Double Deck Elevator Suspension Assembly Adjustable Spacing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing double-deck elevator systems face challenges in efficiently adjusting the spacing between elevator cars, leading to increased weight and cost due to the need for larger motors and counterweights, while traditional adjustment mechanisms offer limited adjustment range and are not compatible with varied building configurations.
Innovation Solution
A double-deck elevator system with a suspension assembly featuring a positive drive load bearing member, such as a chain or toothed belt, and flexible or rigid load bearing members, allowing for adjustable spacing between elevator cabs using a drive sprocket mechanism, which reduces weight and cost by enabling greater freedom of movement and compatibility with diverse building layouts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional adjustment mechanisms are used in double-deck elevators, then the spacing between elevator cars can be adjusted, but the adjustment range is limited and additional weight is required
Solution Approach 1:
The suspension assembly employs flexible members (ropes or belts) that can dynamically adjust their configuration to accommodate varying spacing between elevator cars. The flexible members connect the first and second elevator cars to the frame, allowing continuous adjustment of inter-car distance without requiring rigid structural modifications or additional heavy components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If larger motors and counterweights are used to support adjustable spacing mechanisms, then the elevator system can accommodate varied building configurations, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The suspension assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it suspends the elevator cars from the frame, enables adjustment of spacing between cars, and accommodates various building configurations. By integrating these functions into a single lightweight mechanism using flexible members and sheaves, the system achieves versatility without requiring separate heavy-duty components for each function.
3Stability of the object's composition
If rigid adjustment mechanisms are used to maintain spacing between elevator cars, then structural stability is improved, but the adjustment flexibility and weight efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The suspension assembly utilizes flexible members (ropes or belts) that can bend and conform to different configurations while maintaining structural integrity. These flexible members connect the elevator cars to the frame through sheaves, providing both stability during operation and flexibility for adjustment, eliminating the need for rigid adjustment mechanisms.
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 system achieves adjustable spacing between elevator cars, reducing weight and cost, and accommodating various building configurations by utilizing different materials and mechanisms, providing a more versatile and cost-effective solution for double-deck elevator systems.
Implementation Method 1
A machine includes a drive sprocket that moves the positive drive load bearing member to cause movement of the first and second elevator cabs relative to the frame
Implementation Method 2
the flexible member is situated to wrap at least partially around the sheaves
Data Source
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AI summary
An illustrative example elevator system (20) includes a frame (22), a first elevator cab (32, 34), a second elevator cab (32, 34), and a plurality of sheaves (36, 38) associated with the first and second elevator cabs (32), respectively. A suspension assembly (40) suspends the first and second elevator cabs (32) within the frame (22). The suspension assembly (40) has two ends in a fixed position relative to the frame (22). The suspension assembly (40) includes a positive drive load bearing member (42) along a first portion (52) of a length of the suspension assembly (40) and at least one other second load bearing member. A machine includes a drive sprocket (60) that moves the positive drive load bearing member (42) to cause movement of the first and second elevator cabs (32) relative to the frame (22).