Self-Energizing Elevator Brake Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing elevator braking systems lack a reliable and economically efficient mechanism for safely braking and resetting the elevator cage, particularly in cases of drive or support failure, often requiring complex and costly mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A self-energizing elevator braking device with a brake element having a curved shape, actuated by a force store and an electromagnet, which automatically engages and resets by relative movement with the brake surface, allowing for simple and economic integration with existing brake housings and guide rails.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional braking device is used, then the elevator cage can be braked, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The brake element is designed to be self-energizing through its curved shape that converts the relative movement between the brake element and brake surface into automatic engagement force. The relative movement itself generates the braking action without requiring external actuation, making the system self-serving and eliminating complex control mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical actuation systems with a purely geometric solution. The curved shape of the brake element (eccentric or amplifying curve) substitutes for motors, solenoids, or complex linkages, using the relative movement between components to automatically generate the necessary braking force through geometric conversion
2Force
If a self-energizing brake element with curved shape is used, then the braking force increases and device complexity reduces, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the braking mechanism from force-based control to geometry-based control. By changing the shape parameter (curved profile) of the brake element, the system achieves self-energization. The curved geometry automatically converts relative movement into engagement force, eliminating the need for complex force control systems while the precision requirements are concentrated on the geometric shape rather than dynamic control
3Loss of time
If the brake element is automatically reset by relative movement, then the resetting time decreases, but the mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The brake element automatically resets itself through the same relative movement that triggers braking. As the brake surface moves relative to the brake element, the curved geometry naturally guides the brake element back to its disengaged position, making the reset process self-serving and eliminating the need for separate reset mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the braking action and resetting action into a single integrated process. The same relative movement between the brake element and brake surface that generates braking force also automatically resets the brake element. This consolidation eliminates separate actuation and resetting mechanisms, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining fast response
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 provides a reliable, efficient, and cost-effective means to brake and reset the elevator cage, ensuring safety and reducing the need for additional mechanical components, while allowing for precise adjustment and increased braking force.
Implementation Method 1
The brake element is pressed against the brake surface... Through this entrainment the brake element is in turn moved... pressing of the brake element against the brake surface can take place
Implementation Method 2
The initial force, which can be necessary for moving the brake element up to the brake surface, is provided by a force store. The force store is possibly a stressed spring.
Implementation Method 3
The actuator which can act on the brake element... holding mechanism of the actuator, for example an electromagnet or a latch
Data Source
AI summary
In an elevator installation an elevator cage is movable along at least two guide rails and the elevator cage is equipped with a braking system. An elevator braking device includes a brake element, a force store, which is constructed to press the brake element against the brake surface, and an actuator, which can act on the brake element. A method of operating the braking device includes the actuator pressing, in a first operational setting, the brake element against the force of the force store away from the brake surface or to hold it at a spacing therefrom, and the actuator freeing, in a second operational setting, the brake element and allowing the force store to press the brake element against the brake surface.