Tension adjustment device and tension adjustment method

Abstract

To assist workers in easily adjusting rope tension. [Solution] The tension adjustment device of the embodiment is a tension adjustment device used for adjusting the tension of multiple ropes provided in an elevator, and comprises: multiple measuring instruments provided in the hitch section to which the ends of the multiple ropes are connected, corresponding to each of the multiple ropes, for measuring the tension of each of the multiple ropes; a display unit provided in the hitch section; and a control unit that identifies the rope to be adjusted from among the multiple ropes based on the measurement results of the multiple measuring instruments, calculates the amount of adjustment for the rope to be adjusted, and displays the position and amount of adjustment of the rope to be adjusted on the display unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a tension adjustment device and a tension adjustment method.

Background Art

[0002] A plurality of ropes are attached to an elevator car and a counterweight, and are adjusted so that the tension is uniform. In adjusting the tension of the ropes, it is difficult to identify the ropes that need adjustment and to determine the amount of adjustment. In addition, it is necessary to adjust each rope in an appropriate order according to the magnitude of the tension.

[0003] For example, in Patent Document 1, while supporting the load applied to the rope by a gripping portion provided in a tension adjustment device, a splicing ring for measuring the tension of the rope is inserted, and the load is applied to the rope again. While looking at the measurement result of the measuring instrument attached to the splicing ring, the tension applied to each rope is adjusted so as to be uniform.

[0004] Also, in Patent Document 2, using a tension sensor provided for each rope and a display corresponding to each rope, when the tension of a predetermined rope drops below a reference value, the corresponding display turns off and gives an alarm.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] However, the configuration described in Patent Document 1 requires complicated steps, such as inserting a measuring joint. Furthermore, in actual tension adjustment, the worker must compare the measurement results of multiple ropes with each other and sequentially adjust the tension of the ropes that require adjustment in the appropriate order.

[0007] Furthermore, the configuration described in Patent Document 2 aims to detect and notify of ropes that require adjustment, but it does not specify the order in which these ropes should be adjusted or by what amount. In addition, the configuration described in Patent Document 2 can only identify ropes whose tension has fallen below a standard value among multiple ropes, and it is not possible to know the relative tensions or variations among the individual ropes.

[0008] The problem that this embodiment aims to solve is to provide a tension adjustment device and a tension adjustment method that can easily adjust the tension of a rope in assistance to an operator. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] The tension adjustment device of the embodiment is a tension adjustment device used for adjusting the tension of a plurality of ropes provided in an elevator, and comprises: a plurality of measuring instruments provided in a hitch section to which the ends of the plurality of ropes are connected, corresponding to each of the plurality of ropes, for measuring the tension of each of the plurality of ropes; a display unit provided in the hitch section; and a control unit that identifies the rope to be adjusted from among the plurality of ropes based on the measurement results of the plurality of measuring instruments, calculates the amount of adjustment for the rope to be adjusted, and displays the position of the rope to be adjusted and the amount of adjustment on the display unit. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of an elevator according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a perspective view showing the overall configuration of the hitch according to the embodiment. [Figure 3]Figure 3 is a perspective view of the rod of the hitch portion according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a tension adjustment device according to an embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the physical configuration of a tension adjustment device according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure for adjusting tension using the tension adjustment device according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the physical configuration of a tension adjustment device according to a modified embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of an elevator according to another embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] The present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below. Furthermore, the components in the embodiments described below include those that are easily conceivable by those skilled in the art or that are substantially identical.

[0012] [Embodiment] The embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0013] (Example of elevator configuration) Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of elevator 1 according to the embodiment. As an example of elevator 1 in the embodiment, Figure 1 shows a one-to-one rope-type elevator.

[0014] As shown in Figure 1, the elevator 1 is installed in a hoistway 80 having, for example, a machine room 82 on the upper floor, and comprises a main rope 2, a car 3, a counterweight 4, hitch sections 5a, 5b, and a hoisting machine 7.

[0015] The hoistway 80 is provided vertically within a building where the elevator 1 is installed. In the machine room 82, a hoisting machine 7 for moving the car 3 vertically is installed.

[0016] The main rope 2 is, for example, a resin-coated rope or the like, and although not shown in the figure, a plurality of them are used together. Each of the plurality of main ropes 2 has one end connected to the car 3 and the other end connected to the counterweight 4, and is spanned over a hoisting machine 7 having a plurality of pulleys between the car 3 and the counterweight 4.

[0017] The car 3 is configured to be able to move up and down within the hoistway 80 by the hoisting machine 7 winding up one end or the other end of the main rope 2. Thereby, the car 3 can move to the landing of the target floor.

[0018] A hitch portion 5a is provided at the connection portion of the main rope 2 with the car 3, and a hitch portion 5b is provided at the connection portion of the main rope 2 with the counterweight 4. The hitch portions 5a and 5b have the function of keeping the tension of the plurality of main ropes 2 uniform and suppressing vibrations of the car 3 and the like. By connecting the main rope 2 to the car 3 and the counterweight 4 via these hitch portions 5a and 5b respectively, the riding comfort of the car 3 can be improved.

