Integrated Elevator Braking System with Caliper Actuator
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation and setup of separate devices in elevator systems for speed control and emergency braking are costly and time-consuming, as existing technologies require multiple components and complex configurations.
Innovation Solution
A braking system for elevators that integrates a caliper with movable brake pads and a braking actuator, which engages with rails using frictional forces, allowing for both normal operation and emergency braking through a solenoid or linear motor actuator, with redundant plungers and springs for reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate devices (brake, governor, position reference systems, safeties) are installed individually throughout the elevator system, then reliable speed control and emergency braking are achieved, but installation cost and time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the brake and safety functions into a single integrated braking system. The caliper assembly with brake pads and safety elements is mounted as one unit on the elevator car, eliminating the need for separate brake and safety devices. This merging reduces the number of components to be installed and configured, directly addressing the installation time and cost issue while maintaining reliable speed control and emergency braking through the integrated design.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated braking system performs multiple functions within a single device. The caliper assembly serves as both a holding brake during normal operation and a safety brake during emergencies. The same mechanical structure provides both routine speed control and emergency stopping capabilities, eliminating the need for separate dedicated devices for each function and simplifying installation.
2Reliability
If multiple separate devices (brake, governor, position reference systems, safeties) are installed individually throughout the elevator system, then comprehensive safety coverage is achieved, but installation complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the brake and safety functions into a single integrated braking system. The caliper assembly with brake pads and safety elements is mounted as one unit on the elevator car, eliminating the need for separate brake and safety devices. This merging reduces the number of components to be installed and configured, directly addressing the installation time and cost issue while maintaining reliable speed control and emergency braking through the integrated design.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated braking system performs multiple functions within a single device. The caliper assembly serves as both a holding brake during normal operation and a safety brake during emergencies. The same mechanical structure provides both routine speed control and emergency stopping capabilities, eliminating the need for separate dedicated devices for each function and simplifying installation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If hydraulic braking systems with multiple pistons and electromagnets are used for integrated holding and safety braking, then braking functionality is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the complex hydraulic actuation system with multiple pistons and electromagnets and replaces it with a simpler mechanical plunger mechanism. The spring-loaded plunger provides the necessary braking force through direct mechanical action on the brake pads, eliminating the need for hydraulic fluid, multiple pistons, and electromagnetic actuators while maintaining the integrated holding and safety braking functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a simple spring-loaded plunger mechanism instead of expensive hydraulic systems with multiple electromagnets. This simpler mechanical solution reduces manufacturing costs and device complexity while achieving the same braking functionality through reliable spring force and friction-based brake engagement.
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 integrated braking system simplifies installation, reduces costs, and provides reliable speed control and emergency braking by using a single actuator to engage and disengage brake pads with rails, ensuring efficient and safe elevator operation.
Implementation Method 1
The braking system interacts with the rails to slow and/or stop the elevator car
Implementation Method 2
A braking actuator, such as a solenoid or linear motor, includes one or more plunger springs
Implementation Method 3
A braking actuator, such as a solenoid or linear motor, includes one or more plunger springs
Implementation Method 4
A braking actuator, such as a solenoid or linear motor, includes one or more plunger springs
Data Source
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AI summary
An elevator system includes one or more rails fixed in a hoistway and an elevator car configured to move through the hoistway along the one or more rails. The system includes one or more braking systems having one more braking surfaces secured to the elevator car and frictionally engageable with one or more rails of the elevator system. One or more actuators are operably connected to the one or more braking surfaces configured to urge engagement and/or disengagement of the one or more braking surfaces with the rail to stop and/or hold the elevator car during operation of the elevator system.