Escalator Comb Plate Switch Testing Unit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for testing comb plate safety switches in escalators and moving walks are unsafe, unreliable, and difficult to standardize, as they involve manual force application without precise measurement, risking accidents and incorrect adjustments.
Innovation Solution
A testing unit with attachment means for fixing to the comb plate switch, allowing for the application of a predefined testing force using tools like screwdrivers or torque wrenches, providing a mechanical advantage to ensure secure and precise activation of the safety switch.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a tool like screwdriver or lever is used to manually exert force on the comb plate safety switch, then the testing operation can be performed, but the tool may slip off causing accidents or injury, and the force applied cannot be measured precisely
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a specialized testing tool as an intermediary device between the operator and the comb plate safety switch. This testing tool features a forked end that engages with the safety switch mechanism, providing a secure connection that prevents slippage. The tool transmits force through this engaged connection rather than direct manual manipulation, eliminating the safety hazard of tool slippage while maintaining ease of operation.
2Productivity
If manual force is applied to activate the safety switch, then the testing can be performed, but the force cannot be measured and remains empirical, leading to potential incorrect adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the empirical mechanical force application with a standardized testing tool that incorporates measurement capabilities. The testing tool includes a scale or measurement mechanism that quantifies the force being applied to activate the safety switch. This substitution transforms the testing process from an empirical, unmeasured operation to a precise, measurable process, ensuring that the correct activation force is consistently applied.
3Ease of manufacture
If the spring plate is adjusted by applying force manually, then the adjustment can be made, but the spring plate position or functioning may be falsified
Solution Approach 1:
The specialized testing tool serves as an intermediary device that ensures precise and accurate adjustment of the spring plate position. The tool's design includes features that engage with specific components of the safety switch mechanism, allowing for controlled and measurable adjustment forces to be applied. This intermediary mechanism prevents over-adjustment or misadjustment that could falsify the spring plate position, while maintaining ease of adjustment through the tool's ergonomic design.
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
The solution enables standardized, safe, and reliable testing of comb plate safety switches, ensuring correct functioning and reducing the risk of accidents by applying a controlled force, facilitating both monthly and annual audits with enhanced precision.
Implementation Method 1
The testing unit provides for a kind of gear ratio from leverage forces, especially exerted by a person, to predefinable testing forces exerted on the switch
Implementation Method 2
The testing unit is configured to exert a predefined testing force between a plate and a washer resp. between the plate and a screw of the switch, especially by providing for a tensile force between these components
Data Source
Figure 1A~1D
Figure 2~3C
Figure 4A~4F
AI summary
The present invention refers to a testing unit for testing at least one comb plate switch of an escalator or moving walk, wherein the testing unit exhibits at least one attachment means configured for fixing the testing unit at the at least one comb plate switch. Furthermore, the present invention refers to a method and use in context with such testing units.