Leaf Damper for Elevator Linear Propulsion Vibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing self-propelled elevator systems experience vibrations due to high dynamic forces from magnetic structures, leading to resonance and deformation of secondary portions, which affects air gap widths and ride quality.
Innovation Solution
A linear propulsion assembly with a primary portion of electric coils and a secondary portion of magnets, utilizing a leaf damper with multiple viscoelastic and rigid layers to dissipate vibrations and maintain consistent air gap widths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If linear motors with permanent magnets are used in self-propelled elevator systems, then propulsion capability is improved, but vibrations and resonances are generated that deform secondary portions and affect air gap widths
Solution Approach 1:
A leaf damper is introduced as an intermediary element between the secondary portion and the rail structure. This damper absorbs and dissipates vibration energy generated by the linear motor, preventing vibrations from propagating through the structure. The leaf damper acts as a mediator that isolates the harmful vibrations while allowing the propulsion system to function effectively
Solution Approach 2:
The vibration energy generated by the linear motor is converted into beneficial damping forces through the leaf damper. The damper transforms the harmful vibrational energy into heat through internal friction and material hysteresis, effectively dissipating the energy that would otherwise cause resonances and deformations. This converts the harmful vibration into a controlled energy dissipation process
2Force
If high dynamic forces are applied to secondary portions with permanent magnets, then thrust performance is improved, but structural deformation occurs affecting ride quality
Solution Approach 1:
The leaf damper is pre-installed on the secondary portion structure before operation begins. This cushioning element is positioned in advance to absorb and mitigate the high dynamic forces and resulting vibrations during motor operation. The damper provides preemptive protection against structural deformation caused by thrust forces
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
The leaf damper effectively attenuates vibrations, preventing deformation of secondary portions and maintaining consistent thrust and ride quality by dissipating vibration energy and adding structural rigidity.
Implementation Method 1
a leaf damper in contact with the rail for dissipating vibration
Implementation Method 2
The leaf damper effectively attenuates vibrations, preventing deformation of secondary portions and maintaining consistent thrust and ride quality by dissipating vibration energy
Data Source
AI summary
An elevator system may include a stationary support structure defining a hoistway; a car disposed in the hoistway; a linear propulsion assembly for applying a force to the car, the assembly including a first rail engaged to one of the support structure and the car, a plurality of magnets mounted to the first rail, a second rail co-extending with and spaced laterally from the first rail and engaged to the other of the support structure and the car, and a plurality of electric coils mounted to the second rail; and, a damper engaged to at least one of the first and second rails for dissipating vibration.