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Title:
VERTICAL TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM OPERATED BY HYDRAULIC LINEAR ACTUATOR ARRANGEMENT
Document Type and Number:
WIPO Patent Application WO/2019/226084
Kind Code:
A1
Abstract:
The present invention concerns a vertical transportation system (1) comprising a first rope drive arrangement (3') releasable coupled to a first elevator cage (5') and coupled to a first hydraulic infinite linear actuator (7') for moving the first elevator cage (5') along a first pathway (9'); a second rope drive arrangement (3'') releasable coupled to a second elevator cage (5'') and coupled to a second hydraulic infinite linear actuator (7'') for moving the second elevator cage (5'') along a second pathway (9''). The present invention also concerns a method for moving a plurality of first, second, third, fourth elevator cages (5', 5'', 5''', 5'''') of a vertical transportation system (1).

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Inventors:
LANDBERG MAGNUS (SE)
Application Number:
PCT/SE2018/050518
Publication Date:
November 28, 2019
Filing Date:
May 22, 2018
Export Citation:
Click for automatic bibliography generation   Help
Assignee:
SAAB AB (SE)
International Classes:
B66B9/00; B66B7/08; B66B11/04
Domestic Patent References:
WO2017127001A12017-07-27
WO2017171597A12017-10-05
Foreign References:
US20160152446A12016-06-02
US20170146034A12017-05-25
EP0254840A21988-02-03
DE4413165A11995-10-19
JP2002080183A2002-03-19
JPH05105372A1993-04-27
JPH0977418A1997-03-25
US5857545A1999-01-12
US5924524A1999-07-20
Attorney, Agent or Firm:
ZACCO SWEDEN AB (SE)
Download PDF:
Claims:
CLAIMS

1. A vertical transportation system (1) comprising:

-a first rope drive arrangement (3') releasable coupled to a first elevator cage (5') and coupled to a first hydraulic infinite linear actuator (7') for moving the first elevator cage (5') along a first pathway (9');

-a second rope drive arrangement (3”) releasable coupled to a second elevator cage (5”) and coupled to a second hydraulic infinite linear actuator (7") for moving the second elevator cage (5”) along a second pathway (9").

2. The system (1) according to claim 1, wherein the first hydraulic infinite linear actuator (7') is configured to move the first elevator cage (5') in a direction upward from a lower floor (LF) to an upper floor (UF), and the second hydraulic infinite linear actuator (7") is configured to move the second elevator cage (5") in a direction downward from the upper floor (UF) to the lower floor (LF).

3. The system (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein a first rope coupling part (11') of the first rope drive arrangement (3') is configured to be releasable coupled to a first elevator cage coupling part (13') of the first elevator cage (5').

4. The system (1) according to any of claim 1 to 3, wherein a second rope coupling part (11") of the second rope drive arrangement (3") is configured to be releasable coupled to a second elevator cage coupling part (13") of the second elevator cage (5").

5. The system (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the system (1) further comprises;

-a third rope drive arrangement (3'") releasable coupled to a third elevator cage (5'") and coupled to a third hydraulic infinite linear actuator (7'");

-a fourth rope drive arrangement (3"") releasable coupled to a fourth elevator cage (5"") and coupled to a fourth hydraulic infinite linear actuator (7"");

-the third elevator cage (5'") is configured to be moved vertically in series with the first elevator cage (5') along the first pathway (9'); -the fourth elevator cage (5'”') is configured to be moved vertically in series with the second elevator cage (5'') along the second pathway (9'').

6. The system (1) according to claim 5, wherein the third hydraulic infinite linear

actuator (7"') is configured to drive the third elevator cage (5'”) in a direction upward from a lower floor (LF) to an intermediate floor, and the fourth hydraulic infinite linear actuator (7'"') is configured to drive the third elevator cage (5'”) in a direction downward from the intermediate floor to the lower floor (LF) after that the third elevator cage (5'”) has been released from the third rope drive arrangement (3"') and moved in a horizontal direction from the first pathway (9') to the second pathway (9”) and coupled to the fourth rope drive arrangement (3”'').

7. The system (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the respective

hydraulic infinite linear actuator (7', 7”) is coupled to a common hydraulic fluid supply unit (15) comprising a common electrical motor coupled to a common hydraulic fluid pump connected to a common hydraulic fluid reservoir.

