 is moved jointly with the extruded adjustment profile 300 when the latter is moved in sliding motion to be extracted or returned to the second confinement chamber “C2”.

[0102] Preferably, the braking means 500 is fixed to the extruded adjustment profile 300 using screws.

[0103] Alternatively, the braking means 500 could be attached to the extruded adjustment profile 300 using adhesive substances.

[0104] Alternatively, the braking means 500 could be attached to the extruded adjustment profile 300 by pressure insertion of the braking means 500 itself.

[0105] In the illustrated embodiment, the braking means 500 is elastically deformable, that is to say it is made of an elastic material, for example rubber or a polymer or plastic.

[0106] As can be seen for example in Figures 2A and 2B, the braking means 500 is also engaged at the second end 400b of the locking bar 400.

[0107] In use, the locking bar 400 slides within the adjustment extruded profile 300 between a locking configuration and a release configuration.

[0108] In the locking configuration (figure 2B), the second end 400b of the locking bar 400 imparts a deformation action on the braking means 500 so as to cause it to expand such that the braking means 500 moves into the locking position, i.e. it interferes with at least one side wall. interior of the second containment chamber “C2” to lock the extruded adjustment profile 300 in the adjustment position.

[0109] In other words, the second end 400b of the locking bar 400 causes a deformation of the braking means 500 such as to produce a “bulge” or an expansion of the latter. In this situation, by expanding, the braking means 500 imparts a pushing action on the inner side wall of the second confinement chamber “C2” which prevents the braking means 500 from sliding along the second confinement chamber “C2” and, consequently, a sliding of the extruded adjustment profile 300 (figure 2B).

[0110] In the release configuration (Figure 2A), on the other hand, the second end 400b of the locking bar 400 stops the deformation action on the braking means 500 to cause an elastic return in the release position and allow the sliding of the extruded adjustment profile 300.

[0111] In other words, the second end 400b of the locking bar 400 ceases its action on the braking means 500, allowing the latter to resume its initial shape and dimensions. In this situation, the braking means 500 ceases its pushing action on the inner side wall of the second confinement chamber “C2” and becomes free to slide again inside the second confinement chamber “C2” with the extruded adjustment profile 300.

[0112] In use, therefore, at the time of installation of the device 100, the locking bar 400 is in the release configuration so as to allow the sliding of the extruded adjustment profile 300 (with the braking means 500) inside the second confinement chamber “C2” and the braking means 500 is in the release position.

[0113] Once the extruded adjustment profile 300 has been extracted or retracted so that the first end 300a of the latter is at a desired distance from the main confinement body 200, that is to say so that the extruded adjustment profile 300 takes the desired adjustment position, the locking bar 400 is slid inside the extruded adjustment profile 300. In this situation, the locking bar 400 is brought from the release configuration to the locking configuration in which the second end 400b of the locking bar 400 imparts the deformation action on the braking means 500. In this situation, the braking means 500 deforms, in particular by expanding, and passes into the locking position.

[0114] As shown in Figure 2B, once deformed, the braking means 500 interferes with the inner side wall of the second confinement chamber “C2”. In this situation, the braking means 500 acts as a holding block and prevents the extruded adjustment profile 300 from sliding along the second confinement chamber “C2”.

[0115] In the embodiment shown in Figures 2A and 2B, the braking means 500 is fitted onto the second end 400b of the locking bar 400 such that, in the locking configuration, the second end 400b of the locking bar 400 is fully inserted inside the braking means 500 to cause deformation thereof, and such that, in the release configuration, the second end 400b of the locking bar 400 protrudes at least partially from the braking means 500.

[0116] Indeed, as shown in Figure 2B, in the locking configuration, the second end 400b of the locking bar 400 is fully inserted inside the braking means 500. On the contrary, as shown in Figure 2A, in the release configuration, the second end 400b of the locking bar 400 is at least partially extracted from the braking means 500 towards the lower closing cap 204.

