Escalator Drive Chain Tensioning With Self-Adjusting Pressing Blocks
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Solution Overview
Problem
The handrail band drive chain in escalator systems loosens over time, requiring frequent adjustments to pivot points and guiding rolls, leading to heavy maintenance work and quality issues.
Innovation Solution
A tension device with pressing blocks and a support assembly that applies pressure to the drive chain using weights or pre-loaded springs, allowing for automatic tensioning without the need for periodic adjustments to pivot points.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If the drive chain is used for an extended period, then the handrail system operates continuously, but the drive chain loosens requiring periodic adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a dynamic tensioning mechanism where the distance between pressing blocks can be adjusted. The connecting rods with hinges allow the pressing blocks to move dynamically, maintaining optimal chain tension as the chain loosens over time, rather than using a fixed static structure
Solution Approach 2:
The tension device performs preliminary tensioning action on the drive chain before it becomes excessively loose. By continuously applying pressing force through the pressing blocks, the system prevents the chain from reaching a state requiring manual intervention, maintaining tension proactively throughout operation
2Reliability
If pivot points are moved to tension the chain, then chain tension is restored, but heavy maintenance work is required
Solution Approach 1:
The tension device is self-regulating through its mechanical design. As the drive chain loosens, the pressing blocks naturally move closer together via the hinge mechanism, automatically applying increased tension without requiring external intervention. The system serves itself by detecting and correcting tension loss
Solution Approach 2:
The pressing blocks act as intermediary elements between the fixed support structure and the moving drive chain. Rather than moving the entire pivot point or drive wheel, the pressing blocks provide localized tensioning force at multiple points along the chain, simplifying the maintenance requirement
3Extent of automation
If pressing blocks are used to tension the chain, then automatic tensioning is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tension device is segmented into modular components: support assemblies mounted on the frame, connecting rods with hinges, and pressing blocks that contact the chain. Each segment performs a specific function and can be independently adjusted or replaced, managing complexity through functional decomposition
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of moving the drive wheel pivot point outward to tension the chain (conventional approach), this invention applies pressing force inward from both sides of the chain. The pressing blocks move toward each other to compress the chain laterally, creating tension through a reverse mechanical action
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
Eliminates the need for frequent adjustments to pivot points and guiding rolls, reducing maintenance work and improving the quality of the handrail system by maintaining chain tension automatically and reliably.
Implementation Method 1
a weight applies pressures to the connecting rods
Implementation Method 2
a pre-loaded spring applies pressures to the connecting rods
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure discloses a tension device (2) for a drive chain (11) of a handrail system (1) of an escalator system, a method and an escalator system including the same. The tension device (2) for the drive chain (11) applies pressures in opposite directions to a drive chain (11) so as to make portions of the drive chain (11) close to each other to tension the drive chain (11). The pressures are applied to the drive chain (11) via a weight (5) or a pre-loaded spring (5'). The present disclosure also provides a method for tensioning a drive chain. The present disclosure can eliminate loosening of the drive chain after running several months, eliminate periodic heavy work on site for the escalator system and a drive system comprising the drive chain, and improve quality thereof in a simple, reliable and low cost manner.