Handrail and method of manufacturing handrail

Abstract

A handrail (1) that can be attached to a guide element such as a moving walkway, escalator, etc. has a substantially constant cross section along its contour direction (C). The handrail (1) comprises a body (2) that can be placed on the guide element, and a cover layer (3) that is placed on the body (2). The cover layer (3) comprises a thermoplastic elastomer. Further, a method for manufacturing the handrail (1) is provided.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a handrail and a method for manufacturing the handrail. [Background technology]

[0002] Handrails are installed on escalators and moving walkways to provide assistance to passengers. Handrails for escalators and moving walkways are usually C-shaped handrails made of rubber or plastic. They must operate in accordance with regulations at the same speed as the escalator steps or moving walkway pallets, or at a maximum speed 2% faster, and the maximum clearance from the guide must be less than 8 mm. Considering millions of bending cycles regardless of ambient conditions, handrails must have good tensile behavior, high tear resistance, and high dimensional stability.

[0003] In recent years, demands on the technical performance and appearance of handrails have increased, while simultaneously increasing cost pressures have been countered by economizing on materials, complexity, component quality, and design. Urbanization trends mean that more people must be transported faster by escalators and moving walkways. System operating hours have increased dramatically, and many applications operate 24 / 7. Architects and operators are also setting ever-higher standards for escalator use and operation, and operating conditions are becoming more demanding than ever. For example, escalators are now installed behind large glass walls or outdoors without weather protection. Furthermore, environmental factors such as air pollution, high ambient temperatures, and extreme weather adversely affect handrail durability. At the same time, aesthetic requirements are also increasing.

[0004] Furthermore, handrail dimensions must remain within the required narrow tolerances even after several years of use. Traction must remain controllable in both wet and dry conditions, and environmental contamination must not adversely affect handrail performance. Handrail functionality must not be compromised by cracking or wear, and anti-aging agents must not contaminate the surface. Furthermore, high concentrations of nitrogen oxides in densely populated and heavily trafficked areas, high humidity, temperature fluctuations, tight bending radii to reduce installation costs, and high maintenance requirements further limit handrail performance, calling for improvements in handrail design, manufacturing, and materials.

[0005] Traditional rubber handrails have one or more inner layers of rubber and fiber or fabric, which provide lateral stiffness and dimensional stability. The top layer is often composed of an SBR polymer, for example. All layers are bonded together in a sandwich structure before being vulcanized in a press mold. Traditional plastic handrails, on the other hand, are usually made from plastic compounds.

[0006] Rubber handrails are durable and perform well over their lifetime, but in areas with higher temperatures and ozone concentrations, the anti-aging compounds can rise to the surface of the handrail and stain users' hands.

[0007] Plastic handrails provide a glossy surface but are not dynamically flexible, which presents drawbacks in dynamic behavior and for use on some types of escalators.

[0008] Rubber handrails are currently the most commonly installed. They are highly flexible in both positive and negative bending directions, and offer good dynamic behavior and good abrasion resistance. However, they have limitations in outdoor conditions such as high temperatures, direct sunlight, or high ozone pollution. Under such conditions, the protective components of rubber handrails can excessively stain the surface of the handrail, leading to negative customer feedback, especially in the summer. Reducing the amount of protective components or using other components in rubber handrails can significantly reduce the durability and service life of the rubber handrails.

[0009] Plastic handrails have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their glossy surface. However, increased bending stiffness affects the traction performance of plastic handrails on escalators equipped with small handrail traction wheels, especially when bending backward (negative bending). This is because stiffer handrails require more bending force, leading to loss of traction and increased energy consumption. Another drawback is the increased risk of damage to the rollers at the handrail head and return section of the escalator, because the handrail does not always follow the bending curve of the guide rollers (fewer contact points to support the same load result in increased contact pressure and a higher risk of damage).

[0010] None of the prior art handrails offer unlimited usability, including under stressful environmental conditions, while ensuring efficient operation. Known solutions have certain drawbacks. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0011] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a handrail for escalators and moving walkways that can withstand increased demands, has an improved appearance, and offers new possibilities for durable and efficient operation. A method for manufacturing such a handrail is also provided. [Means for solving the problem]

[0012] The present invention solves these objects by means of a handrail having the features of claim 1 and a method for manufacturing such a handrail having the features of claim 15. Preferred embodiments are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0013] One aspect of the present invention provides a handrail for a moving walkway, escalator, or the like, which is attachable or attachable to a guide element, and which has a substantially constant cross section along its contour. The handrail preferably comprises a body which is positionable or positionable on the guide element. The handrail preferably comprises a covering layer which is positioned on the body. The covering layer preferably comprises a thermoplastic elastomer.

[0014] In prior art rubber handrails, the connection between the handrail surface and the plastic layer lacks sufficient adhesive strength (adhesion or adhesion), making it impossible to apply a plastic layer as is. In other words, the adhesion between the plastic and the rubber is weak, and the necessary adhesive strength for the handrail is not achieved. For this reason, plastic handrails are now being used instead of plastic layers on rubber handrails. Typical plastic handrails do not require a body, since they derive their stability from the plastic material, which is much more stable than rubber. Providing a body here is unnecessary and does not bring any advantages. Rather, it entails cost disadvantages because it complicates processing and no obvious advantages are derived from such a combination.

