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 widespread use in the field of elevators and freight elevators. Previous technique

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

[0003] In other words, optical barriers are installed in elevators to prevent untimely closure of automatic doors, thus protecting those entering or exiting 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 attached to the elevator in the space of the cage between the elevator car and the structure of the building in which the elevator is installed.

[0006] As a general 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, until now, allowed for a standardization of protection systems with defined dimensions.

[0008] For this reason, it is known to install 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 be dimensioned to be sufficiently robust and offer such rigidity that they guarantee the proper optical functioning of the barrier, avoiding rapid degradation of the electronic components due to the vibrations of the elevator.

[0010] The limit of the dimensions, and therefore of the resistance 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). Object of the invention

[0012] Accordingly, 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 drawbacks 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 for 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 for a faster but more precise installation of the optical barrier.

[0015] Another object of the present invention is to provide a device for installing an optical barrier for elevators that 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 that is more robust and stable so as to require less maintenance intervention.

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

[0018] The specified technical task and the specified goals are essentially achieved by a device for installing an optical barrier for elevators comprising; - a main containment body developing along a main development direction and defining a first containment chamber and a second containment chamber placed side by side along a direction transverse to the main development direction; - an optical barrier integrated into said first containment chamber so as to emit a plurality of optical rays outwards from said main containment body; - an adjustment system configured, in use, to adjust the 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 extension or sliding retraction from said second containment chamber parallel to said direction principal development between a maximum extraction position, in which said first end is away from said main containment body, and a minimum extraction position, in which said first end is closer to said main containment body; - a locking mechanism configured to block 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 blocking 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 protrude respectively 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 operationally connected to said extruded adjusting 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 extruded adjusting profile in said adjusting position, and a release position, in which said interference ceases to allow the sliding of the extruded adjusting 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 in contact with said second end of the locking bar, said braking means being elastically deformable; and in which said locking bar is movable by sliding between a locking configuration, in which said second end applies a deforming action on the braking means so as to cause an expansion 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 an elastic return so that said braking means takes 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 its deformation, and such that, in said release configuration, the second end of the locking bar protrudes at least partially from said braking means.

[0022] Preferably, said braking means includes 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 in which said second end of the locking bar includes a profiled portion having a progressively increasing cross-section up to a dimension greater than one dimension of the 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 in which the adjustment system comprises a safety mechanism including: - a stop element fitted onto said locking bar below said threaded portion; - a box-shaped body fixed to the first end of said extruded adjusting 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 stopping element; - a clamping component in contact with the threaded portion and capable of being actuated to cause a displacement of said stop element within the containment volume between a rest position, in which it rests on a bottom wall of the box-shaped body opposite the first end of said extruded adjusting profile, to an operational position, in which it comes into contact with an upper wall of the box-shaped body opposite, along the main direction of development, to the bottom wall.

[0025] Preferably, in use, a movement of the stop element from the rest position to the operational position corresponds to a 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 fitted onto the threaded portion and rests on said upper wall of the box-shaped body outside said containment volume.

[0028] Preferably, the clamping component includes a nut that can be screwed along the threaded portion.

[0029] Preferably, the box-shaped body includes an opening made 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 with respect to said extruded adjustment profile.

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

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

[0033] Preferably, the extruded adjustment profile has, in cross-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 containment body by a distance of between 40 cm and 60 cm, preferably equal to 50 cm.

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

[0036] Preferably, the first containment chamber is divided into a first and a second sub-volume, and in which 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 containment 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 containment chamber.

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

[0039] Preferably, the main containment body comprises a top closure cap configured to close, at least partially, the top of the first and second containment chambers, said top closure cap comprising a through hole configured to allow the passage of connecting 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 includes a lower closure plug configured to close, at least partially, the first and second containment chambers from below.

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

[0043] Preferably, the lower closing plug includes a projection which extends away from the lower closing plug itself, externally to the first and second containment chambers. Brief description of the drawings

[0044] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become clearer in the indicative, and therefore non-limiting, description of one embodiment of a device for installing an optical barrier for elevators.

