Laser-Guided Elevator Alignment System

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing elevator installation alignment systems face challenges in maintaining precise alignment, particularly in large shafts, due to manual fixing of cords which can disrupt the alignment process and require complex measurements for door and guide placement.

Innovation Solution

A laser-guided alignment system that uses a cord with a special weighted end, emitting a laser beam to indicate the exact fixation point on the bottom, allowing for precise alignment of elevator guides and doors without manual measurement, utilizing a base that can be securely fixed with screws and a threaded weight.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If manual fixing of cords is used to align elevator components, then the alignment process can be completed, but the precision of alignment is compromised due to human error and disruption during manual tying

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvealignment precisionVSAvoidmanual fixing difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the manual mechanical fixing process with an automated laser-based positioning system. The laser device projects a precise alignment point that guides the automatic fixing mechanism, eliminating manual intervention and its associated errors. This substitution of manual mechanical operations with automated optical-mechanical systems directly resolves the contradiction between alignment precision and operational ease.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The alignment system incorporates self-aligning features where the laser automatically indicates the correct position and the fixing mechanism automatically secures the cord at the precise location without requiring manual adjustment. The system serves itself by providing automatic positioning and fixing, eliminating the need for skilled manual operation while maintaining high precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Measurement precision

If complex measurements and calculations are performed for each floor door alignment, then accurate positioning can be achieved, but the installation time and complexity increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedoor positioning accuracyVSAvoidinstallation time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex manual measurement and calculation processes with an automated laser measurement and positioning system. The laser device automatically measures distances and calculates positions, projecting the correct alignment point without requiring installers to perform manual computations. This substitution dramatically reduces installation time while maintaining or improving positioning accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The laser system creates an optical copy or projection of the ideal alignment point, allowing installers to simply follow the projected point rather than performing complex calculations. The virtual alignment point serves as a direct visual guide, replacing the need for mathematical computations and transferring the complexity from the installation process to the pre-programmed laser system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

3Stability of the object's composition

If the cord is tied to the base after coming to rest, then the alignment can be established, but the act of tying disrupts the alignment and reduces stability

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvealignment stabilityVSAvoidalignment accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The laser alignment point is established and stabilized before the cord fixing process begins. The system pre-calculates and projects the exact alignment position, allowing the cord to be positioned and fixed without disrupting the already-established alignment. The preliminary establishment of the alignment reference ensures that subsequent fixing actions do not compromise stability or accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the disruptive manual tying process with an automated fixing mechanism that secures the cord at the precise laser-indicated position without manual manipulation. This automated process minimizes disturbance to the alignment while ensuring reliable fixation, resolving the contradiction between stability and accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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

Ensures accurate and stable alignment of elevator components by automatically indicating the correct fixation point and maintaining tension, reducing human error and the need for complex calculations, ensuring proper alignment and vertical balance.

Implementation Method 1

A laser-guided alignment system that uses a cord with a special weighted end, emitting a laser beam to indicate the exact fixation point on the bottom

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLaser: Laser

Implementation Method 2

a cord (1), which is fixed to the ceiling of an elevator shaft... a special threaded weight (2)... The cord (1) with the special weight (2) tied to its end is released until it comes to rest

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGravity: Gravitation

Data Source

PatentEP4382470A1Alignment system for installing an elevator
Publication Date: 2024.06.12 KLEEMANN HELLAS SA
  • EP4382470A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4382470A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4382470A1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The present invention relates to an alignment system for installing an elevator, where a cord (1) is left from the elevator roof to come to rest. At the end of the cord (1) there is a threaded weight (2), with a source for the emission of a laser beam (3), which indicates the exact position of fixation (4) of the base (5) at the bottom of the installation. The base (5) is screwed with fixing screws (7) to the bottom. The weight (2) is screwed into the recess (6) of the base (5) and fixed. Each floor door (8) has semi-circular fittings (9) through which the cord (1) passes to ensure the alignment of the doors (8).