[0015] Compared to conventional handrails, the handrail according to the present invention offers the advantageous dynamic behavior of a rubber handrail and the advantageous surface properties of a plastic handrail. This means that the handrail according to the present invention can be used on all escalators and moving walkways (including those with small bending radii), regardless of the surrounding climatic conditions. Preferably, the covering layer comprises a thermoplastic elastomer, which can be applied to the body more easily and at the same time has the same resistance to environmental factors as known plastic handrails.

[0016] The handrail has an essentially constant cross section and extends along the contour direction. This allows the handrail to move along the contour direction relative to a guide element to provide a secure grip for a person (user) standing on the moving walkway or escalator. During the handrail's movement, the handrail can be guided by a guide element (e.g., a rail). The guide element allows the handrail to bend in a positive (i.e., upward) and negative (i.e., downward) direction. For this purpose, the handrail can at least partially surround the guide element. Preferably, the handrail has a C-shape in a cross section transverse to the contour direction and partially surrounds the guide element. Thus, the handrail can be attached or attachable to the guide element. Thus, the handrail can have a C-shape in a cross section transverse to the contour direction. The cross section of the handrail along the contour direction can be approximately constant or uniform. This also includes deviations due to manufacturing tolerances of up to 15%. The cross section of the handrail can be divided into two curved end sections and a flat central section connecting the end sections. The end sections can be symmetrical with respect to an axis passing through the center of gravity of the cross section of the handrail. This makes the manufacture of the handrail particularly easy. The handrail can be designed as a continuous circumferential element without an end or beginning. Therefore, the handrail can be designed to be deflected and / or bent (positively and negatively) via multiple deflection rollers in addition to the guide elements. Making the handrail more flexible (i.e., reducing bending resistance) significantly reduces the energy required to drive the handrail. The covering layer can be at least partially disposed on the surface of the handrail. For example, the covering layer can be embedded in parts of the body and, together with the body, form, for example, a flat surface that the user can grip. In particular, it is advantageous for the covering layer to be attached to the body in the area where the body is bent or curved in cross section. This saves material on the one hand and gives the handrail a comfortable feel on the other hand. Additionally or alternatively, the covering layer can be provided as a partial protrusion on the body. For example, the covering layer may extend as an elongated plate-like element along a contour direction, which means that the surface of the covering layer that can be gripped by a user may have a roughened surface.This texture can take the form of, for example, a curve in cross section. As a result, the contact area between the user's hands and the handrail is reduced, which can improve the user's hygiene consciousness. Preferably, the covering layer is arranged on the handrail so as to cover the side of the handrail opposite the guide element. This ensures that the handrail is protected from environmental factors. In one embodiment, the top layer can be designed to form a surface with multiple curves that the user can grip. This means that the handrail can provide the user with a particularly secure grip.

[0017] The end regions of the handrail cross section can be, for example, 0.3 to 0.8 times thinner than the central region. This ratio has been found to advantageously reduce the bending force of the handrail while simultaneously ensuring sufficient lateral stability of the handrail. This reduces the drive energy of the handrail and ensures stable guidance of the handrail even in the event of sudden lateral forces. Furthermore, the handrail can be designed to be used with drive rollers and / or guide rollers with a diameter of less than 500 mm. A wrap angle of 100 to 270° is achievable. This reduces the force per unit area (i.e., tension) exerted on the handrail, thereby improving the durability of the handrail. Preferably, the drive rollers and / or guide rollers can have a diameter of less than 400 mm. The easily achievable high flexibility of the handrail according to the present invention allows for energy-efficient use even with these small diameters (i.e., the wrap angle can be achieved in this case). Therefore, the handrail can be advantageously used for escalators (e.g., traffic escalators) equipped with a drive unit at the head. At the head of the handrail, the wrap angle of the handrail around the drive roller is generally large.

[0018] The body of the handrail can comprise at least three different layers and can be designed to provide stability to the handrail along the contour and transversely to the contour. In particular, the body can have a sliding layer that can be in contact with the guide element. The sliding layer can minimize friction between the handrail and the guide element. The sliding layer can be made of, for example, Teflon® or other sliding materials. This further reduces the energy required to drive the handrail. Furthermore, the body can comprise a tension element (tension member), which can be a tension brake made of steel, polymer, or carbon fiber. Because the tension element can absorb tension, the maximum possible elongation of the handrail can be achieved depending on the tension element used. The tension element can reliably limit the elongation of the handrail along the contour over its service life. The tension element can be provided only in the central region of the handrail cross section. This means that the end sections can be easily lifted and the overall weight of the handrail can be kept low. The barrel may further include at least one inner layer (e.g., a primary layer comprising rubber, a thermoplastic elastomer, a textile, or a combination thereof). The barrel may further include a secondary layer (e.g., a covering comprising rubber and / or a thermoplastic elastomer). The secondary layer may, for example, cover the tension member, such that the tension member is inserted between the primary and secondary layers. The primary layer may be a separate layer from the barrel and only bonded to the barrel during manufacture. The layer may be an independent, particularly inherently stable, element (i.e., the layer is not a material that is specifically applied in some way). The same applies to the secondary layer. Therefore, damage by the tension member (e.g., to the sliding layer) may be avoided. This ensures sufficient stability of the barrel.