[0019] [[ID=十六]]As will be described in detail below, the hitch portion 5a on the car 3 side and the hitch portion 5b on the counterweight 4 side can be configured in the same way, for example. Hereinafter, when these hitch portions 5a and 5b are not distinguished, they are simply referred to as the hitch portion 5.

[0020] (Configuration example of the hitch portion) Next, with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3, a configuration example of the hitch portion 5 included in the elevator 1 of the embodiment will be described. The hitch portion 5 of the embodiment includes a tension adjustment device used when adjusting the tension of the main rope 2.

[0021] Figure 2 is a perspective view showing the overall configuration of the hitch section 5 according to the embodiment. Figure 3 is a perspective view of the rod 50 of the hitch section 5 according to the embodiment.

[0022] As shown in Figure 2, the hitch section 5 is provided on the upper beam section 30, which includes the end of the main rope 2 and constitutes a part of the elevator car 3 or the counterweight 4.

[0023] A hitch plate 51 is provided on the underside of the upper beam 30, that is, between the upper beam 30 and the upper surface of a train car 3 (not shown) or counterweight 4, at a predetermined distance from the underside of the upper beam 30. Multiple main ropes 2 pass through these upper beams 30 and hitch plate 51 and terminate further below the hitch plate 51, that is, in the space between the upper beams 30 and the upper surface of the train car 3 or counterweight 4. The multiple main ropes 2 are arranged in a matrix, for example, in multiple rows and multiple columns, within the plane of these upper beams 30 and hitch plate 51.

[0024] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, each end of the main rope 2 extending downward from the hitch plate 51 is provided with a spring retainer 52, a spring retainer plate 53, a coil spring 54, an adjustment screw 55, and an adjustment nut 56. The configuration including the spring retainer 52, spring retainer plate 53, coil spring 54, adjustment screw 55, and adjustment nut 56 at the end of the main rope 2 is also referred to as the rod 50.

[0025] The spring support 52 is an elastic member such as a hollow rubber material and is attached to the lower surface of the hitch plate 51. The spring support 52 mitigates vibrations of the elevator car 3 during operations such as raising, lowering, and stopping by elastically deforming.

[0026] Below the spring retainer 52, a coil spring 54 is provided, with both ends sandwiched between spring retainer plates 53. An adjustment screw 55 and an adjustment nut 56 are provided on the lower end side of the coil spring 54.

[0027] The main rope 2 is inserted through the hollow spring retainer 52, the spring retainer plate 53, and the center of the coil spring 54. An adjustment screw 55 with threads is attached to the end of the main rope 2, and an adjustment nut 56 is fitted onto it.

[0028] The coil spring 54 provided on the main rope 2 can follow the load fluctuations on the main rope 2 during operations such as raising, lowering, and stopping of the elevator car 3, and maintain a constant tension on the main rope 2.

[0029] The adjustment nut 56 has, for example, a double nut structure and is configured to allow adjustment of the tension of each main rope 2. Specifically, by rotating the adjustment nut 56 clockwise or counterclockwise, the adjustment nut 56 can be moved vertically on the adjustment screw 55 attached to the end of the main rope 2.

[0030] Rotating the adjustment nut 56 in a predetermined direction moves it upward, pushing up the spring receiving plate 53 at the lower end of the coil spring 54, compressing the coil spring 54 and increasing the tension of the main rope 2. Rotating the adjustment nut 56 in the opposite direction moves it downward, causing the coil spring 54 to extend, pushing down the spring receiving plate 53 at the lower end of the coil spring 54 and weakening the tension of the main rope 2.

[0031] However, in the tension adjustment of the main rope 2 described later, adjustments to reduce the tension are not usually made in order to avoid damaging the main rope 2.

[0032] The hitch section 5 of this embodiment is also provided with a tension adjustment device used to adjust the tension of each main rope 2. The tension adjustment device comprises a measuring instrument 62 and a display 63 provided on each of the main ropes 2, and a control unit 61 that controls these measuring instruments 62 and display 63.

[0033] The measuring instrument 62 is installed on the surface of the spring support 52 on each of the main ropes 2. The measuring instrument 62 is, for example, a strain sensor or a displacement meter using a laser, and is configured to measure the stress applied to the spring support 52, and consequently the tension applied to the main rope 2, from the amount of deformation of the spring support 52, which is made of rubber or the like.

[0034] The indicators 63 are provided attached to each rod 50. As an example, in Figures 2 and 3, the indicators 63 are provided on the spring receivers 52 of each rod 50. However, the indicators 63 only need to be provided in a position where a worker adjusting the tension of the main rope 2 can see the indicator 63 corresponding to each main rope 2. In this case, it is preferable that these indicators 63 are provided in a position where the entirety of each indicator 63 can be seen.

