Elevator Brake Torque Sensing for Smooth Car Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing elevator systems face challenges in controlling brake torque without relying on load measurement, leading to potential vertical movement imbalances and passenger discomfort due to load changes, and existing solutions either require load measurement or have limitations in detecting brake drag.
Innovation Solution
A brake device with a sensor system that monitors and controls torque by detecting force changes in the brake device's mounting member relative to the machine frame, allowing for precise adjustment of motor torque to alleviate torque on the brake and detect brake drag, eliminating the need for accurate torque measurement and conventional brake switches.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If load measurement techniques are used to pre-torque the motor, then passenger comfort is improved by avoiding car movement, but device complexity increases due to load measurement requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the torque monitoring function from the load measurement system by directly monitoring brake torque through a sensor on the mounting member, eliminating the need for load measurement while maintaining the ability to prevent car movement and ensure passenger comfort
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a torque sensor as an intermediary device that directly measures brake torque through the mounting member, serving as a mediator between the brake system and control system, replacing complex load measurement techniques with a simpler direct torque monitoring approach
2Reliability
If conventional brake switches are used to detect brake drag, then brake drag detection is possible, but measurement precision is insufficient for accurate torque monitoring
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical brake switches with a force sensor that provides precise torque measurement, substituting a simple mechanical detection system with a more advanced sensing system that offers both reliability and measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the force sensor continuously monitors brake torque and provides real-time information to the control system, enabling accurate detection of brake drag and precise adjustment of motor torque to maintain optimal brake torque levels
3Device complexity
If brake torque is not properly controlled, then device complexity is reduced, but passenger comfort deteriorates due to vertical movement imbalances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service system where the force sensor automatically monitors brake torque and the control system automatically adjusts motor torque accordingly, eliminating the need for complex manual control mechanisms while ensuring passenger comfort through automatic torque balancing
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
Enables smooth elevator transitions by adjusting motor torque based on detected forces, effectively addressing torque imbalances and brake drag issues without requiring load measurement, improving passenger comfort and system reliability.
Implementation Method 1
A sensor, such as a force sensor, is provided and detects a force associated with torque on the brake device
Data Source
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AI summary
An exemplary brake device includes a brake element configured to apply a braking force to resist rotation of an associated component. A mounting member is configured to mount the brake device to a stationary surface. The mounting member is at least partially moveable relative to the stationary surface responsive to a torque on the brake device. A sensor provides an indication of a force associated with any movement of the mounting member relative to the stationary surface responsive to the torque.