Escalator Module Alignment System for Modernization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing escalator modernization methods are inefficient due to the lack of precision and adaptability in aligning new modules with the original system's working points, leading to complex and time-consuming assembly processes.
Innovation Solution
A modular transport system with adjustable supports and alignment systems, utilizing precision positioning and verification means, such as levels and laser alignment, to ensure accurate placement of modules along the original system's structure, allowing for both fixed and adjustable methods to align entrance, exit, and central modules with the existing framework.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If modular components are used to modernize escalators, then assembly is simplified and new technology can be installed, but precision alignment with original working points becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces alignment jigs and fixtures as intermediary tools that mediate between the modular components and the original escalator structure. These jigs provide reference surfaces and mechanical constraints that ensure modules align precisely with original working points during assembly, resolving the contradiction between ease of assembly and alignment precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs preliminary positioning features and pre-machined alignment surfaces on modules before final assembly. Working points are pre-established on both the original structure and new modules, allowing for precise alignment to be achieved during assembly without requiring complex adjustments, thus maintaining both simplicity and precision.
2Adaptability or versatility
If all components are removed except structure, then modernization flexibility increases, but assembly time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the escalator into modular segments (steps, handrails, drive units) that can be independently removed, modernized, and reassembled. This segmentation allows selective replacement of components based on modernization needs while preserving the structural framework, balancing flexibility with assembly efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs universal mounting interfaces and standardized working points that allow the same modular components to be installed on different escalator models. This universality enables modernization flexibility across various configurations while reducing assembly time through standardized procedures and interchangeable parts.
Data Source
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AI summary
Module (101, 201) to be placed on a support (1), transport system for displacement of people/goods modernized with the module and modernization method of transport systems for displacement of people/goods. The support (1) has: fixings (11) to fix the support (1) to a bearing structure (10) of the transport system, horizontal tie plates (12) to support and horizontally place the module (101, 201), lateral tie plates (13) to support and laterally place the module (101, 201), longitudinal tie plates (14) to support and longitudinally place the module (101, 201). The module has positioning and verification equipment (101A, 201A, 301A) to place the module (101, 201, 301) maintaining within tolerances the system lines of the transport system. The transport system has: a support (1) and an entrance (101)/exit (201)/central (301) module on an entrance (100)/exit (200) finished floor/in a central section.