[0035] Each display unit 63 is configured to include, for example, a light-emitting diode (LED) and is capable of emitting light in various ways. Examples of the light emission modes of the display unit 63 include emitting light in multiple different colors, switching between constant illumination and flashing, and flashing at different intervals. The display unit 63 can emit light in at least one of these modes.

[0036] These indicators 63 are an example of multiple light-emitting units attached to each of the multiple main ropes 2.

[0037] The control unit 61 is installed, for example, on the upper surface of the hitch plate 51. However, the installation location of the control unit 61 is not limited to this, and it can be installed at any location on the hitch section 5. Thus, it is preferable that the control unit 61 be installed in close proximity to the hitch section 5, but it may also be installed, for example, in the machine room 82 (see Figure 1), or in the monitoring center of the elevator 1, and configured to allow remote operation of the measuring instrument 62 and the display unit 63.

[0038] The control unit 61 obtains the tension measurement results of each main rope 2 from measuring instruments 62 provided on each rod 50, and determines whether the variation in tension in these main ropes 2 meets a predetermined standard value. If there is a main rope 2 whose tension is outside the standard value, the indicator 63 corresponding to that main rope 2 is illuminated in a manner corresponding to the degree of deviation from the standard value of tension.

[0039] (Example of a tension adjustment device configuration) Next, an example of the configuration of the tension adjustment device 60 provided in the elevator 1 of this embodiment will be described using Figures 4 and 5.

[0040] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the tension adjustment device 60 according to the embodiment. Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the physical configuration of the tension adjustment device 60 according to the embodiment.

[0041] In Figure 5, for example, one row of rods 50 (rods A to rods E) is shown extracted from a plurality of rods 50 arranged in a matrix. Above the hitch plate 51, the shackle rods 57 attached to each of the main ropes 2 are suspension fittings that connect each of these main ropes 2 vertically. These shackle rods 57 may also be included in the rods 50 described above.

[0042] As shown in Figure 4 and as described above, the tension adjustment device 60 comprises a control unit 61, a plurality of measuring instruments 62, and a plurality of indicators 63. As shown in Figure 5, the control unit 61 is connected to each of the plurality of measuring instruments 62 and the plurality of indicators 63.

[0043] The control unit 61 is configured as a computer, for example, equipped with a CPU (Central Processing Unit), ROM (Read Only Memory), and RAM (Random Access Memory), etc. (not shown).

[0044] The CPU, for example, loads a control program stored in ROM into RAM and executes it, thereby realizing functional units such as the acquisition unit 611, the calculation unit 612, and the display control unit 613 in the control unit 611. However, some or all of these functional units may be realized by a dedicated ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit).

[0045] The acquisition unit 611 acquires the measurement results of the tension of the main rope 2 corresponding to the multiple measuring instruments 62.

[0046] The calculation unit 612 determines from the measurement results of the measuring instrument 62 whether the tension of these main ropes 2 meets a predetermined standard value. For example, the calculation unit 612 identifies the maximum and minimum values ​​of the tension of the multiple main ropes 2 and determines whether the value obtained by dividing the minimum value by the maximum value exceeds the predetermined standard value (minimum value ÷ maximum value > standard value).

[0047] If the result of dividing the maximum and minimum tension values ​​of the main rope 2 by a standard value is less than or equal to a standard value, it indicates that the variation in the maximum and minimum tension values ​​of the main rope 2 is large enough to require adjustment. Therefore, the calculation unit 612 calculates the amount of tension adjustment for the main rope 2 that shows the minimum tension value. The amount of tension adjustment for the main rope 2 is calculated using, for example, the number of rotations of the adjustment nut 56 attached to the main rope 2, using the following formula (1).

[0048]

number

[0049] n: Number of rotations of adjustment nut 56 [times] Fmax: The maximum tension among multiple main ropes [N] Fmin: The minimum tension among the multiple main ropes 2 [N] K: Equivalent stiffness of hitch section 5 [N / m] p: Pitch of adjustment screw 55 [mm]

[0050] The equivalent stiffness K of the hitch portion 5 in equation (1) above is the stiffness equivalent to the overall stiffness of the hitch portion 5, which has various components, and is calculated in advance by the following equation (2).

[0051]

number

[0052] K R : Spring constant [N / m] of the total length of main rope 2 K h Spring constant of hitch plate 51 [N / m]

[0053] Furthermore, the spring constant K of the total length of the main rope 2 in equation (2) above. R This is calculated in advance using the following formula (3).

[0054]

number

[0055] Kr: Spring constant per unit length of main rope 2 [(N / m) / m] H: Height difference [m] when elevator car 3 is raised or lowered.