[0019] The extension brake (i.e. in particular the tension element) and the sliding layer can be integrated into one layer, which means that the design of the body is simpler and easier to manufacture. The integration of the extension brake and the sliding layer is particularly suitable for relatively short handrails, which have lower tensile forces than long handrails.

[0020] The body, preferably designed as a sandwich structure, allows for dynamic behavior of the handrail, as is typical for rubber handrails, for example. Preferably, a body can be used whose structure and manufacturing correspond to those for rubber handrails. This means that semi-finished products and increased complexity of the production process can be avoided. One particular difference from rubber handrails is that a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) can be used for the top layer. The coating layer can be applied to the body using standard manufacturing processes (e.g., compression molding, casting, dipping, spraying, painting, and / or extrusion). The coating layer can be applied to the upper layer of the body.

[0021] In another embodiment, the body can have at least one element protruding from the body, the element being arranged on the side of the body opposite the covering layer. The protruding element can be designed as an element tapering in the protruding direction (e.g., as a wedge). Furthermore, the protruding element can be designed to contact a guide element on which the handrail is guided, thereby improving the guidance of the handrail on the guide element.

[0022] The surface of the body may be composed of coated and / or treated fabrics such as cord or fiber (e.g., carbon, polyamide, polyester). Possible treatments include coatings such as resorcinol formaldehyde latex (RFL), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), rubber, isocyanates, adhesives, etc.

[0023] In the case of a transparent covering layer material, the body may have other functions. For example, the body may be equipped with a light source that emits a light signal depending on the operating state of the handrail (e.g., the speed or temperature of the handrail). The light signal can be seen through the transparent covering layer. A number of LEDs may be provided within the body, which indicate the temperature and / or speed of the handrail, for example, by their light color. Furthermore, the light source may also be used to control the flow of people. For example, light signals similar to traffic lights may be used when boarding an escalator or moving walkway, so that the handrail signals waiting pedestrians permission to board. The handrail's direction of movement may also be indicated by a pattern, such as an arrow. Furthermore, light signals may be used to indicate the distance people should keep on a moving walkway or escalator to comply with relevant distance regulations. For these functions, the handrail may have sensors that record corresponding information for transmission to users. Furthermore, the handrail may have a control unit designed to control the light source based on information obtained from the sensors. These may be temperature and / or motion sensors.

[0024] The thickness of the coating layer material may depend on the planned use of the handrail. The thickness of the material is preferably in the range of a few micrometers to 12 mm. In this regard, the handrail has been shown to have the desired properties in terms of resistance to environmental factors (e.g., ultraviolet exposure, ozone exposure, large temperature fluctuations, etc.) while also being sufficiently flexible to be used efficiently even with small drive roller radii. The ratio of the coating layer material thickness to the handrail bending radius is preferably in the range of 0.005 to 0.0125. This range has been found to provide an optimal ratio between the handrail's longitudinal and lateral stiffness and flexibility. This means that the handrail can be safely guided over the drive and guide rollers while minimizing the energy required to drive the handrail. In this case, the bending radius is the radius of an imaginary circle around which the handrail can be wrapped at a wrap angle of 100° to 270° without damage (i.e., without plastic deformation) and without shortening the handrail's service life. This is particularly important when using handrails on compact moving walkways and escalators, where very small guide and drive rollers are often used. The covering layer provides safe and comfortable support for users when using the escalator or moving walkway. The ratio between the material thickness of the covering layer and the bending radius of the handrail is preferably in the range of 0.005 to 0.0075. In this regard, particularly efficient operation can be achieved by using handrails with a C-shaped cross section, because the handrail shape increases stability and the thinner covering layer ensures efficient operation.

[0025] Thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) are special plastics that behave similarly to conventional elastomers at room temperature, but can undergo plastic deformation when heat is applied, thus exhibiting thermoplastic behavior. Other elastomers, for example, contain spatially networked molecules chemically crosslinked into extensive networks. Such crosslinks in elastomers cannot be dissolved without decomposing the material. In contrast, thermoplastic elastomers can be materials in which elastic polymer chains are incorporated into the thermoplastic material. This allows them to be processed through a purely physical process involving a combination of high shear force, heating, and subsequent cooling. While chemical crosslinking, which involves time-consuming and temperature-sensitive vulcanization, is not required like other elastomers, thermoplastic elastomers can exhibit elastomeric properties due to their special molecular structure. Therefore, the bending resistance of coating layers can be reduced. Thermoplastic elastomers have physical crosslinks (secondary valence forces or crystallites) in some regions, which dissolve when heated without polymer degradation. Therefore, thermoplastic elastomers are much easier to process than other elastomers. This means that the covering layer can be easily recycled after the handrail has been used, improving the overall life cycle rating of the handrail.

