Guide Rail Locking Device for Pneumatic Vacuum Elevators

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional locking devices for guide rails in pneumatic vacuum elevators are time-consuming and expensive to assemble, often leave air gaps, leading to improper functioning and vibrations due to loose connectivity between components.

Innovation Solution

A locking device with a first edge featuring teeth-shaped projections to compress and lock a covering sheet on a base ring, and a second edge with a V-shaped groove to interlock with the guide rail, eliminating air gaps and ensuring secure connectivity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional locking devices are used to seal the air gap, then the air gap is sealed, but the assembling duration becomes time-consuming and expensive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveair gap sealingVSAvoidassembling duration
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The locking device is divided into multiple functional edges: a first edge with teeth-shaped projections for compressing the covering sheet, and a second edge with a V-shaped groove for interlocking with the guide rail. This segmentation allows each edge to perform its specific function efficiently, reducing overall assembly time while maintaining reliable air gap sealing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The locking device merges multiple functions into a single integrated component: the first edge handles compression and locking of the covering sheet, the second edge handles interlocking with the guide rail, and together they seal the air gap. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate sealing components, reducing assembly steps and time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Stability of the object's composition

If conventional locking devices are fixed with the guide rail, then the guide rail is locked, but air gaps are left and connectivity is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveguide rail lockingVSAvoidconnectivity
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The locking device applies local quality through its differentiated edges: the first edge with teeth-shaped projections provides localized compression on the covering sheet, while the second edge with the V-shaped groove provides localized interlocking with the guide rail. This localized approach ensures secure locking at each interface while maintaining overall connectivity and eliminating air gaps.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Strength

If conventional locking devices are used, then the guide rail is secured, but the structure becomes complex and compact design is difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveguide rail securityVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The locking device embodies multi-functionality through its dual-edge design: the first edge compresses and locks the covering sheet, the second edge interlocks with the guide rail, and together they seal the air gap. This universal design achieves secure guide rail fixation without requiring multiple separate components, thereby reducing structural complexity while maintaining strength.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS11802021B2Locking device for a guide rail and a method thereof
Publication Date: 2023.10.31 BABU KILLAKATHU RAMANATHAN
  • US11802021B2 patent drawing
  • US11802021B2 patent drawing
  • US11802021B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A locking device for a guide rail is disclosed. The device includes a first edge including a plurality of teeth shaped projections. The first edge compresses and locks a first surface of a covering sheet placed on a base ring. The device also includes a second edge opposing the first edge. The second edge includes a V-shaped groove, wherein the second edge is disposed to hold at least one furrow of the guide rail for interlocking. The first edge and the second edge of the locking device locks air gap between the covering sheet, the guide rail connecting one or more surfaces of the base ring and a vertical pillar coupled to the guide rail.