[0056] The display control unit 613 controls the lighting / exiting and illumination patterns of each display unit 63 based on the calculation results from the calculation unit 612. More specifically, if the result of dividing the maximum and minimum tension values ​​of the main rope 2 is less than or equal to a reference value, the display control unit 613 illuminates the display unit 63 corresponding to the main rope 2 that shows the minimum tension value in a manner that indicates the number of rotations of the adjustment nut 56 required to adjust the tension of that main rope 2.

[0057] In other words, for example, if the number of rotations of the adjustment nut 56 is indicated by the color of the light emitted by the indicator 63, the number of rotations of the adjustment nut 56 corresponding to the color can be predetermined, such as red for 7 rotations, blue for 5 rotations, yellow for 3 rotations, etc. The display control unit 613 lights up the target indicator 63 in the color corresponding to the number of rotations calculated by the calculation unit 612.

[0058] For example, if the number of rotations of the adjustment nut 56 is indicated by the blinking cycle of the indicator 63, the number of rotations of the adjustment nut 56 can be predetermined according to the blinking cycle, such as 7 rotations for the fastest blinking, 5 rotations for the medium blinking, and 3 rotations for the slow blinking. The display control unit 613 blinks the target indicator 63 at a cycle corresponding to the number of rotations calculated by the calculation unit 612.

[0059] Alternatively, when the number of rotations of the adjustment nut 56 is indicated by the flashing of the indicator 63, the number of rotations of the adjustment nut 56 may be indicated by flashing multiple times in a row with a predetermined period of time in between. In other words, the number of rotations of the adjustment nut 56 can be predetermined according to the number of consecutive flashes, such as 7 rotations for 3 consecutive flashes with a predetermined period of time in between, 5 rotations for 2 consecutive flashes, and 3 rotations for a single flash. The display control unit 613 flashes the target indicator 63 the number of times corresponding to the number of rotations calculated by the calculation unit 612.

[0060] In this embodiment, the tension adjustment device 60 illuminates the indicator 63 corresponding to the main rope 2 whose tension is at its minimum value, indicating the required number of rotations. The operator can adjust the tension of the main rope 2 by rotating the adjustment nut 56 of the main rope 2 whose indicator 63 is lit by the number of rotations indicated by the indicator 63. When the tension of the main rope 2 is adjusted to meet the standard value, the corresponding indicator 63 turns off.

[0061] Here, if the tension of main rope 2, which has shown the minimum tension as described above, is increased, another main rope 2 may also show a minimum tension that falls outside the standard value.

[0062] We will explain several cases using the five rods 50 shown in Figure 5 (referred to as rods A, B, C, D, and E from left to right on the page) as an example.

[0063] As shown in Figure 5, the tensions of the multiple rods A to E are initially in the order, for example, A > B > C > D > E, and the value obtained by dividing the tension of rod E, which shows the minimum value, by the tension of rod A, which shows the maximum value, is less than or equal to the reference value. In this case, the indicator 63 corresponding to rod E illuminates in a manner that indicates the required number of rotations of the adjustment nut 56, and the worker adjusts the tension of the main rope 2 of rod E according to the indication.

[0064] When the tension of the main rope 2 of rod E deviates from its minimum value due to this tension adjustment, the order of the tensions of the other rods B to D may either remain unchanged from the original (e.g., rod B>C>D) or change from the original (e.g., rod B>D>C). This is because adjusting one main rope 2 (in this case, the main rope 2 of rod E) changes the overall tension balance of multiple rods 50 arranged in a matrix, for example.

[0065] Therefore, the tension adjustment device 60 of the embodiment repeats the above operation while adjusting the tension of the main ropes 2 until the tension of all main ropes 2 meets the reference value. That is, the operation of remeasuring the tension of each main rope 2, identifying the rod 50 that shows the maximum and minimum tension values ​​at that time, determining whether the maximum and minimum values ​​meet the reference value, and if the reference value is not met, illuminating the indicator 63 of the rod 50 that shows the minimum tension value at that time is repeated.

[0066] The worker proceeds to adjust the tension of one or more main ropes 2 in order, according to the display on each indicator 63.

[0067] When the tension of all main ropes 2 meets the standard value, the display control unit 613 turns off all indicators 63. This allows the worker to know that the tension adjustment is complete.

[0068] (Tension adjustment method) Next, a tension adjustment method using the tension adjustment device 60 of the embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 6. Figure 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure for the tension adjustment method using the tension adjustment device 60 according to the embodiment.

[0069] In the elevator 1 of this embodiment, for example, tension adjustment is performed using the tension adjustment device 60 with the elevator car 3 positioned near the middle of the hoistway 80 (see Figure 1).

[0070] As shown in Figure 6, the calculation unit 612 of the control unit 61 extracts the maximum and minimum values ​​of the tension of the multiple main ropes 2 from the measurement results acquired by the acquisition unit 611 from the individual measuring instruments 62, and also identifies the rod 50 position of the main rope 2 with the maximum tension and the rod 50 position of the main rope 2 with the minimum tension (step S101).