[0026] The handrails described above can be used, for example, on moving walkways or escalators, where the handrail surface is continuously cleaned. This can be achieved by a durable coating layer. This means that the long service life of the handrails according to the invention can be maintained even if the handrails are continuously cleaned. Particularly in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic, the handrail surface can be treated with a continuous UV light source to reduce viral and bacterial contamination. Such cleaning devices can be used in the return section of the escalator.

[0027] The present invention thus provides a handrail that is highly resistant to environmental factors while allowing for efficient operation of the escalator or moving walkway on which it is installed. This property can be achieved by using a body in combination with a covering layer that includes a thermoplastic elastomer. The effectiveness of this combination is surprising, since the covering layer made of a thermoplastic elastomer is inherently highly stable and therefore does not actually require stabilization (e.g., by a body). A body is usually only necessary for a soft or rubber-like covering layer to provide the necessary stability for the handrail.

[0028] Preferably, the thermoplastic elastomer comprises polyurethane.

[0029] Polyurethanes can have different properties depending on the choice of polyisocyanate and polyol. Polyurethanes can be used in an unfoamed state to increase the resistance of the coating layer. The density of polyurethanes ranges from 1000 to 1250 kg / m 3 In this way, the necessary stability of the top layer can be achieved. Furthermore, polyurethanes can have good adhesive properties with the body, which makes them advantageous when applied to the body. Polyurethanes also have good resistance to solvents, chemicals, and weathering.

[0030] In one embodiment of the present invention, a polyurethane coating layer is provided having a material thickness of 1.5 to 3.5 mm in at least the central region. The coating layer may have a Shore hardness of 75 to 85 ShA. The Shore hardness may be measured according to ISO 48-4:2018. In this case, the lateral rigidity of the handrail may be increased by 20% or more compared to a rubber handrail. In particular, the coating layer may have the same material thickness in the end sections as in the central region. This increases the rigidity of the end sections and prevents the handrail from slipping off the guide element during operation. Furthermore, because the handrail is made of polyurethane and is highly flexible, the longitudinal rigidity may be reduced by 40% or more compared to an equivalent resin handrail. This reduces losses when operating the handrail and enables more efficient operation.

[0031] Preferably, the body has a primary layer facing the covering layer and a tension element extending in the contour direction of the handrail.

[0032] The primary layer may be the upper layer of the body. The primary layer may be directly connected to the covering layer. Thus, the primary layer may be designed to form a connection between the covering layer and the body. The primary layer may be made of a woven fabric. In this case, the primary layer may contribute to the stability of the entire body. Preferably, the primary layer comprises TPE and / or rubber (e.g., a rubber composite). In this case, the primary layer has a strength of 5 N / mm 2 Furthermore, readily available standard semi-finished products (such as those used in the manufacture of rubber handrails) can be used to manufacture the body, which means that the efficiency and effectiveness of handrail production can be maintained at a high level.

[0033] In addition to or as an alternative to treating the primary layer with the above-mentioned substances, the primary layer can be roughened on its upper surface facing the cover layer. The texture can be created with a defined roughness. For example, the texture can include indentations and / or holes. This can have a further positive effect on the adhesion between the body and the cover layer.

[0034] Furthermore, the primary layer can be a rubberized fabric. This rubberized fabric can be vulcanized to enhance the internal stability of the primary layer. Furthermore, the rubberized fabric can have an adhesion promoter (e.g., one or a combination of the above-mentioned finishes) to ensure reliable adhesion of the covering layer to the body. The rubberized fabric can also be swollen with other materials. For this purpose, the rubberized fabric can include or be swollen with a swellable material, thereby providing a reliable connection between the body and the top layer. The selection of substances (especially solvents) used to swell the rubberized top layer can be optimized using the Hansen solubility parameter system. Hansen solubility parameters are three-dimensional solubility parameters. They include a dispersion component (δD) resulting from London interactions, a component from dipole-dipole interactions (δP), and a component from hydrogen bonds (δH). Preferably, a material is used whose parameters δD, δP, and δH are within ±4 of the solubility parameters of the materials of the covering layer (e.g., when the covering layer comprises polyurethane) and the body (i.e., the top layer of the body facing the covering layer). This means that a wide range of swellable materials is available to ensure a secure hold between the top layer and the body. More preferably, the solubility parameters of the material to be used are between the two solubility parameters. In this regard, it has been found that a particularly good grip between the body and the top layer is achieved even when the handrail is guided around rollers with a small radius. Furthermore, it is preferred that the solubility parameters of the material to be used are such that the average values ​​of the material of the body (e.g., the top layer of the body) and the material of the covering layer are within ±50% of the difference between the solubility parameters of these two materials. In this case, a particularly good grip between the body and the covering layer can be achieved when the covering layer comprises polyurethane.

[0035] For reinforcement, the primary layer may have transverse reinforcements that provide reinforcement perpendicular to the contour of the handrail. These transverse reinforcements may include fibers, cords, and / or fabrics. This ensures reliable guidance of the handrail on the guide element.

