Motorized Elevator Module for Rescue and Hoistway Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing elevator systems face challenges in efficiently providing rescue operations and maintenance access due to the need for time-consuming interventions when the elevator car is stuck or requires servicing, with different configurations requiring different approaches.
Innovation Solution
A motorized module connected to the elevator cab, controlled by a controller, allows for independent vertical movement and connection with the cab to provide rescue operations and maintenance access, operating in two modes: connected and separate from the cab, and can be positioned above or below it.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If traditional elevator systems are used for rescue operations and maintenance, then the system structure remains simple, but the labor time and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The motorized module is designed to perform multiple functions including normal elevator operation, rescue operations, and maintenance support. The same module can move the cab during regular service and also facilitate rescue operations or maintenance access by positioning the cab at desired locations, eliminating the need for separate specialized equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The motorized module enables the elevator system to perform its own rescue and maintenance operations without requiring extensive external intervention. The module can independently position the cab to facilitate passenger evacuation or technician access, reducing dependency on complex external rescue equipment and manual procedures.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a motorized module is added to enable versatile operations, then the operational versatility improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The motorized module serves as a universal platform that can operate in different modes (connected to cab, separate from cab, positioned above or below) to perform various functions including normal elevator service, rescue operations, and maintenance support, thereby achieving high operational versatility with a single integrated system.
Solution Approach 2:
The motorized module is designed with dynamic operational modes where it can be connected to the cab in different positions (above or below) and can switch between moving the cab and operating independently. This dynamic reconfigurability allows the system to adapt to different operational requirements without requiring multiple fixed systems.
3Productivity
If the motorized module operates in connected mode to move the cab, then the elevator service efficiency improves, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between the motorized module and the cab is designed to be dynamic rather than fixed. The module can be connected above or below the cab depending on operational requirements, and this connection can be established or released as needed. This dynamic connection approach enables efficient elevator service while keeping the connection mechanism relatively simple and adaptable.
Data Source
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AI summary
An illustrative example embodiment of an elevator system (10) includes a cab (24) configured to accommodate at least one passenger (26) or item inside the cab. A motorized module (30) includes a base (32), a connector (34) supported on the base (32) and at least one drive member (40) supported on the base (32). The connector (34) is configured to selectively establish a releasable connection between the motorized module (30) and the cab (24). The drive member (40) is configured to engage a vertical surface (42), climb along the vertical surface (42) to selectively cause vertical movement of the base (32), and selectively prevent movement of the base (32) when the drive member (40) remains in a selected position relative to the vertical surface (42). At least one motor (38) is associated with the drive member (40) to selectively cause the drive member (40) to climb along the vertical surface (42). The motorized module (30) is vertically movable independent of the cab (24) when the motorized module (30) is released from the cab (24).