[0045] This description will be set out below with reference to the accompanying drawings, provided for illustrative purposes only and, therefore, not as a limitation, 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 cross-sectional views of a component of the device that 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 that is the subject of the present invention in two different positions;

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

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

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

[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 aluminium. Alternatively, the profile is made of plastic.

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

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

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

[0058] Alternatively, the first containment chamber “Cl” and the second containment chamber “C2” could have, in cross-section, different shapes and / or different dimensions.

[0059] The device 100 also includes an optical barrier "B" integrated into the first containment chamber "Cl" so as to emit a plurality of optical rays outwards from the main containment body 200.

[0060] The optical barrier "B" is configured to detect the presence of a body so that, once connected to the elevator electronics, it is possible to prevent the elevator doors from closing unexpectedly.

[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 containment chamber "Cl".

[0062] According to the illustrated embodiment, the first containment chamber "Cl" is divided into a first and a second sub-volume "VI", "V2". In this configuration, 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 development direction "X", the first sub-volume "VI", the second sub-volume "V2" and the second containment 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 containment chamber "C2" ([Fig.5]).

[0064] As shown, for example, in Figures IA and IB, the main containment body 200 also includes a top closure plug 201 configured to topally close, at least partially, the first and second containment chambers “Cl”, “C2”.

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

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

[0067] The upper closing plug 201 also includes a passage seat 203 configured to allow the 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 closure cap 201 is made of plastic or elastomeric material.

[0069] As shown, for example, in Figures IA and IB, the main containment body 200 also includes a lower closing plug 204 configured to lowerally close, at least partially, the first and second containment chambers “Cl”, “C2”.

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

[0071] Even more preferably, the lower closing plug 204 includes a projection 204a, preferably a metallic projection, which extends away from the lower closing plug 204 itself, externally to the first and second containment chambers "Cl", "C2", and configured to allow attachment of the device 100 inside the elevator.

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

[0073] Advantageously, integrating the optical barrier "B" and the adjustment system into a single device 100 makes positioning the optical barrier "B" faster and simpler. In this situation, it is possible, during installation, to combine the phase of mounting the support for the optical barrier "B" with the phase of adjusting the positioning of the optical barrier "B" on this support. Having the optical barrier integrated into the same device as the adjustment system prevents any "relative movement" between the optical barrier "B" and its support.

[0074] The adjustment system includes 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 sliding extension or retraction from the second containment chamber "C2" parallel to the main direction development “X” between a maximum extraction position and a minimum extraction position.

[0076] As shown in Figure IB, in the maximum extraction position, the first end 300a is away from the main containment body 200. On the other hand, as shown in Figure IA, in the minimum extraction position, the first end 300a is closer to the main containment 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 containment body 200, and more specifically from the upper closing plug 201, by a distance "D" 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 development direction "X", greater than the length, along the main development direction "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.

[0081] As can be seen in the embodiment shown in the accompanying figures, and in particular in [Fig. 5], an outer lateral surface of the extruded adjustment profile 300 is counterformed with respect to an inner lateral surface of the second containment chamber “C2”.

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

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

[0084] 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.

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

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

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

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

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

[0090] Preferably, the central portion 400c is counter-formed with respect to an inner lateral surface of the extruded adjustment profile 300 so as to prevent rotation of the locking bar 400 with respect 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-form 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 on which it is possible to screw an insert having a polygonal shape, preferably hexagonal, counter-formed with respect to an inner lateral surface of the extruded adjustment profile 300.

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

[0094] The locking mechanism further includes a braking means 500 operationally 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 blocking position, in which it interferes with at least one inner side wall of the second containment chamber "C2" to block the extruded adjustment profile 300 in the adjustment position, and a release position, in which it no longer interferes to allow the extruded adjustment profile 300 to slide.

[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 extruded adjustment 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 extruded adjustment profile 300 from sliding.

[0098] If the position of the extruded adjustment profile 300 needs to be readjusted, 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 containment chamber "C2".