[0036] Preferably, the primary layer is made of an elastomer and the tension elements are embedded in the primary layer.

[0037] Thus, the primary layer can be formed as an elastomer insert that completely surrounds the tension element. The advantage of this is that the processing of the semi-finished product is simplified. The tension element is also shielded or protected from the primary layer, preventing damage to other elements of the handrail. For example, contact between the tension element and the sliding layer can be effectively prevented without the need for an additional layer to protect the sliding layer.

[0038] Preferably, the primary layer has fibre reinforcement transverse to the profile of the handrail, the fibre reinforcement preferably comprising glass, carbon, polyamide and / or polyester.

[0039] As mentioned above, this improves the lateral stability of the primary layer, and thus the entire handrail, making it possible to reliably guide the handrail on the guide elements. Preferably, the primary layer has the fiber reinforcement only in the end regions. This makes it possible to strengthen the end regions in particular, increasing the handrail's resistance to lateral loads and preventing it from being accidentally pulled out. As a result, the handrail can be more reliably guided on the guide elements, guide rollers, and drive rollers.

[0040] Preferably, the primary layer has a number of holes at least on the side facing the cover layer.

[0041] The holes can be indentations on the side of the primary layer facing the covering layer, which improves the mechanical adhesion between the body and the covering layer. Furthermore, the holes can be through-holes that penetrate the primary layer, which makes it easier to create the holes and improves the efficiency of the manufacturing process of the handrail. Furthermore, the advantages already mentioned above can be achieved by the holes (texture of the primary layer).

[0042] Preferably, the primary layer is made of a rubberized fabric, in particular a vulcanized fabric, and preferably comprises chloroprene rubber, natural rubber, styrene-butadiene rubber or styrenebutadiene rubber, and / or polybutadiene rubber.

[0043] Vulcanization can form a stable bond with sufficient stability. Furthermore, the entire body can be vulcanized in addition to the primary layer. This means that the individual components of the body can be easily bonded to each other. Treating the primary layer with CR (chloroprene rubber), NR (natural rubber), SBR (styrene butadiene rubber), and / or BR (polybutadiene rubber) provides good adhesion between the body and the covering layer, especially when the covering layer contains polyurethane. Furthermore, such a body or primary layer can be manufactured or processed on existing machine tools without structural adjustments. This means that manufacturing handrails is very simple and cost-effective.

[0044] Preferably, the primary layer has a surface texture (in particular contour and / or transversely to contour) on the side facing the cover layer.

[0045] The surface texture can be a roughened texture of the surface of the primary layer facing the cover layer. For example, the surface can have indentations, raised areas, or a combination of the two. The indentations are one example of a surface texture of the primary layer. The indentations can take the form of elongated indentations (e.g., one or more grooves). The raised areas can be in the form of protrusions of material protruding from the primary layer. The primary layer can have elongated indentations and / or raised areas transverse to the contour of the handrail to ensure adhesion of the cover layer to the body when a force is applied along the contour. Additionally or alternatively, the primary layer can have indentations in the contour to ensure adhesion of the cover layer to the body when a force is applied transverse to the contour. Preferably, the indentations are inclined at an angle greater than 0° and less than 90° relative to the contour. In this case, adhesion of the top layer to the body can be ensured when forces are applied transverse to and along the contour. The indentations also preferably have an angle of between 30° and 60° relative to the contour direction. In this connection, it has been found that optimal adhesion of the covering layer to the body is achieved even if the handrail is deflected (for example by a drive roller) with a radius of less than 400 mm.

[0046] Preferably, the primary layer has an insert on the side facing the cover layer that has an adhesion promoter, especially a polyurethane-friendly finish.

[0047] Adhesion promoters are substances that form an intimate physical or chemical bond at the interface between immiscible materials. This means that the cover layer can be effectively attached to the barrel even if the cover layer and barrel are made of different materials. In particular, the primary layer may comprise resorcinol formaldehyde latex (RFL), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), rubber, isocyanate, and / or adhesive. Preferably, the primary layer provides a 5 N / mm bond between the cover layer and barrel. 2The handrail has a finish that provides an adhesive strength (also known as peel strength or cohesion) of at least 5 N / mm between the top layer and the body. This ensures that the top layer and the body are reliably bonded throughout the service life of the handrail. In particular, the body may be treated with resorcinol formaldehyde latex (RFL), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), rubber and / or isocyanates, or adhesives. In this case, a polyurethane coating layer may be advantageously attached to the body. If any one of the above coatings is used, a coating strength of at least 5 N / mm between the coating layer and the body is required. 2 Adhesion strengths of 0.1 mm can be achieved. This ensures a secure grip between the body and the covering layer, even for handrails exposed to high levels of environmental stress. Furthermore, a chemically reactive "hot melt film" can be used to create adhesion between the body and the covering layer. The film can be applied to the side of the body facing the covering layer and vulcanized together with the body and the covering layer. This film has the advantage of being solvent-free and of low material cost. It is also fast and simple to process. This means that different materials can be easily joined.