[0071] The calculation unit 612 determines whether the value obtained by dividing the minimum value extracted from the tensions of the multiple main ropes 2 by the maximum value exceeds a predetermined reference value (step S102). If the value obtained by dividing the maximum and minimum values ​​exceeds the reference value (step S102: Yes), the process is terminated.

[0072] If the division of the maximum and minimum values ​​is less than or equal to the reference value (Step S102: No), the number of rotations of the adjustment nut 56 required to adjust the tension of the main rope 2, which showed the minimum tension, is calculated using the above formula (1) (Step S103).

[0073] The display control unit 613 illuminates the indicator 63 corresponding to the main rope 2 that has the minimum tension, as identified by the calculation unit 612, in a manner that indicates the number of rotations of the adjustment nut 56 calculated by the calculation unit 612 (step S104). In response, the operator adjusts the tension of the main rope 2, whose indicator 63 is illuminating, by rotating the adjustment nut 56 by the number of rotations corresponding to the illumination pattern of the indicator 63.

[0074] As described above, while the tension adjustment work is being performed by the worker, the tension of each main rope 2 changes over time. Therefore, the tension adjustment device 60 continues to monitor the tension of these main ropes 2 (step S105).

[0075] In other words, the acquisition unit 611 continuously acquires measurement results from individual measuring instruments 62, and the calculation unit 612 appropriately determines whether the value obtained by dividing the minimum value extracted from the tensions of the multiple main ropes 2 by the maximum value exceeds a reference value (step S106). The calculation unit 612 repeats the process from step S103 as long as the current maximum and minimum values ​​are less than or equal to the reference value (step S106: No). If the acquired maximum and minimum values ​​exceed the reference value (step S106: Yes), the display control unit 613 turns off all the indicators 63 (step S107).

[0076] With the above steps completed, the tension adjustment process using the tension adjustment device 60 of the embodiment is finished.

[0077] Furthermore, as described above, it is preferable to position the elevator car 3 near the middle of the elevator shaft 80, perform the above process, raise and lower the elevator car 3 multiple times, and then perform the above process again to fine-tune the tension of the main rope 2. This is because the tension of each main rope 2 may fluctuate further due to the raising and lowering movement of the elevator car 3. By repeating the raising and lowering of the elevator car 3 and the tension adjustment of the main rope 2 by the above process several times, the tension of the main rope 2 can be adjusted with higher precision.

[0078] However, by using the tension adjustment device 60 of the embodiment, real-time measurement of each main rope 2 becomes possible, and the state of each main rope 2 after adjusting a predetermined main rope 2 can be checked as appropriate. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the number of repetitions of raising and lowering the elevator car 3 and adjusting the tension of the main rope 2 by the above process.

[0079] (Overview) An elevator, for example, is equipped with multiple main ropes, each of which is connected to a car and a counterweight. In addition, a hitch section with a spring member or the like is interposed at the end of each main rope to maintain uniform tension across the multiple main ropes.

[0080] However, if the tension of the main ropes is uneven, the load on each main rope will be unevenly distributed, which may reduce the durability of certain main ropes and shorten their lifespan. In addition, vibrations associated with the raising, lowering, and stopping of the elevator car may not be adequately mitigated, potentially worsening the ride comfort of the elevator car.

[0081] Therefore, during installation, tension adjustments are made to ensure that the tension is uniform among the multiple main ropes. At this time, the adjustments are made sequentially, starting with the main rope with the weakest tension, until the entire set of main ropes reaches a tension that meets the standard value.

[0082] However, workers must measure the tension of each of the numerous main ropes, identify the ones that need adjustment, and make those adjustments. Furthermore, adjusting one main rope changes the overall balance, requiring the main rope to be identified each time. Additionally, if the tension of a main rope with maximum tension is accidentally loosened, the twist in the main rope may unravel, potentially damaging it. Moreover, the tension of the main ropes must be adjusted each time the elevator car is raised or lowered, and the above process must be repeated until the tension of all main ropes meets the standard value.

[0083] Thus, adjusting the tension of the main rope requires numerous complicated steps and a wide range of verification items, demanding a certain level of skill. For example, it is a difficult task for inexperienced workers. Determining how many turns of the adjustment nut are needed to achieve the correct tension based on the tension measurement results of the main rope being adjusted is also a challenging task.

[0084] According to the tension adjustment device 60 of this embodiment, the hitch section 5 to which the ends of the multiple main ropes 2 are connected is equipped with multiple measuring instruments 62 corresponding to each of the multiple main ropes 2, for measuring the tension of each of the multiple main ropes 2.

[0085] In this way, since multiple measuring instruments 62 are pre-installed on the hitch section 5, real-time tension measurement becomes possible, and the tension of each individual main rope 2, which changes moment by moment, can be monitored while the adjustment work is being carried out. Therefore, the tension adjustment work becomes easier.

[0086] Furthermore, real-time measurement allows for understanding the state of the main rope 2 after adjustment, enabling more appropriate support for the worker.