[0099] From now on, reference will be made to the example 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 a sliding motion to be extracted or retracted into the second containment 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 fixed 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 inside the extruded adjustment 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 exerts a deforming action on the braking means 500 so as to cause it to expand, causing the braking means 500 to move into the locking position, i.e., it interferes with at least one lateral 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 expansion of the latter. In this situation, by expanding, the braking means 500 exerts a thrust on the inner lateral wall of the second containment chamber "C2" which prevents the braking means 500 from sliding along the second containment chamber "C2" and, consequently, from sliding the extruded adjusting 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 to 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 return to its original shape and dimensions. In this situation, the braking means 500 ceases its pushing action on the inner side wall of the second containment chamber "C2" and becomes free to slide again inside the second containment chamber "C2" with the extruded adjusting 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 containment chamber “C2” and the braking means 500 is in the release position.

[0113] Once the extruded adjusting profile 300 has been extracted or retracted so that its first end 300a is at a desired distance from the main containment body 200, i.e., so that the extruded adjusting profile 300 takes the desired adjusting position, the locking bar 400 is slid inside the extruded adjusting 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 exerts a deformation action on the braking means 500. In this situation, the braking means 500 deforms, in particular by expanding, and moves 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 containment chamber “C2”. In this situation, the braking means 500 acts as a retaining block and prevents the extruded adjustment profile 300 from sliding along the second containment 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 totally inserted inside the braking means 500 to cause its deformation, 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. Conversely, 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 plug 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 plug 204 and passing through the braking means 500 itself.

[0118] In the illustrated embodiment, the braking means 500 includes a through hole 501 of constant diameter extending parallel to the main development direction "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 includes a profiled portion 401 having a progressively increasing cross-section up to a dimension greater than one dimension of the 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 can be reversibly attached to the central portion 400c.

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

[0122] Preferably, the profiled portion 401 has a diameter that increases gradually from a diameter smaller than the diameter of the through hole 501 to a diameter larger than the diameter of the through hole 501.

[0123] As shown in Figure 2B, since the profiled portion 401 has an increasing cross-section, as the profiled portion 401 is progressively inserted into the through hole 501 of constant cross-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 accompanying figures, between the profiled portion 401 and the central portion 400c, the locking bar 400 comprises an intermediate portion 400d with a substantially circular cross-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 released 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 one possible embodiment, the locking bar 400 can move from the locking configuration to the release configuration, and vice versa, by means of a manual action by an operator who grasps the first end 400a of the locking bar 400 and slides the latter so as to move away (in case of locking) or closer (in case 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 by means of a safety mechanism also useful for ensuring that the locking bar 400 does not accidentally switch from the locking configuration to the release configuration, as will be described below.

[0127] The safety mechanism includes 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 does indeed include 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 can be reversibly secured to the central portion 400c.

[0131] Preferably, the threaded portion 402 has, in cross-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 includes 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 included between the threaded portion 402 and the central portion 400c.

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

[0135] As shown in Figures 3A and 3B, the box-shaped body 601 defines a containment volume for the stop element 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 includes a clamping component 602 in contact with the threaded portion 402.

[0139] Preferably, the clamping component 602 includes a nut that can be screwed along the threaded portion 402.

[0140] Preferably, the clamping component 602 is fitted 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 can be actuated, for example manually, by an operator, to cause a 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 extruded adjusting profile 300.

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

[0144] In other words, the bottom wall 601a and the top wall 601b define respective end stops for the stop element 600 during its movement in the containment 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 operational 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 operating 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 move from the locking configuration to the release 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 made 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 released configuration so as to allow the extruded adjustment profile 300 (with the braking means 500) to slide inside the second containment chamber “C2”.

[0150] Once the extruded adjustment profile 300 has been extracted or retracted from the second containment chamber "C2" so that it 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 displacement of the stop 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 slides progressively inside the extruded adjustment profile 300 so that the profiled portion 401 is progressively inserted into the braking means 500, deforming it.

[0153] Once the stop element 600 is abutted 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 position to the locking position. In this situation, the profiled portion 401 is fully inserted inside the braking means 500, which has expanded, blocking the sliding of the extruded adjusting profile 300 inside the second containment chamber "C2". In this situation, the clamping component 602 engages with the threaded portion 402 and prevents the locking bar 400 from accidentally moving from the locking position to the release position. This completes the adjustment of the positioning of the optical barrier "B", which is integrated into the main containment body 200, and no further adjustment is required.

