Multi-Wedge Elevator Belt Termination for Predictable Load Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional end terminations for elevator systems using flat ropes or belts struggle with achieving smooth and predictable load transfer, often resulting in variable and unpredictable load distribution, posing safety risks and potential damage due to slippage or breakage.
Innovation Solution
A multi-wedge end termination design featuring opposing outer plates, guiding elements, and wedges that deform to adjust clamping force along the belt length, allowing for reversible slippage and customizable load transfer curves through adjustable air gaps and wedge configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single wedge-type end termination is used, then the structure is simple, but the load transfer becomes variable and unpredictable
Solution Approach 1:
The single wedge is divided into multiple wedges (at least two opposing wedges) that are distributed along the belt. Each wedge independently contributes to load transfer, creating multiple load paths that stabilize the overall load transfer behavior and reduce variability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a single-point wedge contact to a distributed multi-wedge arrangement along the belt length. This spatial distribution adds a dimensional aspect to the load transfer mechanism, enabling more uniform and predictable load distribution across the termination point.
2Reliability
If wedges are made deformable to adjust clamping force, then load transfer smoothness improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wedges are designed with deformable properties that allow their shape to change under load. This parameter change (from rigid to deformable) enables the wedges to automatically adjust their clamping force distribution, creating a smoother load transfer curve that adapts to different operating conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The wedge configuration transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic deformable system. The wedges can deform and adjust their position and shape in response to applied loads, enabling adaptive load transfer that smooths out peaks and valleys in the load distribution.
3Reliability
If multiple wedges are distributed along the belt, then load transfer predictability improves, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The termination device is segmented into multiple identical or similar wedge units distributed along the belt. This segmentation allows for standardized manufacturing of individual wedge components, which can then be assembled in a systematic pattern, reducing overall manufacturing complexity despite the increased number of components.
Solution Approach 2:
The multiple wedges are designed to be substantially identical or homogeneous in their basic structure and properties. This homogeneity simplifies manufacturing by allowing mass production of standard wedge units, and simplifies assembly by making the installation process repetitive and systematic rather than requiring custom fabrication of each component.
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 multi-wedge end termination provides a smooth, adjustable, and predictable load transfer, enhancing safety and reducing the risk of damage by allowing controlled slippage and customizable load distribution, effectively addressing the limitations of traditional wedge-type end terminations.
Implementation Method 1
Upon application of a belt pull force to the elevator belt, the wedges are deformed towards one another to increase a clamping force on the elevator belt
Implementation Method 2
The guiding elements may be moved axially in the cavities of the outer plates. The movement of the guiding elements may impart a force on opposing ends of the wedges
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
An end termination (4) for an elevator system (2) including at least two opposing outer plates (14a, 14b) connected to one another, at least two opposing guiding elements (24a, 24b) held between the outer plates, and at least two opposing wedges (32) extending between the guiding elements and configured to clamp an elevator belt (8) therebetween. Upon application of a belt pull force to the elevator belt, the wedges are deformed towards one another to increase a clamping force on the elevator belt.