[0117] Still with reference to Figure 2A, in the release configuration, the second end 400b of the locking bar 400 exits the braking means 500, facing the lower closing cap 204 and passing through the braking means 500 itself.

[0118] In the illustrated embodiment, the braking means 500 comprises a through hole 501 of constant diameter extending parallel to the main direction of development “X” and configured to accommodate the second end 400b of the locking bar 400. In this situation, the second end 400b of the locking bar 400 comprises a profiled portion 401 having a section gradually increasing up to a dimension greater than a dimension of a diameter of the through hole 501 so that, in the locking configuration, the insertion of the second end 400b into the through hole 501 causes the expansion of the braking means 500.

[0119] Preferably, the profiled portion 401 is made in one piece with the central portion 400c.

[0120] Alternatively, the profiled portion 401 may be reversibly secured to the central portion 400c.

[0121] Preferably, the profiled portion 401 has a truncated cone shape.

[0122] Preferably, the profiled portion 401 has a progressively increasing diameter. from a diameter less than the diameter of the through hole 501 to a diameter greater than the diameter of the through hole 501.

[0123] As shown in Figure 2B, since the profiled portion 401 has an increasing section, as the profiled portion 401 is gradually inserted into the through hole 501 of constant section, the braking means 500 expands, blocking thus, as described above, a possible sliding of the extruded adjustment profile 300.

[0124] In the embodiment shown in the attached figures, between the profiled portion 401 and the central portion 400c, the locking bar 400 comprises an intermediate portion 400d of essentially circular section. The intermediate portion 400d has a diameter smaller than the diameter of the through hole 501 so that, when the second end 400b, defining the profiled portion 401, is in the release position (Figure 2A), the intermediate portion 400d can be housed inside the through hole 501 of the braking means 500 without causing any deformation of the latter.

[0125] According to a possible embodiment, the locking bar 400 can move from the locking configuration to the release configuration, and vice versa, thanks to the manual action of an operator who grasps the first end 400a of the locking bar 400 and slides the latter so as to move away (in the event of locking) or bring closer (in the event of release) this first end 400a from the first end 300a of the extruded adjustment profile 300.

[0126] In accordance with the illustrated embodiment, however, the transition of the locking bar 400 from the locking configuration to the release configuration, and vice versa, occurs using a safety mechanism also useful for ensuring that the locking bar 400 does not accidentally transition from the locking configuration to the release configuration, as will be described below.

[0127] The safety mechanism comprises a stop element 600, for example a Seeger ring, fitted onto the locking bar 400 below a threaded portion 402 thereof.

[0128] As shown, for example, in Figures 3A and 3B, the first end 400a of the locking bar 400 in fact comprises a threaded portion 402.

[0129] Preferably, the threaded portion 402 is made in one piece with the central portion 400c.

[0130] Alternatively, the threaded portion 402 may be reversibly secured with the central portion 400c.

[0131] Preferably, the threaded portion 402 has, in section, a dimension smaller than the dimension of the central portion 400c.

[0132] Preferably, between the central portion 400c and the second end 400b, defining the threaded portion 402, the locking bar 400 comprises an intermediate portion 400d identical to the intermediate portion 400d interposed between the central portion 400c and the first end 400a.

[0133] Preferably, the stop element 600 is fitted onto the locking bar 400 on the intermediate portion 400d between the threaded portion 402 and the central portion 400c.

[0134] The safety mechanism also comprises a box-shaped body 601 fixed (and therefore integral) to the first end 300a of the extruded adjustment profile 300 and comprising a seat from which the second end 400b of the locking bar 400 protrudes.

[0135] As shown in Figures 3A and 3B, the box-shaped body 601 defines a containment volume for the stop member 600.

[0136] Preferably, the box-shaped body 601 is made of metal, for example aluminum.

[0137] Alternatively, the box-shaped body 601 is made of plastic.