8. The system (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein

-the first hydraulic infinite linear actuator (7') comprises:

-a first piston (23') slidingly arranged in a first cylinder, the first piston (23') having a first engagement and disengagement device configured to clamp around a first piston rod (21');

-a second piston (23'') slidingly arranged in a second cylinder, the second piston (23'') having a second engagement and disengagement device configured to clamp around the first piston rod (21');

-the first piston rod (21') is coupled to the first rope drive arrangement (3') and partly or entirely features a counterweight mass being configured to balance the first elevator cage (5');

-the second hydraulic infinite linear actuator (7") comprises: -a third piston (23'”) slidingly arranged in a third cylinder, the third piston (23'”) having a third engagement and disengagement device configured to clamp around a second piston rod (21”);

-a fourth piston (23””) slidingly arranged in a fourth cylinder, the fourth piston (23””) having a fourth engagement and disengagement device configured to clamp around the second piston rod (21”);

-the second piston rod (21”) is coupled to the second rope drive arrangement (3”) and partly or entirely features a second counterweight mass being configured to balance the second elevator cage (5”).

9. The system (1) according to any of claims 5 to 8, wherein

-the third hydraulic infinite linear actuator (7"') comprises:

a fifth piston slidingly arranged in a fifth cylinder, the fifth piston having a fifth engagement and disengagement device configured to clamp around a third piston rod (21’”);

-a sixth piston slidingly arranged in a sixth cylinder, the sixth piston having a sixth engagement and disengagement device configured to clamp around the third piston rod (21”’);

-the fourth hydraulic infinite linear actuator (7””) comprises:

-a seventh piston slidingly arranged in a seventh cylinder, the seventh piston having a seventh engagement and disengagement device configured to clamp around a fourth piston rod (21””);

-an eight piston slidingly arranged in an eight cylinder, the eight piston having an eight engagement and disengagement device configured to clamp around the fourth piston rod (21””);

-the third piston rod (21'") is releasable coupled to the third rope drive arrangement (3'”) and partly or entirely features a third counterweight mass being configured to balance the third elevator cage (5'”);

-the fourth piston rod (21"") is releasable coupled to the fourth rope drive arrangement (3'”') and partly or entirely features a fourth counterweight mass being configured to balance the fourth elevator cage (5'''').

10. The system (1) according to any of claims 5 to 9, wherein the system (1) comprises a plurality of first, second, third, fourth elevator cages (5', 5”, S'" , 5"") that are configured to be moved by the system (1) in a direction upward in series along the first pathway (9') and that are configured to be moved by the system (1) in a direction downward in series along the second pathway (9”), which elevator cages (5', 5”, S'", S"") are configured to be moved in a horizontal direction between the first pathway (9') and the second pathway (9”).

11. The system (1) according to any of claims 5 to 10, wherein the system (1) comprises a plurality of elevator cages (5', S" , S'", S"") configured to be releasable coupled to a respective rope drive arrangement (3', S", S’", S’’’’).

12. A method for moving a plurality of first, second, third, fourth elevator cages (5', S" , S'", S"") of a vertical transportation system (1) according to any of claims 1-10, the method comprises the steps of:

-moving the first elevator cage (5') upward along the first pathway (9') to an upper floor (UF);

-moving the second elevator cage (5”) downward along the second pathway (9”) to a lower floor (LF);

-moving the third elevator cage (5'”) upward along the first pathway (9') to an intermediate floor; and

-moving the fourth elevator cage (5”'') downward along the second pathway (9”).

13. The method according to claim 12, the method comprises the steps of:

-releasing a first rope coupling part (11') from the first elevator cage (5');

-moving the first elevator cage (5') from the first pathway (9') to the second pathway (9''); and

-moving the first rope coupling part (11') downward along the first pathway (9') to the lower floor (LF).

14. The method according to claim 12 or 13, the method comprises the steps of: -releasing a second rope coupling part (11”) from the second elevator cage (5”); -moving the second elevator cage (5”) from the second pathway (9”) to the first pathway (9'); and

-moving the second rope coupling part (11”) upward along the second pathway (9”) to the upper floor (UF).

15. The method according to claim 14, the method comprises the steps of:

-moving the first elevator cage (5') to the second pathway (9”);

-coupling the second rope coupling part (11”) to the first elevator cage (5') for moving the first elevator cage (5') downward along the second pathway (9”).

16. The method according to any of claims 12 to 15, the method comprises the steps of:

-releasing the third elevator cage (5'”) from the third rope drive arrangement (3'”) and moving the third elevator cage (5'”) from the first pathway (9') to the second pathway (9”) and coupling a previously released fourth rope coupling part (11””) to the third elevator cage (5'”) for moving the third elevator cage (5'”) downward along the second pathway (9”).

