Telescopic Elevator Foot Guard with Automatic Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing elevator foot guards face challenges in shallow elevator shafts during renovations, as they require a deeper shaft to accommodate the protective device, and existing solutions like telescopic aprons are complex and inefficient in deployment and locking mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing two, three, or four sliding telescopic panels with a pivotally fixed proximal panel and a distal panel, equipped with a multifunctional part having inwardly directed projections for locking and folding, allowing for slow deployment and automatic locking in the active position, and reverse operation for folding, utilizing a compass with pivoting ends and shock absorbers for controlled movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional foot guard is installed in an existing building with a shallow elevator shaft, then the protective function is compromised, but installing a telescopic foot guard increases the complexity of the deployment mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The foot guard is divided into multiple telescopic panels that can extend and retract independently. Each panel is a separate segment that contributes to the overall protective barrier, allowing the system to achieve the required protection height through cumulative extension of individual segments rather than requiring a single complex mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The telescopic panels are nested within each other in a compact configuration when retracted, similar to nested dolls. This nesting arrangement allows the foot guard to occupy minimal space in the shallow shaft when not in use, while still providing full protective extension when deployed, resolving the contradiction between protection height and available space
2Reliability
If the foot guard deploys quickly to provide protection, then safety response time is improved, but shock and instability occur during deployment
Solution Approach 1:
Shock absorbers are pre-installed in the telescopic mechanism to cushion the impact during deployment. These cushioning elements are positioned in advance to absorb the shock when panels extend rapidly, allowing quick deployment while maintaining stability and preventing damage from impact forces
Solution Approach 2:
The deployment mechanism combines rapid extension capability with integrated shock absorption in a single unified system. The telescopic panels and shock absorbers work together as a combined mechanism, merging the functions of quick deployment and impact mitigation into one coordinated system rather than separate operations
3Reliability
If manual locking devices are used to secure the foot guard in position, then the locking function is achieved, but the operation becomes complex and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The telescopic panels incorporate automatic locking mechanisms that engage and disengage without manual intervention. As the panels extend or retract, they self-lock into position through built-in locking features, eliminating the need for operators to manually secure each panel while maintaining reliable positioning throughout the deployment cycle
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is pre-configured to automatically engage at specific extension positions. The geometric arrangement of the telescopic panels and locking features is designed in advance so that locking occurs automatically at the correct moments during deployment, eliminating the need for manual timing or operation of locking devices
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 solution provides a safe, efficient, and space-saving foot guard that can deploy and retract effectively, resisting radial forces and suitable for shallow elevator shafts, with automatic locking and folding mechanisms, enhancing protection during elevator malfunctions and repairs.
Implementation Method 1
a shock absorber installed between the distal panel and the proximal panel... when the footpost comprises only one distal panel. A damper slows down the descent of the telescopic panel (s)
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~7
AI summary
The method involves unlocking an intermediate telescopic panel (14), a proximal panel (9) and a distal panel (8) for pivoting the panels toward a vertical position and opening a lid strut (1). The strut is opened to cause rotation of a multipurpose piece (2) of the strut and a locking projection (6) and release an element of the distal panel for allowing deployment of the distal panel and the telescopic panel. The distal panel is driven downward or toward the telescopic panel. An independent claim is also included for a toe-rail comprising a casing for storage of telescopic panels.