[0138] The safety mechanism further comprises a clamping component 602 engaged with the threaded portion 402.

[0139] Preferably, the clamping component 602 comprises a nut capable of being screwed along the threaded portion 402.

[0140] Preferably, the clamping component 602 is sleeved onto the threaded portion 402 and rests on the upper wall 601b of the box-shaped body 601 outside the containment volume.

[0141] The clamping component 602 may be actuated, for example manually, by an operator, to cause movement of the stop element 600 in the containment volume from a rest position to an operational position and vice versa.

[0142] As shown in Figure 3A, in the rest position, the stop element 600 rests on a bottom wall 601a of the box-shaped body 601 facing the first end 300a of the adjustment extruded profile 300.

[0143] As shown in Figure 3B, in the operational position, the stop element 600 abuts the upper wall 601b of the box-shaped body 601 opposite, along the main direction of development "X", to the bottom wall 601a.

[0144] In other words, the bottom wall 601a and the top wall 601b define respective end-of-travel stops for the stop element 600 during its movement in the confinement volume.

[0145] In use, a movement of the stop element 600 from the rest position to the operational position corresponds to a movement of the locking bar 400 from the release configuration to the locking configuration.

[0146] In this situation, when the stop element 600 is in the operative position, the clamping component 602 prevents the locking bar 400 from accidentally moving from the locking configuration to the release configuration.

[0147] On the contrary, a movement of the stop element 600 from the operational position to the rest position corresponds to a movement of the locking bar 400 from the locking configuration to the release configuration. In this situation, the clamping component 602 is released, allowing the locking bar 400 to transition from the locking configuration to the releasing configuration.

[0148] Preferably, so that an operator can see the position of the stop element 600, the box-shaped body 601 includes an opening 603 formed in a side wall of the box-shaped body 601.

[0149] In use therefore, at the time of installation of the device 100, the clamping component 602 is inactive and the stop element 600 is in the rest position. In this situation, the locking bar 400 is in the release configuration so as to allow sliding of the extruded adjustment profile 300 (with the braking means 500) inside the second confinement chamber “C2”.

[0150] Once the extruded adjustment profile 300 has been extracted or retracted from the second containment chamber “C2” so that the latter takes the desired adjustment position, the clamping component 602 is activated.

[0151] In particular, the clamping component 602 is screwed onto the threaded portion 402 to cause a movement of the stopping element 600 from the rest position to the operational position.

[0152] In this situation, as the stop element 600 approaches the upper wall 601b of the box-shaped body 601, the locking bar 400 gradually slides inside the extruded adjustment profile 300 so that the profiled portion 401 gradually inserts into the braking means 500, deforming it.

[0153] Once the stop element 600 is in abutment against the upper wall 601b of the box-shaped body 601, its travel is stopped and the locking bar 400 has completed its sliding from the release configuration to the locking configuration. In this situation, the profiled portion 401 is fully inserted inside the braking means 500 which has expanded, blocking the sliding of the extruded adjustment profile 300 inside the second containment chamber “C2”. In this situation, the clamping component 602 is engaged with the threaded portion 402 and prevents the locking bar 400 from accidentally moving from the locking configuration to the release configuration. In doing so, the adjustment of the positioning of the optical barrier “B”, which is integrated with the main containment body 200, is completed and no further adjustment is necessary.

[0154] The present invention achieves the intended aims by eliminating the drawbacks arising from the known technique.

[0155] In particular, the present invention avoids that there is a relative movement (and therefore that an adjustment is necessary) between the optical barrier and the support which supports it inside the elevator because it is integrated with the adjustment system in a single main containment body.

[0156] The present invention makes it possible to install and adjust the positioning of the optical barrier inside the elevator in a simpler and faster manner.

[0157] The present invention makes it possible to use a single operator to install and adjust the positioning of the optical barrier inside the elevator.

