Escalator Modernization Using 3D Framework Digital Twins
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for modernizing passenger transport systems like escalators and moving walkways are costly and time-consuming due to the need for specialized personnel to measure and adapt the supporting framework on-site, which requires expertise and increases financial and personnel expenditure.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the generation of a three-dimensional supporting framework model data set using image recording devices attached to the conveyor belt, allowing for precise measurement and adaptation without on-site specialists, utilizing customer-specific configuration data to create a digital double data set that includes adapter components designed for optimal fit and resource efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If specialized personnel are used to measure and adapt the supporting framework on-site, then measurement precision and adaptation accuracy are improved, but labor costs and personnel expenditure increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a digital three-dimensional model (digital twin) of the supporting framework that copies its geometric and structural characteristics. This digital model enables precise measurements and adaptations to be performed virtually without requiring specialized personnel to physically measure and adapt the framework on-site, thereby maintaining measurement precision while reducing labor costs
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical process of manual measurement and on-site adaptation with a digital information processing system. Image recording devices capture the framework, create a 3D model, and enable virtual adaptations, substituting physical measurement activities with digital processes that reduce dependency on specialized personnel
2Manufacturing precision
If the supporting framework is measured and adapted on-site by specialists, then adaptation accuracy is improved, but the modernization process time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by creating a complete digital three-dimensional model of the supporting framework before the actual modernization work begins. All measurements, adaptations, and planning are conducted in the digital domain in advance, allowing the physical implementation to proceed more quickly without compromising adaptation accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
By creating a digital copy (digital twin) of the supporting framework, the patent enables all adaptation work to be performed virtually in advance. This digital model preserves the exact geometric and structural characteristics, ensuring adaptation accuracy while eliminating the time-consuming on-site measurement and adjustment processes
3Productivity
If a replacement passenger transport system is manufactured in a standardized manner in a factory, then manufacturing efficiency is improved, but transport effort and installation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the passenger transport system into modular components, with the supporting framework remaining in place and only the conveyor belt and associated components being replaced. This segmentation allows factory-manufactured modular units to be installed without requiring complete system replacement, reducing transport effort and installation complexity while maintaining high manufacturing efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal supporting framework that can accommodate different conveyor belt designs and configurations. This universal framework, once installed, can support various standardized factory-manufactured conveyor units, reducing installation complexity while allowing efficient factory production of standardized components
Data Source
AI summary
A modernization method of an existing passenger transport system which is designed as an escalator or a moving walkway is disclosed. In the process, the modernization method can include generating a three-dimensional supporting framework model data set of the existing supporting framework, integrating the same into a digital double data set, producing the required components on the basis of the digital double data set, and installing said components into the existing framework.