[0048] Preferably, the handrail has a sliding layer arranged on the body so as to be in contact with the guide element.

[0049] In other words, the sliding layer can be provided on the handrail so that it faces the surroundings (i.e., is not covered by other layers), and thus can be placed on the guide element. The sliding layer is preferably provided on the body. This simplifies the work process, since it is only necessary to attach the covering layer to the completed body. As mentioned above, the sliding layer can reduce friction between the handrail and the guide element, thereby enabling efficient operation of the handrail. The sliding layer can be placed on the handrail so that the tension element is located between the sliding layer and the covering layer.

[0050] Preferably, the body includes a secondary layer, and the tension element is interposed between the primary layer and the secondary layer.

[0051] The secondary layer can be designed in the same way as the primary layer. This provides a symmetrical bending load distribution to the handrail, extending the overall service life of the handrail. Nevertheless, the secondary layer can be a separate layer separated from the primary layer, for example, by another layer (e.g., a tension element). The secondary layer can also protect the sliding layer from direct contact with the tension element. This ensures the durability of the sliding layer.

[0052] Preferably, the primary layer and / or said secondary layer comprises a woven or belt structure.

[0053] This can increase the strength of the primary layer and / or the secondary layer. In particular, the tensile strength of the entire handrail can be increased. Nevertheless, the fabric or belt structure can provide sufficient elasticity so that the handrail can adapt to the guide elements and / or the guide or drive rollers with little energy consumption during operation.

[0054] Preferably, the tension elements comprise steel, aramid, glass fibre and / or carbon fibre.

[0055] Therefore, it is possible to provide handrails with high tensile strength, which allows even very long handrails to be used. Aramid, glass fiber, and / or carbon fiber have the additional advantage of being relatively light, which improves the overall efficiency of handrail operation. Furthermore, these materials can be easily processed into the body, which can simplify the manufacture of the handrail.

[0056] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for manufacturing a handrail (in particular a handrail as claimed in any one of the preceding claims), the method comprising the steps of: providing a body; and applying a coating layer to the body by compression moulding, casting, dipping, painting and / or extrusion, wherein the coating layer comprises a thermoplastic elastomer.

[0057] This means that an existing body can be used to manufacture the handrail. In other words, the body can be manufactured separately. The body can be provided, for example, by unwinding it from a supply roll. This makes it easy to store the body. The body can be supplied in a fully vulcanized state. It can then be fed into an infeed device. The infeed device pre-tensions the body. This prevents sagging of the body, which would make it impossible to apply the coating layer accurately (i.e., undesirable variations in the material thickness of the coating layer can be prevented). The body can then be fed into a preheater. The body can be preheated to prevent the extruded material from cooling too quickly during subsequent extrusion. This means that the material bond between the coating layer and the body will not have the required adhesive strength. This process ensures a tension of at least 5 N / mm between the coating layer and the body. 2 can be achieved (see also the comments above in this regard). The body can then be fed into an extruder, which can be equipped with a cross-extrusion head to create the coating layer over the entire cross section of the body. Furthermore, the extruder can be calibrated so that the feed rate of the thermoplastic elastomer into the extruder can be set as a function of the feed rate of the body before actually extruding the coating layer, in order to achieve the desired material thickness of the coating layer. Once the top coating layer has been applied to the body, the handrail thus formed is fed into a cooling bath. The handrail can then be treated in a bead remover to make the surface of the coating layer smooth and clean. This is followed by a film application step and / or a label application step before the handrail is wound onto a drum winder.

[0058] All features and advantages of the above apparatus equally apply to the above method and vice versa. Each feature may be combined with other features to integrate multiple advantages associated with those features. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0059] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic perspective view of a handrail according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view of a handrail according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view of a handrail according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view of a handrail according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view of a handrail according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view of a handrail according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view of a handrail according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a handrail according to one embodiment of the present invention, taken across the contour direction. [Figure 9] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a handrail according to one embodiment of the present invention, taken across the contour direction. [Figure 10] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a handrail according to one embodiment of the present invention, taken across the contour direction. [Figure 11] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a handrail according to one embodiment of the present invention, taken across the contour direction. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0060] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of a handrail 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention, in which one layer of the handrail has been cut away for ease of illustration.

