Elevator Cabin Vertical Horizontal Movement System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for vertical and horizontal movement of transport cabins in plant elevators are complex, energy-intensive, and costly, often requiring multiple motors and extensive infrastructure, which hampers efficient and flexible operation.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a 'U' portal with slide means and carriage mechanisms for horizontal movement, combined with a closed ring chain driven by a single motor for both vertical and horizontal movement, along with an adaptive balancing system using hydraulic cylinders and load cells to optimize energy use and reduce structural bulk.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional multiple motor systems are used for vertical and horizontal movement, then movement reliability is improved, but device complexity and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines vertical and horizontal movement functions into a single integrated system. The cabin is suspended by a cable from a traveling carriage that moves horizontally along the portal structure, while the cabin itself moves vertically. This single integrated mechanism replaces what would traditionally require separate motors and control systems for each movement direction, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliable bidirectional movement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The traveling carriage system serves multiple functions: it provides horizontal transportation along the portal, supports the cabin vertically, and enables bidirectional movement. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for dedicated mechanisms for each movement type, reducing the number of components and simplifying the overall system architecture while ensuring reliable operation through a unified control mechanism.
2Measurement precision
If traditional multiple motor systems are used for vertical and horizontal movement, then movement control precision is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a counterweight system where a balancing mass is suspended to offset the weight of the cabin and load. This counterbalancing mechanism reduces the energy required for vertical movement by the motor, as the motor only needs to overcome the difference in weight rather than the full gravitational force. The system maintains precise movement control while significantly reducing energy consumption during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs periodic acceleration and deceleration cycles optimized for the specific movement patterns required. By coordinating the horizontal and vertical movement phases efficiently and minimizing idle operation time, the system reduces overall energy consumption while maintaining the precision needed for safe passenger transport through the portal structure.
3Reliability
If elevated bridges are used to separate physical flows, then safety is improved, but construction cost and space occupation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the vertical dimension by positioning the cabin transport system above the portal structure, effectively creating an elevated transportation path. This vertical placement separates the pedestrian flow in the portal from any ground-level vehicle traffic, enhancing safety through physical separation while minimizing the horizontal space footprint compared to traditional elevated bridges.
Solution Approach 2:
The cabin and its supporting mechanisms are nested within the portal structure itself. The traveling carriage runs along the portal's horizontal beams, and the cabin hangs vertically from this carriage, integrating the transportation system into the existing architectural framework. This nesting approach provides safe separation of flows while efficiently utilizing the available space within the portal structure.
4Area of stationary object
If underground passages are used for obstacle overcoming, then space occupation is reduced, but construction cost and maintenance cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The portal structure is divided into functional segments: vertical guide columns, horizontal guide beams, and a separate traveling carriage system. This segmentation allows for modular construction and assembly, reducing overall construction costs compared to monolithic underground passages. The modular design enables easier manufacturing and installation while maintaining a compact footprint that minimizes space occupation.
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 simplifies the system by reducing the number of motors, energy consumption, and structural dimensions, while enhancing movement speed and safety, and allows for efficient use of space, with adaptive balancing ensuring efficient energy recovery during cycles of movement.
Implementation Method 1
the said cabin (20) is moved vertically and horizontally by means of a closed ring chain (100) to which is bound the slide (200), said chain (100) of the type driven by a motor (110)
Implementation Method 2
an adaptive balancing system using hydraulic cylinders and load cells to optimize energy use and reduce structural bulk
Implementation Method 3
an adaptive balancing system using hydraulic cylinders and load cells to optimize energy use
Data Source
AI summary
Handling system of a cabin of transportation (20) moveable along an overhead type “U” portal (10), that connects two stations of departure (A) and arrival (B), the system includes columns (11, 12, 13, 14) and guide beams (15, 16) to which the cabin (2) is bound by a slide (200) apt to make the horizontal movement with respect to the guide beams (15, 16), with a carriage (300) apt to perform the vertical movement with respect to the guide columns (11, 12, 13, 14). The carriage (300) being engageable with the slide (200) to accomplish the vertical movement with respect to the guide columns (11, 12, 13, 14). The cabin (20) is moved in the vertical and horizontal direction by a closed ring chain (100) to which is bound the slide (200), and the chain (1100) is driven by a motor (110).