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

[0155] In particular, the present invention avoids that there is relative movement (and therefore that adjustment is necessary) between the optical barrier and the support that 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 allows a single operator to install and adjust the positioning of the optical barrier inside the elevator.

Claims

Demands

1. Device (100) for installing an optical barrier (B) for elevators comprising: - a main containment body (200) extending along a main development direction (X) and defining a first containment chamber (Cl) and a second containment chamber (C2) placed side by side along a direction transverse to the main development direction (X); - an optical barrier (B) integrated into said first containment chamber (Cl) so as to emit a plurality of optical rays outwards from said main containment 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 away from said main containment body (200), and a minimum extraction position, in which said first end (300a) is closer to said main containment body (200);- a locking mechanism configured to block 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 adjusting profile (300) such that said first and second ends (400a, 400b) protrude respectively from the first and second ends (300a, 300b) of the profile

3.

4. extraded adjustment (300), said locking bar (400) being movable in sliding parallel to the main direction of development (X); - a braking means (500) operationally connected to said extruded adjustment 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 extruded adjustment profile (300) in said adjustment position, and a release position, in which said interference ceases to allow the sliding of the extruded adjustment 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 contact with said second end (400b) of the locking bar (400), said braking means (500) being elastically deformable; and in which said locking bar (400) is mobile in sliding between a locking configuration, in which said second end (400b) applies a deforming action on the braking means (500) so as to cause an expansion 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 an elastic return so that said braking means (500) takes 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 totally inserted inside the braking means (500) to cause its deformation, 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 progressively increasing cross-section up to a dimension greater than one dimension of the diameter of said through hole (501) such 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, wherein said profiled portion (401) has a truncated cone conformation.

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) engaging with the threaded portion (402) and capable of being actuated to cause a displacement of said stop element (600) within the containment volume between a rest position, in which it rests on a bottom wall (601a) of the box-shaped body (601) opposite the first end (300a) of said extruded adjusting profile (300), to an operational position, in which it comes into contact with an upper wall (601b) of the box-shaped body (601) opposite, along the main development direction (X), the bottom wall (601a).;

8. Device according to claim 7, wherein, in use, a movement of the stop element (600) from the rest position to the operational position corresponds to a movement of the bar of blocking (400) from release configuration to blocking configuration.

9. Device according to claim 7 or 8, wherein said stop element (600) comprises a Seeger ring.

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

11. Device according to any one of claims 7 to 10, wherein said clamping component (602) comprises a nut that can be screwed along the threaded portion (402).

12. Device according to any one of claims 7 to 11, wherein said box-shaped body (601) includes an opening (603) made in a side wall of the box-shaped body (601) and configured to allow an operator to see said stop element (600).

13. Device according to any one of claims 2 to 12, wherein said locking bar (400) is movable in relative sliding with respect 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 cross-section, a polygonal shape, preferably hexagonal, said central portion (400c) being counter-formed with respect to an inner surface of the extruded adjustment profile (300) so as to prevent rotation of said locking bar (400) with respect 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. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein an outer lateral surface of said extruded adjustment profile (300) is counterformed with respect to an inner lateral surface of said second containment chamber (C2).

17. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said extruded adjustment profile (300) has, in cross-section, an essentially 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 containment chamber (Cl).

20. Device according to claim 19, wherein said first containment chamber (Cl) is divided into a first and a second sub-volumes (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 principal development direction (X), said first sub-volume (VI), said second sub-volume (V2) and said second containment 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 containment chamber (C2).

22. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, 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 a top closure plug (201) configured to close superiorly, at least partially, the first and second containment chambers (C1, C2), said top closure plug (201) comprising a through hole (202) configured to permit the passage of connecting cables between the optical barrier (B) and operating electronics, and a passage seat (203) configured to permit sliding movement from said second containment chamber (C2) of the extruded adjustment profile (300).

24. Device according to claim 23, wherein said upper closure 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) includes a lower closing plug (204) configured to lowerally close, at least partially, the first and second containment chambers (Cl, C2).

26. 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 plug (204) includes a projection (204a) which extends away from the lower closure plug (204) itself, externally to the first and second containment chambers (Cl), (C2).

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