Claims

Claims

1. Device (100) for installing an optical barrier (B) for elevators comprising: - a main confinement body (200) developing along a main development direction (X) and defining a first confinement chamber (Cl) and a second confinement chamber (C2) placed side by side along a direction transverse to the main development direction (X); - an optical barrier (B) integrated with said first confinement chamber (Cl) so as to emit a plurality of optical rays towards the outside of said main confinement body (200);- an adjustment system configured, in use, to adjust a positioning of said main containment body (200) relative to the elevator, said adjustment system comprising: - an extruded adjustment profile (300) extending between a first end (300a) and a second end (300b) and housed inside said second containment chamber (C2), said extruded adjustment profile (300) being movable in sliding extraction or retraction from said second containment chamber (C2) parallel to said main development direction (X) between a maximum extraction position, in which said first end (300a) is distant from said main containment body (200), and a minimum extraction position, in which said first end (300a) is brought closer to said main containment body (200);- a locking mechanism configured to lock the sliding of said extruded adjustment profile (300) so as to maintain said extruded adjustment profile (300) in an adjustment position between said minimum extraction position and said maximum extraction position.;

2. Device according to claim 1, wherein said locking mechanism comprises: - a locking bar (400) extending between a first and a second end (400a, 400b) and inserted inside said extruded adjustment profile (300) so that said first and second ends (400a, 400b) respectively protrude from the first and second ends (300a, 300b) of the profile

3.

4. adjustment extruded (300), said locking bar (400) being movable in sliding parallel to the main direction of development (X); - a braking means (500) operatively connected to said adjusting extruded profile (300) and to said locking bar (400) and movable between a locking position, in which it interferes with an inner lateral surface of said second containment chamber (C2) to lock the adjusting extruded profile (300) in said adjusting position, and a release position, in which said interference ceases to allow sliding of the adjusting extruded profile (300); said braking means (500) passing, in use, from said locking position to said release position and vice versa following a sliding movement of said locking bar (400). Device according to claim 2, wherein said braking means (500) is mounted on the second end (300b) of the extruded adjustment profile (300) so as to be integral with said extruded adjustment profile (300) and in engagement with said second end (400b) of the locking bar (400), said braking means (500) being elastically deformable; and wherein said locking bar (400) is slidably movable between a locking configuration, in which said second end (400b) imparts a deforming action on the braking means (500) so as to cause it to expand such that said braking means (500) moves into the locking position, and a release configuration, in which said second end (400b) ceases the deforming action on the braking means (500) to cause it to spring back so that said braking means (500) assumes said release position.Device according to claim 3, wherein said braking means (500) is fitted onto said second end (400b) of the locking bar (400) such that, in said locking configuration, the second end (400b) of the locking bar (400) is fully inserted inside the braking means (500) to cause deformation thereof, and such that, in said release configuration, the second end (400b) of the locking bar (400) protrudes at least partially from said braking means (500).

5. Device according to claim 4, wherein said braking means (500) comprises a through hole (501) of constant diameter extending parallel to the main direction of development (X) and configured to accommodate the second end (400b) of the locking bar (400), and wherein said second end (400b) of the locking bar (400) comprises a profiled portion (401) having a section gradually increasing up to a dimension greater than a dimension of a diameter of said through hole (501) so that, in said locking configuration, the insertion of the second end (400b) into said through hole (501) causes said expansion of the braking means (500).

6. Device according to claim 5, in which said profiled portion (401) has a truncated cone shape.

7. Device according to any one of the preceding claims from 2 to 6 wherein the first end (400a) of said locking bar (400) comprises a threaded portion (402) and wherein the adjustment system comprises a safety mechanism comprising: - a stop element (600) fitted onto said locking bar (400) below said threaded portion (402); - a box-shaped body (601) fixed to the first end (300a) of said extruded adjustment profile (300) and comprising a seat from which protrudes said second end (400b) of the locking bar (400), the box-shaped body defining a containment volume for said stop element (600);- a clamping component (602) engaged with the threaded portion (402) and operable to cause a movement of said stop element (600) inside the containment volume between a rest position, in which it rests on a bottom wall (601a) of the box-shaped body (601) facing the first end (300a) of said extruded adjustment profile (300), to an operational position, in which it abuts with an upper wall (601b) of the box-shaped body (601) opposite, along the main direction of development (X), to the bottom wall (601a).;

8. A device according to claim 7, wherein, in use, a movement of the stop member (600) from the rest position to the operative position corresponds to a movement of the bar blocking (400) from the release configuration to the blocking configuration.