[0061] The handrail 1 comprises a carcass 2 and a covering layer 3 attached thereto. The carcass 2 comprises a tension element 6 for absorbing tension forces, a primary layer 4, and a sliding layer 9. The handrail 1 extends in a contour direction C. The cross section of the handrail 1 transverse to the contour direction C is approximately constant, allowing the handrail 1 to move (i.e., guide and drive) in the contour direction C. In this embodiment, the tension element 6 (also known as a tension member) is made of steel. However, it can also be made of aramid, glass fiber, or carbon to reduce the weight of the handrail 1. The tension element 6 provides structural stability to the handrail on the one hand, and on the other hand, functions to absorb and transmit tension forces acting on the handrail. The sliding layer 9 is designed to come into contact with a guide element (not shown). The guide element may be a guide rail, guide roller, and / or drive roller of an escalator or moving walkway on which the handrail 1 is installed. The primary layer 4 is designed to cover the traction element 6 and, in particular, to provide a constant volume for the carcass. This means that by changing the volume (i.e., dimensions) of the primary layer 4, the handrail 1 can be adapted to the required dimensions. In contrast, changing the volume of the covering layer 3 is only possible within narrow limits. If the thickness of the covering layer 3 is too thick, the entire handrail 1 will be too stiff. This will increase the energy required to actuate the handrail 1. This will also result in varying bending resistance in the positive and negative bending directions of the handrail perpendicular to the contour direction C, which will cause inconvenience during operation of the handrail 1. The covering layer 3 comprises a thermoplastic elastomer, which makes the entire handrail highly resistant to environmental factors. Furthermore, in the contour (i.e., cross-section) of the handrail 1 transverse to the contour direction C, the handrail 1 has a flat central region 12 and two curved end regions 13. Therefore, the cross-section of the handrail 1 is C-shaped. The end regions 13 are symmetrical with respect to an axis passing through the center of gravity of the contour of the handrail 1. For clarity, the end regions 13 and the central region 12 are not labeled in the following diagrams.

[0062] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of a handrail 1 according to another embodiment of the present invention. The handrail 1 shown in FIG. 2 differs from the handrail 1 shown in FIG. 1 in that the primary layer 4 has a surface texture 8. The surface texture 8 can improve the connection between the cover layer 3 and the body 2. As a result, the handrail 1 as a whole can have a long service life. In this embodiment, the surface structure includes eight elongated depressions extending in the contour direction and transverse to the contour direction C. Some of the depressions are straight and some are curved. This can further increase the adhesion between the cover layer 3 and the body 2. In this way, in this embodiment, the adhesion between the cover layer 3 and the body 2 is increased by mechanical means.

[0063] Figure 3 is a schematic perspective view of a handrail 1 according to another embodiment of the present invention. The handrail 1 shown in Figure 3 differs from the handrail 1 shown in Figures 1 and 2 in that the primary layer has a finish 10 which enhances the adhesion between the covering layer 3 and the body 2. This is at least 5 N / mm 2 This is achieved by chemical bonding by applying at least one substance to the primary layer that interacts with the thermoplastic elastomer of the covering layer 3 so that the adhesive strength of the primary layer 4 is achieved. In this embodiment, the primary layer 4 has resorcinol formaldehyde latex (RFL) at least on the side facing the covering layer 3. In yet another embodiment, the primary layer 4 includes polyvinyl chloride (PVC), thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), rubber, and / or isocyanate or adhesive. In this manner, in this embodiment, the adhesive strength between the covering layer 3 and the body 2 is increased by chemical means. In particular, a combination with the above-mentioned mechanical means is advantageous for further increasing the adhesive strength.

[0064] Figure 4 is a schematic perspective view of a handrail 1 according to another embodiment of the present invention. The handrail 1 shown in Figure 4 differs from the previous embodiment in that the primary layer has holes 7 to increase the adhesion between the body 2 and the cover layer 3. The holes 7 represent another example of using mechanical means to increase the adhesion between the cover layer 3 and the body 2.

[0065] FIG. 5 is a schematic perspective view of a handrail 1 according to another embodiment of the present invention. The handrail 1 shown in FIG. 5 differs from the previous embodiment in that the tension elements 6 are embedded in the primary layer 4. The primary layer contains an elastomer. Preferably, the primary layer is made entirely of elastomer. Thus, the primary layer 4 has a high adhesion to the cover layer 3 and can be advantageously manufactured together with the tension elements 6. In another embodiment, the primary layer 4 has transverse reinforcements with fibers, cords, and / or fabrics. This increases the strength of the handrail 1, especially with respect to forces acting transverse to the profile direction C.

[0066] Figure 6 is a schematic perspective view of a handrail 1 according to another embodiment of the invention. The handrail 1 shown in Figure 6 differs from the previous embodiment in that the primary layer 4 has fiber reinforcement 11 transverse to the profile direction C. As in the previous embodiment, this increases the resistance of the handrail 1 to deformation. The handrail can therefore be guided particularly reliably on the guide element. In this embodiment, the fiber reinforcement 11 of the primary layer 4 comprises glass fibers. In another embodiment not shown, the fiber reinforcement 11 comprises carbon fibers, polyamide fibers, and / or polyester fibers.

[0067] 7 is a schematic perspective view of a handrail 1 according to another embodiment of the present invention. The handrail 1 shown in FIG. 7 differs from the previous embodiment in that a secondary layer 5 is provided within the body 2. The secondary layer is provided such that the tension elements 6 are inserted between the primary layers 4. In this way, the body 2 of this embodiment is formed from the primary layer 4, the secondary layer 5, the tension elements 6, and the sliding layer 9.

[0068] The secondary layer 5 may be designed in the same manner as the primary layer 2. In particular, the secondary layer 5 may have other features of the primary layer 4 of the embodiment shown in Figures 2-4. Thus, the secondary layer 5 may have the finish 10, fiber reinforcement 11, and / or surface texture 8 described above.