Description:
Vertical transportation system operated by hydraulic linear actuator arrangement

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a vertical transportation system that may be configured to be arranged in a multi-storey building for transportation of people between different floors of the multi-storey building.

The present invention relates to a vertical transportation system that may be configured to be arranged in an automated high-bay storage system.

The present invention concerns the industry using hydraulic actuators for counterweighted roped hydraulic lifting system in different applications and also concerns the manufacture industry producing such systems for mounting in multi-storey buildings, e.g. the construction industry or various elevator providers. The invention is not limited thereto, but may be used for replacing current electrical motor arrangements or current hydraulic systems.

The present invention concerns the vertical transportation system configured for moving a plurality of elevator cages in vertical direction, which transportation system is arranged in a multi-storey building.

BACKGROUND

Multi-storey buildings of today are built with high space efficiency. The space efficiency in turn will optimize the size of the multi-storey building's rentable area or effective area.

Current vertical transportation systems in multi-storey buildings are bulky and occupy the effective area of the multi-storey building and use a large amount of energy to move elevator cages in multi-store buildings.

Current vertical transportation systems also involve high costs for installation and are labour intensive in construction and for maintenance service. In order to overcome the problems regarding optimizing the effective area in multi-storey buildings comprising vertical transportation systems there has been suggested several solutions over time.

A known way to increase the effective area of the multi-storey building is to position the elevator cages of prior art vertical transportation systems outside the facade of the multi storey building. However, such solution may involve high costs and structural complexity.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

There is an object to provide a vertical transportation system that promotes a minimum area occupied by elevator cages and other equipments used in the vertical transportation system.

There is an object to increase the effective area of the multi-storey building.

An object is to make use of at least a first and a second cooperating cylinder, the first cylinder comprising a first piston, the second cylinder comprising a second piston, the pistons are coupled to a common piston rod, wherein by controlling alternate pressurization of a respective chamber for moving the pistons bodies in an alternating and reciprocating way and by alternately controlling the clamping of the respective first and second piston body to the piston rod for propelling the common piston rod, which in turn is coupled to a wire of the elevator cage.

There is also an object to provide a vertical transportation system of the type defined in the introduction which is environmental friendly.

A yet further object is to provide a vertical transportation system that is easy to handle and that involves cost-effective maintenance in service.

There is an object to optimize the percentage proportion of a multi-storey building's rentable area. An object of the present disclosure is to provide a vertical transportation system that seeks to mitigate, alleviate, or eliminate one or more of the above-identified deficiencies or other deficiencies in the art and disadvantages singly or in any combination. This or at least one of said objects has been achieved by a vertical transportation system comprising a first rope drive arrangement releasable coupled to a first elevator cage and coupled to a first hydraulic infinite linear actuator for moving the first elevator cage along a first pathway; a second rope drive arrangement releasable coupled to a second elevator cage and coupled to a second hydraulic infinite linear actuator for moving the second elevator cage along a second pathway.

Alternatively, a common hydraulic fluid supply unit may be coupled to the first hydraulic infinite linear actuator and to the second hydraulic infinite linear actuator.

Alternatively, the first hydraulic infinite linear actuator may be coupled to a separate hydraulic fluid supply unit.

In such a way is achieved a space saving vertical transportation system adapted to be used in multi-store buildings.

In such way is achieved that a plurality of elevator cages can be used in a multi-store building for transportation between the floors of the multi-store building in an energy-saving manner. Alternatively, the first hydraulic infinite linear actuator is configured to move the first elevator cage in a direction upward from a lower floor to an upper floor, and the second hydraulic infinite linear actuator is configured to move the second elevator cage in a direction downward from the upper floor to the lower floor.

Alternatively, a first rope coupling part of the first rope drive arrangement is configured to be releasable coupled to a first elevator cage coupling part of the first elevator cage.

Alternatively, a second rope coupling part of the second rope drive arrangement is configured to be releasable coupled to a second elevator cage coupling part of the second elevator cage.