[0087] The tension adjustment device 60 of this embodiment includes a control unit 61 that identifies a main rope 2 to be adjusted from among a plurality of main ropes 2 based on the measurement results of a plurality of measuring instruments 62, calculates the amount of adjustment for the main rope 2 to be adjusted, and displays the position and amount of adjustment of the main rope 2 to be adjusted on a display unit 63.

[0088] In this way, the position of the main rope 2 to be adjusted is clearly indicated, and the amount of adjustment is quantitatively presented, allowing workers to proceed with the work without relying on experience or intuition. This makes it easy to adjust the tension of the main rope 2 with the assistance of the worker. Therefore, even inexperienced workers can perform the work easily and safely.

[0089] According to the tension adjustment device 60 of the embodiment, if the variation of the tensions of the multiple main ropes 2, which is determined from the minimum and maximum values ​​of the tensions of the multiple main ropes 2, exceeds a reference value, the control unit 61 identifies the main rope 2 that shows the minimum tension as the main rope 2 to be adjusted.

[0090] This allows the operator to appropriately identify the main rope 2 to be adjusted from among the individual main ropes 2 whose tension changes moment by moment as the adjustment work progresses. Therefore, the operator can proceed with adjusting the tension of each main rope 2 in the correct order.

[0091] According to the tension adjustment device 60 of this embodiment, multiple measuring instruments 62 are provided on each of the multiple spring supports 52, and the stress applied to each of the multiple spring supports 52 is measured from the amount of deformation of each of the multiple spring supports 52.

[0092] In this way, since each measuring instrument 62 is provided on the spring receiver 52, these measuring instruments 62 can be permanently installed on the hitch section 5, enabling real-time measurement. Furthermore, since the measurement is performed based on the deformation of the spring receiver 52, the tension of the main rope 2 can be easily measured.

[0093] According to the tension adjustment device 60 of this embodiment, each indicator 63 is attached to each of the multiple main ropes 2, and the control unit 61 displays the position of the main rope 2 to be adjusted by illuminating the indicator 63 corresponding to the main rope 2 to be adjusted. This allows the operator to intuitively grasp the position of the main rope 2 to be adjusted.

[0094] According to the tension adjustment device 60 of this embodiment, the control unit 61 displays the amount of tension adjustment of the main rope 2 by illuminating the display unit 63 corresponding to the main rope 2 to be adjusted in different ways according to the amount of tension adjustment of the main rope 2. This allows the operator to intuitively and quantitatively grasp the amount of tension adjustment of the main rope 2 to be adjusted.

[0095] In the above embodiment, the indicator 63 corresponding to the main rope 2 showing the minimum tension is illuminated in a predetermined manner. However, the indicator 63 corresponding to the main rope 2 showing the maximum tension may also be illuminated in a manner that indicates that the tension of that main rope 2 was at its maximum. By displaying the main rope 2 with the maximum tension, it becomes easier for the worker to grasp the overall tension balance of the multiple main ropes 2, allowing for more efficient work. It also serves as a reminder to the worker not to loosen the tension of that main rope 2.

[0096] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the tension data measured by the measuring instrument 62 is used for calculations in the calculation unit 612, and a portion of it is displayed to the operator by the display unit 63. However, in addition to this, the tension adjustment device 60 may be configured to transmit the measurement results from the measuring instrument 62 and various calculation results from the calculation unit 612 to a monitoring center or data center of the elevator 1. The monitoring center can enhance the monitoring of the elevator 1 based on this data. The data center can also store this data and utilize it as statistical data.

[0097] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the number of rotations of the adjustment nut 56 is calculated from the maximum and minimum values ​​of the tension of the main rope 2 using equation (1). However, the method for calculating the number of rotations of the adjustment nut 56 is not limited to this. For example, the number of rotations of the adjustment nut 56 may be calculated using the average value of the tension of all the main ropes 2, for example, using the following equation (4).

[0098]

number

[0099] n': Number of rotations of adjustment nut 56 [times] Fave::Average value of tension of multiple main ropes 2[N] K: Equivalent stiffness of hitch section 5 [N / m] p: Pitch of adjustment screw 55 [mm]

[0100] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the pitch p of the adjustment screw 55 and the spring constant K of the hitch plate 51 are... h The spring constant Kr per unit length of the main rope 2 and the height difference H during the ascent and descent of the elevator car 3 are assumed to be known values, and the equivalent stiffness K of the hitch section 5 and the spring constant K of the entire length of the main rope 2, which are necessary for calculating equation (1), are also assumed. R These factors were to be calculated in advance using equations (2) and (3).

[0101] However, the control unit 61, for example, may be provided with an input section, or configured to allow connection of an input device, so that the above-mentioned numerical values ​​can be input from the input section or input device. Alternatively, the control unit 61 may be configured to automatically input these numerical values ​​by extracting information from the specifications of each elevator 1. In this case, it may be possible to appropriately select or input a calculation formula (for example, formula (1) or formula (4), etc.) for determining the rotational speed of the adjustment nut 56.

