Elevator Guide Rail Alignment Apparatus with Inductive Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for aligning elevator guide rail elements are time-consuming and prone to variations in quality, leading to potential misalignment and resulting vibrations and noise during elevator operation.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus comprising a stationary part, an elongated measuring frame with inductive sensors, and visualization means to measure and align guide rail elements in real-time, ensuring precise alignment by directing sensors between the rail elements and displaying results for immediate adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional manual alignment methods using square bars and visual inspection are used, then the alignment process is simple and requires minimal equipment, but the alignment quality varies depending on the mechanic and is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical alignment system (square bars, visual inspection by hand) with an automated optical measurement system. Inductive sensors mounted on a measuring frame automatically detect the positions of guide rail elements, eliminating the need for manual visual inspection and subjective judgment by mechanics.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement system is self-contained and autonomous. The inductive sensors automatically measure the positions of guide rail elements without requiring manual intervention for each measurement point. The system independently completes the alignment inspection and provides data for adjustment.
2Productivity
If manual alignment methods are used, then the equipment required is minimal and simple, but the alignment process is time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The measuring frame serves multiple functions: it provides a stable mounting structure for multiple inductive sensors, acts as a reference frame for position measurement, and supports the entire alignment inspection process. This multi-functional design increases productivity without proportionally increasing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces time-consuming manual measurement procedures with automated optical/electrical sensing. Inductive sensors electronically detect positions without manual intervention, significantly increasing alignment speed while the integrated nature of the measurement system keeps the overall device complexity manageable.
3Reliability
If visual inspection with light sources is used, then the method is simple and requires basic tools, but alignment quality is inconsistent and dependent on human factors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces subjective visual inspection with objective automated sensing. Inductive sensors provide precise, repeatable measurements that are not affected by human factors such as lighting conditions, observer fatigue, or subjective judgment. This ensures consistent and reliable alignment accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement system provides quantitative feedback on the positions of guide rail elements. The inductive sensors measure actual positions and can compare them against specified tolerances, providing objective feedback that ensures consistent alignment accuracy regardless of who performs the measurement.
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 apparatus streamlines the alignment process, reduces human error, and ensures consistent high-quality alignment, minimizing vibrations and noise, thereby enhancing elevator performance.
Implementation Method 1
a number of inductive sensors being positioned on the measuring frame, whereby at least a part of the inductive sensors are directed in a first direction being the direction between the guide rails towards a tip of the guide rail elements
Data Source
AI summary
The apparatus includes a stationary part being attachable to an elevator guide rail element at a predetermined height above a joint between two consecutive end-on-end mounted elevator guide rail elements. An elongated measuring frame having an upper end and a lower end is supported from the upper end with an articulated joint at the stationary part. A number of inductive sensors are positioned on the measuring frame, whereby at least a part of the inductive sensors are directed in a first direction being the direction between the guide rails towards a tip of the guide rail elements, said part being further divided into two sub parts so that a first sub part of the inductive sensors is directed towards the upper elevator guide rail element and the rest are directed towards the lower elevator guide rail element. The apparatus further includes a connection board for the inductive sensors, a visualization device, electronics, and a power source.