Alternatively, the system further comprises a third rope drive arrangement releasable coupled to a third elevator cage and coupled to a third hydraulic infinite linear actuator; a fourth rope drive arrangement releasable coupled to a fourth elevator cage and coupled to a fourth hydraulic infinite linear actuator; the third elevator cage is configured to be moved vertically in series with the first elevator cage along the first pathway; the fourth elevator cage is configured to be moved vertically in series with the second elevator cage along the second pathway; and the common hydraulic fluid supply unit is coupled to the third and fourth hydraulic infinite linear actuator. Alternatively, the third hydraulic infinite linear actuator is configured to drive the third elevator cage in a direction upward from a lower floor to an intermediate floor, and the fourth hydraulic infinite linear actuator is configured to drive the third elevator cage in a direction downward from the intermediate floor to the lower floor after that the third elevator cage has been released from the third rope drive arrangement and moved in a horizontal direction from the first pathway to the second pathway and coupled to the fourth rope drive arrangement.

In such way there has been achieved a cost-effective vertical transportation system for operation and maintenance service.

Alternatively, the common hydraulic fluid supply unit comprises a common electrical motor coupled to a common hydraulic fluid pump connected to a common hydraulic fluid reservoir.

In such way is achieved a less bulky hydraulic fluid reservoir of the fluid supply unit as the cylinder chambers of an hydraulic infinite linear actuator are of less volume than that of today used hydraulic cylinders in elevator systems and require less pressurized hydraulic fluid for moving the pistons of the hydraulic infinite linear actuators. Alternatively, the first hydraulic infinite linear actuator comprises a first piston slidingly arranged in a first cylinder, the first piston having a first engagement and disengagement device configured to clamp around a first piston rod; a second piston slidingly arranged in a second cylinder, the second piston having a second engagement and disengagement device configured to clamp around the first piston rod; the first piston rod is coupled to the first rope drive arrangement; the first piston rod partly or entirely features a counterweight mass being configured to balance the first elevator cage; the second hydraulic infinite linear actuator comprises: a third piston slidingly arranged in a third cylinder, the third piston having a third engagement and disengagement device configured to clamp around a second piston rod; a fourth piston slidingly arranged in a fourth cylinder, the fourth piston having a fourth engagement and disengagement device configured to clamp around the second piston rod; the first piston rod is coupled to the first rope drive arrangement and partly or entirely features a first counterweight mass being configured to balance the first elevator cage; the second piston rod is coupled to the second rope drive arrangement and partly or entirely features a second counterweight mass being configured to balance the second elevator cage.

Alternatively, the third hydraulic infinite linear actuator comprises a fifth piston slidingly arranged in a fifth cylinder, the fifth piston having a fifth engagement and disengagement device configured to clamp around a third piston rod; a sixth piston slidingly arranged in a sixth cylinder, the sixth piston having a sixth engagement and disengagement device configured to clamp around a fourth piston rod; the fourth hydraulic infinite linear actuator comprises a seventh piston slidingly arranged in a seventh cylinder, the seventh piston having a seventh engagement and disengagement device configured to clamp around a fourth piston rod; an eight piston slidingly arranged in an eight cylinder, the eight piston having an eight engagement and disengagement device configured to clamp around the fourth piston rod; the third piston rod is releasable coupled to the third rope drive arrangement and partly or entirely features a third counterweight mass being configured to balance the third elevator cage; the fourth piston rod is releasable coupled to the fourth rope drive arrangement and partly or entirely features a fourth counterweight mass being configured to balance the fourth elevator cage.

Alternatively, the system comprises a plurality of first, second, third, fourth elevator cages that are configured to be moved by the system in a direction upward in series along the first pathway and that are configured to be moved by the system in a direction downward in series along the second pathway, which elevator cages are configured to be moved in a horizontal direction between the first pathway and the second pathway.

Alternatively, the first piston divides the first cylinder in a first and second cylinder chamber.

Alternatively, the second piston divides the second cylinder in a third and fourth cylinder chamber.

Alternatively, the third piston divides the third cylinder in a fifth and sixth cylinder chamber. Alternatively, the fourth piston divides the fourth cylinder in a seventh and eight cylinder chamber.

Alternatively, the common hydraulic fluid supply unit is coupled to a first logic valve (of the first hydraulic infinite actuator) coupled to and configured to alternately pressurize the first and second cylinder chamber.

Alternatively, the common hydraulic fluid supply unit is coupled to a second logic valve (of the first hydraulic infinite actuator) coupled to and configured to alternately pressurize the third and fourth cylinder chamber.

Alternatively, the common hydraulic fluid supply unit is coupled to a third logic valve (of the second hydraulic infinite actuator) coupled to and configured to alternately pressurize the fifth and sixth cylinder chamber.

