Energy Saving Device for Lifts Using Mechanical Balancing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Handling plants, such as lifts and cup elevators, consume significant energy due to the need for electric motors to overcome the weight difference between cabs and counterweights, as well as passive resistance, leading to high energy absorption during operation.

Innovation Solution

A mechanical device with multiple rotating members and transmission means is installed, allowing for a balanced torque that cancels out the weight difference between the cab and counterweight, reducing the torque required from the motor to only overcome passive resistance, thereby minimizing energy consumption.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Speed

If the electric motor delivers maximum power to overcome the weight difference between cab and counterweight, then the transport unit can move from first position to second position, but the energy absorption by the electric motor increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemovement capabilityVSAvoidenergy absorption

Core Design Contradiction:

SpeedVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the counterweight principle by introducing a balancing mechanism with a balancing shaft and balancing mass that counteracts the weight difference between the cab and counterweight. This mechanical balancing system reduces the net force the motor must overcome, thereby significantly reducing energy consumption while maintaining movement capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #8Anti-weight (Counterweight)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the purely electrical motor-driven system with a hybrid system that incorporates mechanical balancing elements (balancing shaft, balancing mass, and transmission means) to handle the weight difference. This substitution of mechanical balancing for electrical power reduces the energy burden on the motor.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Speed

If the electric motor delivers torque to overcome passive resistance (friction and efficiency), then the transport unit can move at constant speed, but the energy absorption increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconstant speed movementVSAvoidenergy absorption

Core Design Contradiction:

SpeedVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The mechanical balancing mechanism continuously counteracts the weight difference, reducing the net force required to overcome passive resistance. This allows the motor to deliver less torque while maintaining constant speed, thereby reducing energy absorption.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #8Anti-weight (Counterweight)

3Speed

If the motor functions as generator for braking rotation during deceleration phase, then the transport unit comes to complete stop, but the energy absorption by the electric motor increases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovedecelerationVSAvoidenergy absorption

Core Design Contradiction:

SpeedVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The balancing mechanism provides continuous counterbalancing force that assists the deceleration process. During braking, the mechanical balance reduces the additional torque the motor must provide, thereby reducing energy absorption during the deceleration phase while achieving complete stop.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #8Anti-weight (Counterweight)

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

This solution achieves a substantial reduction in energy absorption by the electric motor, with potential energy savings of up to 90%, maintaining equilibrium during lift operations and reducing motor power usage in acceleration and deceleration phases.

Implementation Method 1

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectTorque transmission: Torque

Implementation Method 2

The device comprises at least one first rotating member (108) which is to be driven by the electric motor (M) through a connection, which develops a transmission ratio substantially equal to unity

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical advantage: Mechanical Advantage

Data Source

PatentEP2560912B1Device for saving energy during vertical and horizontal motions

Publication Date: 2014.08.06 JEZEK ELISABETTA

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AI summary

The present invention relates to a mechanical device for reducing the energy absorbed by an electric motor of a handling plant. The device according to the invention comprises at least one first rotating member moved by the motor of the handling plant. The device also comprises a second rotating member connected to the first member through first transmission means. At least one third rotating member is connected to the second rotating member through second transmission means, which develop a transmission ratio equal to unity. The device further comprises a fourth rotating member operatively connected to the rotor of the electric motor. The fourth rotating member and the third rotating member are connected through third transmission means, which develop a transmission ratio equal to unity. The device comprises a sixth rotating member connected to a fifth rotating member through fifth transmission means which develop a transmission ratio equal to unity. The sixth rotating member and the first rotating member are connected through sixth transmission means which developed a transmission ratio equal to unity.