Elevator Wheel Decompression Mechanism for Warping Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Elevator car propulsion systems experience high pressure on wheels due to continuous compression, leading to warping or flat spotting when not in use for extended periods, which can cause inefficiencies and maintenance issues.
Innovation Solution
A wheel decompression system that includes separating cams, backup wheels, and actuators to lift wheels away from guide beams, reducing pressure and preventing warping, while allowing the system to be held in place when not in use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the beam climber system remains engaged with the guide beam for extended periods, then the elevator car can be held in place without constant power, but the wheels experience warping and flat spotting due to continuous compression
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically transitions between two states: engaged mode where wheels contact the guide beam for positioning and holding, and decompressed mode where wheels are lifted away to prevent warping. The decompression system allows the beam climber to switch between these states based on operational requirements, making the system adaptable rather than static.
Solution Approach 2:
The decompression system performs preliminary action by lifting the wheels away from the guide beam before warping can occur during idle periods. This preventive measure eliminates the harmful compression effect before it causes damage, while the system remains ready to re-engage quickly when needed.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the wheels are continuously compressed against the guide beam to maintain positioning, then the elevator car remains stable, but energy is consumed and wheels deteriorate over time
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of continuous compression, the system uses periodic engagement where wheels contact the guide beam only when positioning or movement is required. During idle periods, the decompression system lifts the wheels away, creating an on-demand operation pattern that reduces energy consumption and wear while maintaining stability when needed.
3Loss of energy
If the beam climber system is designed to hold position without power, then energy efficiency improves, but wheel maintenance requirements increase due to compression damage
Solution Approach 1:
The decompression system acts as an intermediary mechanism between the beam climber and the guide beam. It provides a mechanical means to lift the wheels away from the guide beam during idle periods, enabling energy-efficient positioning without continuous compression. This intermediary system protects the wheels from damage while maintaining the ability to hold position.
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 effectively alleviates pressure on wheels, preventing warping and maintaining traction, while also saving energy by reducing the need for constant operation of the beam climber system.
Implementation Method 1
a first separating cam located between the first guide beam and a first guide rail of the elevator system, wherein the first separating cam is wedge shaped and configured to move the first backup wheel and the first wheel away from the first guide beam
Implementation Method 2
the first expansion wheel being configured to expand to compress the compression mechanism and push the first wheel away from the first guide beam to relieve pressure on the first wheel
Implementation Method 3
the first linear actuator being configured to expand to compress the compression mechanism and push the first wheel away from the first guide beam to relieve pressure on the first wheel
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 6~7
AI summary
An elevator system (101) including: a beam climber system (130) configured to move an elevator car through an elevator shaft by climbing a first guide beam (111a) that extends vertically through the elevator shaft, the first guide beam including a first surface (112a) and a second surface (112b) opposite the first surface, the beam climber system (130) including: a first wheel (134a) in contact with the first surface (112a); and a first electric motor (132a) configured to rotate the first wheel (134a); and a wheel decompression system configured to move the first wheel (134a) away from the first guide rail (109a).