Machine-Roomless Elevator Rack Layout for Compact Drive Integration

Solution Overview

Problem

Elevator power devices and components in existing systems are inefficient in terms of structural layout, performance, manufacturing costs, installation, and maintenance, necessitating improvements for enhanced efficiency and safety.

Innovation Solution

A rack for a machine roomless elevator system comprising a base, bracket, and a rotating member with bearings for supporting the rotating member, which reduces torque load and space requirements, and includes a liner for friction and vibration reduction, along with a brake for control.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If traditional elevator power devices and components are used, then the system can provide sufficient driving force, but the structural layout becomes complex and equipment volume increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates the motor, brake, and rotating member into a single compact rack assembly. The motor is positioned adjacent to the rotating member with direct mechanical coupling, and the brake is integrated onto the same structural platform, eliminating the need for separate mounting structures and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining full driving functionality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The rack structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support for the motor and brake, acts as a mounting platform for the rotating member, and functions as a space-saving integration hub for all power transmission components. This multi-functional design reduces the number of separate components needed in traditional elevator systems

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If traditional elevator components are used, then the system can operate reliably, but installation and maintenance operations become difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The elevator power system is divided into a modular rack assembly that can be installed as a single unit. The rack contains all critical components (motor, brake, rotating member) pre-assembled and pre-aligned, allowing for simplified installation by mounting the entire assembly rather than individually installing multiple separate components, thereby improving ease of operation while maintaining reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The rack structure acts as an intermediary platform that pre-integrates all power transmission components with precise alignment. This intermediary assembly eliminates the need for complex on-site alignment and adjustment operations, making installation and maintenance more straightforward while ensuring reliable mechanical connections

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Force

If conventional elevator systems are used, then the system can provide sufficient lifting capacity, but manufacturing and usage costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

By merging the motor, brake, and rotating member into a single integrated rack assembly, the patent reduces the total number of parts that need to be manufactured, inventoried, and assembled. This consolidation simplifies the manufacturing supply chain, reduces assembly labor costs, and lowers overall system cost while maintaining full lifting capacity through the integrated power transmission design

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 solution provides a compact, easy-to-install, and safe elevator system with reduced equipment volume and costs, improved spatial layout, and enhanced safety performance.

Implementation Method 1

the rotating member is rotatably supported on the support portion through a first bearing on a first side

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectBall bearing: Ball Bearing

Implementation Method 2

the rotating member is rotatably supported on the bracket through a second bearing on a second side opposite to the first side

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectBall bearing: Ball Bearing

Implementation Method 3

the engagement portion is provided with a liner and the tension member is sleeved on the liner

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction reduction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS20260048965A1Rack for machine roomless elevator system, elevator lifting drive and elevator system
Publication Date: 2026.02.19
  • US20260048965A1 patent drawing
  • US20260048965A1 patent drawing
  • US20260048965A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A rack for a machine roomless elevator system, an elevator lifting drive, and an elevator system are disclosed. The rack includes: a base, configured to be fixed to an upper portion within an elevator shaft; a bracket, connected to the base and defining an accommodating space together with the base; and a rotating member, arranged in the accommodating space and rotatably supported on a support portion extending from the base towards the accommodating space, the rotating member having an engagement portion configured to engage a tension member, and rotating after receiving a driving force and driving an elevator traveling device connected to the tension member to travel along the elevator shaft through the tension member.