Automated Overspeed Device Testing Apparatus
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for testing, calibrating, and certifying overspeed devices in elevators and hoists are imprecise and undocumented, relying on human reaction and lacking records of individual device performance, which can compromise safety and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a testing apparatus with a motor-controlled test pinion to engage and rotate the brake pinion, coupled with a recording apparatus that detects centrifugal weight displacement and stores data on motor speed, allowing for automated and precise determination of activation speed and maintenance records.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If automated motor-controlled testing is implemented, then measurement precision and reliability improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical testing with an automated motor-controlled system. The motor (315) drives the test shaft (310) and test pinion (305) through electronic control, substituting human operation with automated mechanical-electrical integration. This improves measurement precision while the modular design keeps complexity manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a detector (355) as an intermediary device that automatically senses when the centrifugal weight (109) displaces and triggers data recording. This intermediary component enables precise automated measurement without requiring complex direct control mechanisms between the motor and recording system.
2Loss of information
If automated testing with data recording is implemented, then loss of information is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual documentation with automated electronic data recording. The system automatically captures motor speed data and activation events, storing them in memory (365) without human intervention. This eliminates information loss from manual recording errors while using straightforward electronic storage rather than complex information management systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The testing system performs self-documentation by automatically recording its own operational data. The detector (355) and memory (365) work together to autonomously capture and preserve performance information, making the system self-sufficient for documentation purposes without requiring additional complex external recording infrastructure.
3Measurement precision
If precise automated detection is used, then measurement precision improves, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The detector (355) performs automatic detection of centrifugal weight displacement without requiring operator intervention. The system self-monitors its own operational parameters and automatically triggers data recording when activation occurs. This maintains high measurement precision while actually improving ease of operation by eliminating the need for operators to manually observe and record activation points.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements automatic feedback through the detector (355) that continuously monitors the position of the centrifugal weight (109) and immediately signals when displacement occurs. This real-time feedback mechanism automates the detection process, maintaining precision while removing the manual observation burden from operators.
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
Enables precise and automated testing, calibration, and certification of overspeed devices, improving safety and efficiency by eliminating human error and providing comprehensive records for maintenance and compliance.
Implementation Method 1
When the hoist car exceeds a predetermined speed, the overspeed 101 is activated to brake the hoist car. The overspeed 101 is activated when the revolutions per minute of the brake pinion 102 cause the brake shaft 103 and centrifugal mechanism 106 to rotate with enough centrifugal force that the tension spring 110 is unable to counteract the centrifugal force on the centrifugal weight 109
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure describes apparatuses, methods and systems for determining the speed at which an elevator or hoist overspeed device is activated, and for calibrating and certifying overspeed devices. A testing apparatus may comprise a test pinion which engages with the brake pinion of an overspeed; a test shaft coupled to the test pinion; a motor for rotating the test shaft; a controller for operating the motor; and a mounting bracket for holding the overspeed device in place. A recording apparatus may comprise a detector configured to detect when the rotation of the test pinion has caused the centrifugal weight of the overspeed to be displaced, and to determine the speed of the motor at that time; a memory for storing information relating to the motor; and a processor configured to perform calculations relating to the operation and speed of the motor.