[0069] Figure 8 is a schematic cross-section across the contour direction C of a handrail 1 according to one embodiment of the invention. The handrail 1 essentially corresponds to the handrail 1 shown in Figure 1. Figure 8 shows the body 2 only diagrammatically and in simplified form. Figure 8 also shows the central region 12 and two adjacent end regions 13. In this embodiment, the covering layer 3 completely covers the body 2 on one side thereof.

[0070] FIG. 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a handrail 1 according to another embodiment of the present invention, taken across the contour direction C. The handrail 1 shown in FIG. 9 essentially corresponds to the handrail 1 shown in FIG. 8, except that the handrail 1 of this embodiment has wedges 14 protruding from the body 2 toward the guide element. This allows the wedges 14 to engage with the guide element, improving the guidance of the handrail 1 by the guide element. Furthermore, this can reduce the lateral load on the end section 13 of the handrail 1, and reduce unevenness of the end section 13. The wedges 14 can be made of the same material as the body 2.

[0071] Fig. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a handrail 1 according to another embodiment of the present invention, taken across the contour direction C. The handrail 1 shown in Fig. 10 essentially corresponds to the handrail 1 shown in Fig. 8, except that the handrail 1 of this embodiment has a covering layer 3 with multiple curved portions on the body 2. In this embodiment, the handrail 1 also has a constant cross section along the contour direction C. Therefore, the curved portions extend in strips along the contour direction. This allows the surface of the covering layer 3 that the user grips to have a roughened surface.

[0072] FIG. 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a handrail 1 according to another embodiment of the present invention, taken along the contour direction C. The handrail 1 shown in FIG. 11 essentially corresponds to the handrail 1 shown in FIG. 8, except that the handrail 1 of this embodiment has a covering layer 3 that is only provided in certain places on the body 2 in a cross section taken along the contour direction C. The covering layer 3 is provided at two points in the central region 12 as protrusions or curved portions on the body 2. The covering layer 3 is also present at four other points on the body (particularly in the end regions 13) so that the covering layer 3 forms a flush or flat surface with the body 2 and can be grasped by a user. In this embodiment, more than half of the surface of the body 2 exposed to the environment is covered by the covering layer 3. This allows the handrail 1 to achieve a high level of resistance to environmental factors while saving material for the covering layer 3.

[0073] Furthermore, individual embodiments can be combined with one another to form further embodiments. [Explanation of symbols]

[0074] 1. Handrail 2. Torso 3 Covering layer 4 Primary layer 5 Secondary layer 6 Tension Elements 7 holes 8 Surface texture 9 Sliding layer 10 Finished surface 11 Fiber reinforcement materials 12 Central area 13 End area 14 Wedge C Contour direction

Claims

1. A handrail (1) that can be mounted on a guide element of a moving walkway or escalator, said handrail (1) having a substantially constant cross section along its contour direction (C), said handrail (1) comprising: a body (2) that can be placed on the guide element, and a covering layer (3) disposed on the body (2), the covering layer (3) including a thermoplastic elastomer; The body (2) comprises a primary layer (4) facing the covering layer (3) and a tension element (6) extending in the contour direction (C) of the handrail (1), said primary layer (4) being formed from a rubberized fabric; the primary layer (4) comprises chloroprene rubber, natural rubber, styrene butadiene rubber, and / or polybutadiene rubber; The handrail (1), wherein the body (2) includes a secondary layer (5) such that the tension element (6) is inserted between the primary layer (4) and the secondary layer (5).

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

3. The handrail (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the body (2) comprises at least three different layers and is designed to provide the handrail (1) with stability along the contour direction (C) and stability laterally relative to the contour direction (C).

4. 2. The handrail (1) according to claim 1, wherein the primary layer (4) has fiber reinforcements (11) transverse to the profile direction (C) of the handrail (1).

5. 2. Handrail (1) according to claim 1, wherein the primary layer (4) has a number of holes (7) at least on the side facing the covering layer (3).

6. 2. The handrail (1) according to claim 1, wherein the primary layer (4) has a surface texture (8) on the side facing the covering layer (3), indentations in the contour direction (C) and / or indentations transverse to the contour direction (C).

7. 2. The handrail (1) according to claim 1, wherein the primary layer (4) has, on the side facing the covering layer (3), an adhesion promoter, an insert with a polyurethane-friendly finish.

8. 2. The handrail (1) according to claim 1, wherein the handrail (1) comprises a sliding layer (9) arranged on the body (2) so as to be able to come into contact with the guide element.

9. The handrail (1) according to claim 1, wherein the primary layer (4) and / or the secondary layer (5) comprises a woven or tape structure.

10. 2. The handrail (1) according to claim 1, wherein the tension element (6) comprises steel, aramid, glass fibre and / or carbon fibre.

11. A method for manufacturing a handrail (1) according to claim 1, comprising the following steps: - providing a body part (2), - applying a coating layer (3) to said body (2) by compression molding, casting, dipping, painting and / or extrusion, wherein said coating layer (3) comprises a thermoplastic elastomer; The method comprising:

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