Flexible Elevator Machine Frame Adapter Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traction-drive elevator systems require multiple fixed configurations and arrangements to meet varying needs, and existing solutions lack the ability to modify machines to accommodate changes in traction sheaves and grooves without disassembly and replacement.
Innovation Solution
A flexible elevator machine frame with an adapter assembly that allows for the accommodation of varying numbers of traction sheaves and grooves, enabling expansion or modification by adding additional traction assemblies and adapter elements between the motor and brake.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple fixed configurations of machine frames are produced to meet varying elevator needs, then the system can accommodate different traction sheaves and grooves, but the manufacturing complexity and inventory requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The machine frame is designed with a universal central portion that can accommodate multiple traction configurations through the addition of adapter assemblies. Instead of producing multiple fixed configurations, a single base frame design serves multiple functions by accepting different numbers and arrangements of traction sheaves and grooves via adapters.
Solution Approach 2:
The machine frame is segmented into a central portion and adapter assemblies that can be independently configured. The central portion contains the motor and brake, while adapter assemblies are added to accommodate specific traction configurations, allowing modular adaptation without redesigning the entire frame.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a machine is modified to support additional traction sheaves and grooves, then the system becomes more versatile, but the modification requires disassembly and replacement of the entire machine
Solution Approach 1:
The machine frame is divided into a permanent central portion and removable adapter assemblies. When modification is needed, only the adapter assembly needs to be removed and replaced, not the entire machine. This segmentation enables simple field modifications without disassembly and replacement of the complete machine.
Solution Approach 2:
The machine frame transitions from a static fixed configuration to a dynamic configurable system. The adapter assemblies can be added or removed based on operational requirements, allowing the machine to adapt its capacity without permanent modification or complete replacement.
3Productivity
If standard frames are produced in advance for different configurations, then the system is ready to meet various needs, but the inventory costs and production complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of producing multiple variants of complete machine frames, the invention produces a single universal central portion design that can serve multiple configurations. This reduces the quantity of frame variants from several complete designs to one base design plus a family of adapter assemblies.
Solution Approach 2:
The variable configuration elements (adapter assemblies for different traction arrangements) are extracted from the main frame design. This allows the central portion to be produced as a standard universal component, while the specific configuration needs are met through separate, interchangeable adapter assemblies.
Data Source
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AI summary
A flexible elevator machine frame is provided. The flexible elevator machine frame includes a first end supportive of a motor, a second end supportive of a brake, a central portion and an adapter assembly. The central portion is interposable between the first and second ends and is configured to accommodate a base traction assembly between the motor and the brake. The central portion includes first and second end sides which are associated with the first and second ends, respectively, and which are configured to be fastened together. The adapter assembly is configured to be fastened between the first and second end sides to accommodate the base and an additional traction assembly between the motor and the brake.