Asymmetrical Elevator Brake Segments with Dual Coil Activation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing elevator systems with multiple segment brake assemblies are costly due to the need for multiple brake coils to provide flexibility in braking timing, increasing the overall cost of the system.
Innovation Solution
An asymmetrical brake assembly with at least three brake segments, each with a brake applying portion, is designed with a brake activating device that includes a first and second coil to independently control the activation of the segments, allowing for flexible timing and torque application, reducing the need for multiple coils.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple brake coils are used to provide flexibility in braking timing for multiple segment brake assemblies, then braking flexibility and control are improved, but system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple brake segments are combined into a single integrated assembly that can be controlled by a reduced number of coils. The brake segments are positioned adjacent to one another and circumferentially disposed around a plate, allowing them to be actuated by shared coil structures, thereby reducing the total number of coils required while maintaining independent control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The brake segments are designed to perform multiple functions within a single assembly structure. Each brake segment can be independently actuated to provide different braking scenarios (normal operation, emergency stopping, controlled descent), allowing a single multi-segment assembly to replace what would traditionally require multiple separate brake systems with individual coils for each.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple brake coils are installed to enable independent timing of brake segments, then control precision is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The brake assembly is segmented into multiple independent brake segments that can be manufactured separately and then assembled together. This segmentation allows each segment to be optimized for its specific function while using a standardized interface, reducing overall manufacturing complexity and cost compared to creating entirely separate brake systems.
Solution Approach 2:
Different brake segments can have different local properties optimized for their specific functions. For example, segments designed for normal operation may have different friction characteristics or actuation forces compared to emergency brake segments, allowing each segment to be precisely tailored to its required performance while sharing common structural elements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If brake segments are configured to provide flexible timing activation, then operational versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The brake segments are arranged in an asymmetrical configuration around the plate, with each segment positioned to optimize its actuation characteristics. This asymmetrical arrangement allows different segments to be activated at different times and with different forces, providing timing flexibility while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure that avoids the complexity of symmetrical multi-coil arrangements.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enhances braking performance and flexibility while reducing costs by allowing for selective and sequential activation of brake segments, improving the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of the elevator system.
Implementation Method 1
a brake activating device including a first coil configured to activate one of the at least three brake segments and a second coil configured to activate the remaining of the at least three brake segments
Data Source
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AI summary
An elevator brake assembly (30) including an asymmetrical brake (32) comprising at least three brake segments (34,36,38), a brake activating device (40) operably coupled to the asymmetrical brake (32), the brake activating device (40) comprising a first activation element (44) and a second activation element (46), wherein the first activation element (44) is configured to activate one of the at least three brake segments (34,36,38), and the second activation element (46) is configured to activate the remaining of the at least three brake segments (34,36,38).