Dynamic Elevator Leveling Control Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hydraulic elevator systems face inefficiencies due to fixed static slowdown distances, which are influenced by varying elevator loads and hydraulic oil temperatures, leading to suboptimal leveling times, increased wear, and energy consumption.
Innovation Solution
A dynamic leveling control module attached to the elevator, coupled with a fixed belt and position encoder, calculates a new dynamic slowdown distance for each stop based on real-time elevator load and oil temperature, communicating this to the elevator controller to optimize deceleration and leveling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a static slowdown distance is used for elevator leveling, then the elevator can achieve a level stop with the landing, but the leveling time increases and energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transitioning from a static slowdown distance to a dynamic slowdown distance that varies based on real-time operating conditions. The system calculates the dynamic slowdown distance using the formula: dynamic slowdown distance = function(elevator load, hydraulic oil temperature, service velocity). This allows the slowdown distance to adapt dynamically to changing conditions, optimizing both leveling accuracy and leveling time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the slowdown distance parameter based on changes in elevator load and hydraulic oil temperature. The system continuously monitors these parameters and adjusts the slowdown distance accordingly, ensuring optimal leveling performance across different operating conditions without requiring a fixed conservative distance.
2Reliability
If a static slowdown distance is used for elevator leveling, then the elevator can achieve a level stop with the landing, but energy consumption and wear on hydraulic components increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the slowdown distance based on actual operating conditions rather than using a fixed conservative value. This reduces unnecessary energy consumption by minimizing the slowdown distance when conditions permit, while still achieving accurate leveling. The dynamic calculation optimizes energy efficiency by avoiding excessive slowdown distances that would increase pump work and component wear.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the slowdown distance parameter in response to changes in load and temperature parameters. By adjusting this parameter dynamically, the system reduces energy consumption associated with hydraulic pump operation and component wear, while maintaining reliable leveling accuracy across different operating conditions.
3Reliability
If a static slowdown distance is used for elevator leveling, then the elevator can achieve a level stop with the landing, but the elevator travel time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adjustment of the slowdown distance to optimize elevator travel time. By calculating the appropriate slowdown distance based on current load and temperature conditions, the system minimizes the time spent decelerating and leveling, thereby improving overall elevator productivity and reducing wait times between floors.
4Productivity
If the static slowdown distance is too small for a particular combination of load and hydraulic oil temperature, then the elevator travel time decreases, but leveling may not be completed by the time the elevator doors open
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by continuously monitoring elevator load and hydraulic oil temperature, then using this information to calculate and adjust the dynamic slowdown distance. This closed-loop approach ensures that the slowdown distance is always appropriate for current conditions, guaranteeing leveling completion while minimizing travel time. The system feedback mechanism prevents both insufficient and excessive slowdown distances.
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 reduces slowdown time, minimizes energy consumption, enhances leveling accuracy and passenger safety, and reduces travel times, improving the overall performance and efficiency of hydraulic elevator systems.
Implementation Method 1
A position encoder on the dynamic leveling control module outputs a position signal in response to motion relative to the fixed belt
Implementation Method 2
The position and speed of a hydraulic elevator may be managed by an elevator control system that regulates the flow of hydraulic fluid through an integral valve in fluid communication with a movable plunger mechanically coupled to the elevator
Implementation Method 3
The viscosity of hydraulic oil changes with temperature. As hydraulic oil flows through pumps, valves, and other parts of the elevator's hydraulic system, energy transfers into the oil, increasing the oil's temperature and decreasing its viscosity
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for controlling a position of an elevator in a hoistway includes a fixed belt and a dynamic leveling control module adapted for attachment to the elevator and coupled to the fixed belt. The control module includes a position encoder coupled to the fixed belt, a processor electrically connected to the position encoder, and a communications interface electrically connected to the processor and adapted for communication with an elevator controller for the elevator. The control module determines a velocity, a position, and an acceleration of the elevator in response to a count signal output from the position encoder, and calculates a dynamic slowdown distance relative to an elevator landing for each elevator stop. The control module communicates the dynamic slowdown distance to the elevator controller to initiate slowdown of the elevator. The control module determines a new value of said dynamic slowdown distance for each elevator stop.