[0102] This allows the tension adjustment device 60 to be configured to accommodate elevators with different specifications for each property, without having to reinstall, for example, the control program of the control unit 61.

[0103] (modified version) Next, a modified version of the tension adjustment device of the embodiment will be described using Figure 7. The modified version of the tension adjustment device differs from the above-described embodiment in that it includes a display unit 163 that is used in common for multiple main ropes 2.

[0104] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the physical configuration of a tension adjustment device according to a modified embodiment. In Figure 7, components similar to those in the above-described embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions may be omitted.

[0105] As shown in Figure 7, the modified tension adjustment device includes a control unit 161 and a display unit 163 instead of the control unit 61 and display unit 63 described above. Furthermore, the modified tension adjustment device includes a plurality of identification units 164.

[0106] Each identification part 164 is, for example, a plate or seal attached to a plurality of rods 50, having an identification number or identification symbol that uniquely represents each rod 50. As an example, in Figure 7, the identification parts 164 are provided on the spring receivers 52 of each rod 50. However, the identification parts 164 only need to be positioned so that a worker adjusting the tension of the main ropes 2 can see the identification part 164 corresponding to each main rope 2. In this case, it is preferable that these identification parts 164 are positioned so that the entirety of each identification part 164 can be seen.

[0107] The display unit 163 is a liquid crystal display (LCD) or the like, and is installed, for example, on the upper surface of the hitch plate 51, in close proximity to the control unit 161. However, the installation location of the display unit 163 is not limited to this, and it can be installed at any location on the hitch section 5. In this case, it is preferable that the display unit 163 is installed in a position that is easily visible to the worker performing the tension adjustment work.

[0108] The control unit 161 is configured as a computer equipped with a CPU, ROM, RAM, etc., similar to the control unit 61 described above, and has functional units such as an acquisition unit, a calculation unit, and a display control unit that have the same functions as the control unit 61 described above.

[0109] However, in the modified version, the display control unit displays on the display unit 163 the identification number or identification symbol shown on the identification unit 164 of the main rope 2 to be adjusted, which has the minimum tension, and the number of rotations of the adjustment nut 56 required to adjust that main rope 2. In this way, the location of the main rope 2 to be adjusted is identified by displaying the identification number or identification symbol of the main rope 2 to be adjusted.

[0110] In addition, the display control unit of the modified version may display the identification number or identification symbol of the main rope 2 that has reached its maximum tension, along with this information regarding the main rope 2 to be adjusted.

[0111] The modified tension adjustment device includes a display unit 163 that is commonly used for multiple main ropes 2. This eliminates the need to provide a separate display unit for each individual main rope 2, allowing for a simpler tension adjustment device configuration. Furthermore, by using an LCD or the like as the display unit 163, the amount of information that can be displayed on the display unit 163 can be increased, providing greater support to the operator.

[0112] The modified tension adjustment device also provides the same effects as the tension adjustment device 60 of the above-described embodiment.

[0113] [Other embodiments] In the embodiments and modifications described above, the elevator is assumed to be a one-to-one roped elevator. However, the configuration of the elevator to which the tension adjustment device of the embodiments or modifications can be applied is not limited to this. As an example of another elevator, a two-to-one roped elevator is shown in Figure 8.

[0114] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of an elevator according to another embodiment.

[0115] As shown in Figure 8, the elevator of the other embodiment is installed in a hoistway 90 having a machine room 92 on the upper floor, and comprises a main rope 22, a car 23, a counterweight 24, hitch sections 25a, 25b, and a hoisting machine 27.

[0116] The main ropes 22 are, for example, resin-coated ropes, and although not shown in the diagram, multiple ropes are used together. Each of the multiple main ropes 22 has both ends connected to the floor of the machine room 92 and is stretched in this order to a pulley provided on the upper surface of the elevator car 23, a hoisting machine 27 provided in the machine room 92 and having multiple pulleys, and a pulley provided at the upper end of the counterweight 24.

[0117] The hoisting machine 27 winds up one or the other end of the main rope 22, thereby enabling the elevator car 23 to move up and down within the elevator shaft 90.

[0118] Hitch sections 25a and 25b are provided at the connection points of the main rope 22 to the floor of the machine room 92. Hitch section 25a corresponds to the elevator car 23, and hitch section 25b corresponds to the counterweight.

[0119] Thus, in a 2-to-1 rope-type elevator, hitch sections 25a and 25b can be interposed at the connection point between the floor of the machine room 82 and the main rope 22, and tension adjustment devices of the above-described embodiment or modified version can be provided on these hitch sections 25a and 25b.

[0120] In addition, some elevators are equipped with other ropes such as compensator ropes and governor ropes in addition to the main rope. In these elevators as well, a hitch is provided at the end of the main rope, and a tension adjustment device of the above embodiment or modified version can be installed at this part.