Alternatively, the common hydraulic fluid supply unit is coupled to a fourth logic valve (of the second hydraulic infinite actuator) coupled to and configured to alternately pressurize the seventh and eight cylinder chamber. Alternatively, the system further comprises a third hydraulic infinite linear actuator comprising a fifth piston slidingly arranged in a fifth cylinder, the fifth piston having a fifth engagement and disengagement device configured to clamp around a third piston rod and the third hydraulic linear actuator comprising a sixth piston slidingly arranged in a sixth cylinder, the sixth piston having a sixth engagement and disengagement device configured to clamp around the third piston rod.

Alternatively, the third piston rod is coupled to a third rope drive arrangement, wherein the third piston rod partly or entirely features a counterweight mass being configured to balance a third elevator cage.

Alternatively, the system further comprises a fourth hydraulic infinite linear actuator comprising a seventh piston slidingly arranged in a seventh cylinder, the seventh piston having a seventh engagement and disengagement device configured to clamp around a fourth piston rod and the fourth hydraulic linear actuator comprising an eight piston slidingly arranged in an eight cylinder, the eight piston having an eight engagement and disengagement device configured to clamp around the fourth piston rod.

Alternatively, the fourth piston rod is coupled to a fourth rope drive arrangement, wherein the fourth piston rod partly or entirely features a counterweight mass being configured to balance a fourth elevator cage.

Alternatively, a third upper end of the third piston rod comprises a third coupling member configured to be coupled to a third rope of the third rope drive arrangement.

Alternatively, a fourth upper end of the fourth piston rod comprises a fourth coupling member configured to be coupled to a fourth rope of the fourth rope drive arrangement. Alternatively, the fifth piston divides the fifth cylinder in a ninth and tenth cylinder chamber.

Alternatively, the sixth piston divides the sixth cylinder in a eleventh and twelfth cylinder chamber.

Alternatively, the seventh piston divides the seventh cylinder in a thirteenth and fourteenth cylinder chamber. Alternatively, the eight piston divides the eight cylinder in a fifteenth and sixteenth cylinder chamber.

Alternatively, the common hydraulic fluid supply unit is coupled to a fifth logic valve (of the third hydraulic infinite actuator) coupled to and configured to alternately pressurize the ninth and tenth cylinder chamber. Alternatively, the common hydraulic fluid supply unit is coupled to a sixth logic valve (of the third hydraulic infinite actuator) coupled to and configured to alternately pressurize the eleventh and twelfth cylinder chamber.

Alternatively, the common hydraulic fluid supply unit is coupled to a seventh logic valve (of the fourth hydraulic infinite actuator) coupled to and configured to alternately pressurize the thirteenth and fourteenth cylinder chamber. Alternatively, the common hydraulic fluid supply unit is coupled to an eight logic valve (of the fourth hydraulic infinite actuator) coupled to and configured to alternately pressurize the fifteenth and sixteenth cylinder chamber.

Alternatively, at least two (or a number corresponding with the number of elevator cages or number of rope drive arrangements arranged for operation of the elevator cages in the common elevator shaft) hydraulic infinite linear actuators (the first, the second etc.) are arranged adjacent each other in the common elevator shaft or arranged adjacent the common elevator shaft.

Alternatively, the common hydraulic fluid supply unit is arranged in the common elevator shaft or arranged adjacent the common elevator shaft or at a distance therefrom.

In such way service personnel will have easy access to the hydraulic infinite linear actuators and associated logic valves and space is saved in the multi-store building.

Alternatively, the first, the second, the third and the fourth logic valve are coupled to the common hydraulic fluid supply unit. Alternatively, the fifth, the sixth, the seventh and the eighth logic valve are coupled to the common hydraulic fluid supply unit.

Alternatively, the first engagement and disengagement device is coupled to a first on/off control valve or other first valve configured to pressurize a first clamping membrane of the first engagement and disengagement device. Alternatively, the second engagement and disengagement device is coupled to a second on/off control valve or other second valve configured to pressurize a second clamping membrane of the second engagement and disengagement device.

Alternatively, the third engagement and disengagement device is coupled to a third on/off control valve or other third valve configured to pressurize a third clamping membrane of the third engagement and disengagement device. Alternatively, the fourth engagement and disengagement device is coupled to a fourth on/off control valve or other fourth valve configured to pressurize a fourth clamping membrane of the fourth engagement and disengagement device.

