Modular Lift Frame Stabilization for Rapid Concrete Shaft Installation

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Solution Overview

Problem

The conventional method of installing lift systems in tall buildings is slow and site-dependent, occupying valuable space and delaying the availability of the lift for construction access, due to the need for precise alignment of guide rails and doors within the concrete shaft, which is challenging in confined spaces and at height.

Innovation Solution

A modular lift installation method using a frame with stabilisers that attach to the concrete core, allowing for accurate alignment and stabilization, enabling off-site assembly and rapid installation, and accommodating construction tolerances and axial shortening of the core.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If conventional guide rail installation methods are used with adjustable brackets to accommodate concrete shaft tolerances, then alignment precision is achieved, but bracket size increases and valuable shaft space is occupied

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveguide rail alignment precisionVSAvoidshaft space occupied by brackets
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides the guide rail support function into separate modular components: precision adjustment mechanisms are integrated into the bracket assembly itself rather than requiring large external adjustment ranges. The bracket is segmented into fixed mounting portions and adjustable positioning portions, allowing precise alignment while maintaining compact overall dimensions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Manufacturing precision

If conventional progressive installation method is used working up the shaft with access platforms, then guide rails and doors are accurately positioned, but installation time is excessive and lift becomes available late

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveguide rail and door positioning accuracyVSAvoidinstallation time
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

Brackets are pre-assembled with guide rails and door assemblies in controlled factory conditions where precise alignment can be achieved without the constraints of working at height in confined shaft spaces. These pre-assembled units are then lifted into position as complete modules, eliminating the need for progressive on-site assembly and significantly reducing installation time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system combines multiple installation operations into single integrated actions: brackets, guide rails, and door assemblies are pre-combined into unified modules before installation. This merging of components allows simultaneous positioning of multiple elements that would otherwise require separate installation steps, accelerating the overall process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If brackets are made larger to provide 50mm adjustable range for concrete shaft tolerances, then accommodation of tolerances is achieved, but valuable shaft space is consumed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetolerance accommodation rangeVSAvoidshaft space occupied
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The bracket assembly incorporates dynamic adjustment mechanisms that provide the full 50mm adjustment range within a compact footprint. Rather than requiring a statically large bracket to cover the tolerance range, the design uses movable and adjustable components that can traverse the required range while maintaining a small installed profile, thus accommodating tolerances without consuming excessive shaft space.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS12351432B2Modular lift system for building cores
Publication Date: 2025.07.08 LAING O'ROURKE
  • US12351432B2 patent drawing
  • US12351432B2 patent drawing
  • US12351432B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to a method and apparatus for the construction of a lift within a shaft. In a first aspect of the disclosed technology, there is provided a method for installing a modular lift within a shaft, comprising the steps of: inserting a frame of the lift within the shaft, the frame comprising one or more stabilisers; adapting the one or more stabilisers to contact an internal face of the shaft; wherein the frame is held in position by the forces exerted through the stabilisers.