9. A device according to claim 7 or 8, wherein said stop member (600) comprises a Seeger ring.

10. A device according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein said clamping component (602) is sleeved onto the threaded portion (402) and rests on said upper wall (601b) of the box-shaped body (601) outside said containment volume.

11. A device according to any one of claims 7 to 10, wherein said clamping component (602) comprises a nut capable of being screwed along the threaded portion (402).

12. A device according to any one of claims 7 to 11, wherein said box-shaped body (601) comprises an opening (603) formed in a side wall of the box-shaped body (601) and configured to allow an operator to see said stop member (600).

13. Device according to any one of claims 2 to 12, wherein said locking bar (400) is movable in relative sliding relative to said extruded adjustment profile (300).

14. Device according to any one of claims 2 to 13, wherein said locking bar (400) comprises, between the first and second ends (400a, 400b), a central portion (400c) having, in section, a polygonal, preferably hexagonal, shape, said central portion (400c) being counter-formed relative to an inner surface of the extruded adjustment profile (300) so as to prevent rotation of said locking bar (400) relative to said extruded adjustment profile (300).

15. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said extruded adjustment profile (300) is made of a metallic material, preferably aluminum.

16. A device according to any preceding claim, wherein an outer lateral surface of said extruded adjustment profile (300) is counter-formed relative to an inner lateral surface of said second containment chamber (C2).

17. A device according to any preceding claim, wherein said extruded adjustment profile (300) has, in section, a substantially rectangular shape.

18. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, when the extruded adjustment profile (300) is in said maximum extraction position, the first end (300a) is spaced from the main containment body (200) by a distance (D) of between 40 cm and 60 cm, preferably equal to 50 cm.

19. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising operating electronics configured to control the operation of the optical barrier (B) and housed in said first confinement chamber (Cl).

20. Device according to claim 19, wherein said first confinement chamber (Cl) is divided into a first and a second sub-volume (VI, V2) and wherein said optical barrier (B) is housed in said first sub-volume (VI) and said operating electronics is housed in said second sub-volume (V2).

21. Device according to claim 20, wherein, in a cross-section to said main direction of development (X), said first sub-volume (VI), said second sub-volume (V2) and said second confinement chamber (C2) are aligned with each other in such a way that said second sub-volume (V2) is interposed between the first sub-volume (VI) and the second confinement chamber (C2).

22. A device according to any preceding claim, wherein said main containment body (200) is a profile, preferably an aluminum profile or a plastic profile.

23. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said main containment body (200) comprises an upper closing cap (201) configured to upperly close, at least partially, the first and second containment chambers (C1, C2), said upper closing cap (201) comprising a through hole (202) configured to allow the passage of connecting cables between the optical barrier (B) and operating electronics, and a passage seat (203) configured to allow sliding movement from said second containment chamber (C2) of the extruded adjustment profile (300).

24. Device according to claim 23, wherein said upper closing cap (201) is made of plastic or elastomeric material.

25. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said main containment body (200) comprises a lower closing cap (204) configured to lowerly close, at least partially, the first and second containment chambers (Cl, C2).

26. A device according to claim 25, wherein said lower closure cap (204) is made of plastic or elastomeric material.

27. ​​Device according to claim 25 or 26, wherein said lower closure cap (204) comprises a projection (204a) which develops away from the lower closure cap (204) itself, externally to the first and second containment chambers (C1), (C2).

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