[0121] As described above, several embodiments of the present invention have been presented, but these embodiments are provided as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims of the invention and its equivalents. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0122] 1...Elevator, 2,22...Main rope, 3,23...Car, 4,24...Counterweight, 5a,5b,25a,25b...Hitch section, 50...Rod, 51...Hitch plate, 52...Spring retainer, 53...Spring retainer plate, 54...Coil spring, 55...Adjustment screw, 56...Adjustment nut, 60...Tension adjustment device, 61,161...Control unit, 62...Measuring instrument, 63,163...Display unit, 611...Acquisition unit, 612...Calculation unit, 613...Display control unit.

Claims

1. A tension adjustment device used for adjusting the tension of multiple ropes in an elevator, The hitch section to which the ends of the plurality of ropes are connected is provided with a plurality of measuring instruments corresponding to each of the plurality of ropes, for measuring the tension of each of the plurality of ropes, A display unit provided on the hitch portion, The system includes a control unit that, based on the measurement results of the multiple measuring instruments, identifies the rope to be adjusted from among the multiple ropes, calculates the amount of adjustment for the rope to be adjusted, and displays the position of the rope to be adjusted and the amount of adjustment on the display unit. Tension adjustment device.

2. The control unit, Based on the measurement results of the aforementioned multiple measuring instruments, the first rope that showed the minimum tension and the second rope that showed the maximum tension are identified among the aforementioned multiple ropes. If the variation of the multiple ropes, determined from the minimum and maximum values, exceeds a standard value, the first rope is identified as the rope to be adjusted. The tension adjustment device according to claim 1.

3. The control unit, The adjustment amount is calculated based on the minimum value and the maximum value. The tension adjustment device according to claim 2.

4. The control unit, If the variation of the multiple ropes exceeds the reference value, the position of the second rope, along with the position of the first rope and the adjustment amount, will be displayed on the indicator. The tension adjustment device according to claim 2.

5. The aforementioned hitch portion is Each of the aforementioned multiple ropes is provided with multiple coil springs, Multiple adjustment screws attached to the end of each of the aforementioned multiple ropes, Each of the aforementioned adjustment screws is attached to a plurality of adjustment nuts, which, when rotated in a predetermined direction, can increase the tension of the corresponding rope among the plurality of ropes, The control unit, The adjustment amount is calculated by determining the number of rotations of the adjustment nut. The tension adjustment device according to claim 1.

6. The aforementioned hitch portion is The hitch plate through which the aforementioned multiple ropes pass, The plurality of ropes each pass through the hitch plate and further comprises a plurality of elastic members interposed between the plurality of coil springs, The aforementioned multiple measuring instruments are Each of the aforementioned plurality of elastic members is provided with a device that measures the stress applied to each of the plurality of elastic members based on the amount of deformation of each of the plurality of elastic members. The tension adjustment device according to claim 5.

7. The aforementioned multiple measuring instruments are A strain sensor or displacement meter capable of measuring the amount of deformation of each of the aforementioned plurality of elastic members. The tension adjustment device according to claim 6.

8. The aforementioned display unit is Includes a plurality of light-emitting units attached to each of the plurality of ropes, The control unit, By illuminating the light-emitting unit corresponding to the rope to be adjusted among the plurality of light-emitting units, the position of the rope to be adjusted is indicated. The tension adjustment device according to claim 1.

9. The control unit, The light-emitting part corresponding to the rope to be adjusted is made to emit light in different ways according to the amount of adjustment, thereby indicating the amount of adjustment of the rope to be adjusted. The tension adjustment device according to claim 8.

10. The control unit, The light-emitting part corresponding to the rope to be adjusted, Depending on the adjustment amount, different colors of light are emitted. Depending on the adjustment amount, the blinking may occur at different intervals, or The adjustment amount of the rope to be adjusted is displayed by flashing the indicator a different number of times in succession according to the adjustment amount. The tension adjustment device according to claim 8.

11. A method for adjusting the tension of multiple ropes provided in an elevator using a tension adjustment device, The tension adjustment device comprises a plurality of measuring instruments, a display unit, and a control unit. The tension of each of the multiple ropes is measured by the multiple measuring instruments provided at the hitch portion to which the ends of the multiple ropes are connected, corresponding to each of the multiple ropes. The control unit identifies the rope to be adjusted from among the multiple ropes based on the measurement results of the multiple measuring instruments, and calculates the amount of adjustment for the rope to be adjusted. The indicator provided on the hitch displays the position of the rope to be adjusted and the amount of adjustment. Tension adjustment method.

12. During the tension adjustment of the aforementioned multiple ropes, The measurement of tension in the aforementioned multiple ropes, Identification of the rope to be adjusted, Calculation of the aforementioned adjustment amount, The display of the position of the rope to be adjusted and the amount of adjustment will continue. The tension adjustment method according to claim 11.

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