Alternatively, the fifth engagement and disengagement device is coupled to a fifth on/off control valve or other fifth valve configured to pressurize a fifth clamping membrane of the fifth engagement and disengagement device.

Alternatively, the sixth engagement and disengagement device is coupled to a sixth on/off control valve or other sixth valve configured to pressurize a sixth clamping membrane of the sixth engagement and disengagement device. Alternatively, the seventh engagement and disengagement device is coupled to a seventh on/off control valve or other seventh valve configured to pressurize a seventh clamping membrane of the seventh engagement and disengagement device.

Alternatively, the eight engagement and disengagement device is coupled to an eight on/off control valve or other eight valve configured to pressurize an eight clamping membrane of the eight engagement and disengagement device.

Alternatively, the first, the second, the third, the fourth and/or the fifth, the sixth, the seventh, the eight on/off valve are coupled to the common hydraulic fluid supply unit.

Alternatively, the vertical transportation system comprises a control unit configured to control the first, the second, the third, the fourth and/or the fifth, the sixth, the seventh, the eight on/off valve and configured to control the first, the second, the third and the fourth logic valve and/or the fifth, the sixth, the seventh and the eighth logic valve.

In such way is achieved a vertical transportation system, which is cost-effective to mount by the use of a minor number of valve members and a compact valve arrangement that may present a non-complex valve package with standard components. In such way the vertical linear movement of the respective piston rod (first, second etc.) can be used for a counterweight feature, which may imply dual use in moving the rope in linear vertical motion and at the same time use the respective piston rod (first, second etc.) as a counterweight being attracted by gravity in linear vertical orientation.

Alternatively, a lower end of the respective piston rod (first, second etc.) comprises a respective counterweight coupling member configured to be able to be coupled to an additional counterweight.

In such way is achieved that service personal cost-effective can adjust the piston rod weight to the actual mass of the lifting member.

In such a way is achieved a space saving vertical transportation system adapted to be used in multi-store buildings. Alternatively, the respective rope drive arrangement (first, second etc.) comprises a rope guide pulley arrangement (first, second etc.) guiding the respective rope (first, second etc.) being configured as high-geared arrangement.

Alternatively, by a method, the first piston rod is moved a first distance by controlling the first logic valve to pressurize the first cylinder chamber and by controlling the first on/off control valve to pressurize the first clamping membrane for clamping the first piston to the first piston rod, thereby moving the first piston rod by means of the first piston, whereas the second piston is disengaged from the first piston rod.

Alternatively, by a method, the first piston rod is moved a second distance by controlling the second logic valve to pressurize the third cylinder chamber and by controlling the second on/off control valve to pressurize the second clamping membrane for clamping the second piston to the first piston rod; thereby moving the first piston rod by means of the second piston, whereas the first piston is disengaged from the first piston rod.

Alternatively, by a method, the second piston rod is moved a third distance by controlling the third logic valve to pressurize the fifth cylinder chamber and by controlling the third on/off control valve to pressurize the third clamping membrane for clamping the third piston to the second piston rod, thereby moving the second piston rod by means of the third piston, whereas the fourth piston is disengaged from the second piston rod. Alternatively, by a method, the second piston rod is moved a fourth distance by controlling the fourth logic valve to pressurize the seventh cylinder chamber and by controlling the fourth on/off control valve to pressurize the fourth clamping membrane for clamping the fourth piston to the second piston rod; thereby moving the second piston rod by means of the fourth piston, whereas the third piston is disengaged from the second piston rod.

Alternatively, the control unit controls the respective logic valve (first, second, third, fourth etc.) to pressurize the respective cylinder chamber (first, second, third, fourth etc.) and controls the respective on/off control valve to pressurize the respective clamping membrane (first, second, third, fourth etc.) in regard to detected motion and/or force/load features, which are detected by sensor members coupled to and detecting the motion of the respective piston (first, second, third, fourth etc.).

In such way is achieved an optimal and secure functionality providing accurate performance of the elevator cages in the common elevator shaft.

The speed and force of the first piston rod relative the first and second cylinder can thus be controlled in an efficient way by varying the pressure of the pressurized fluid in discrete steps controlled by the control unit.

This or at least one of said objects has been achieved by a method for moving a plurality of first, second, third, fourth elevator cages of a vertical transportation system according to any of the system claims, the method comprises the steps of moving the first elevator cage upward along the first pathway to an upper floor; moving the second elevator cage downward along the second pathway to a lower floor; moving the third elevator cage upward along the first pathway to an intermediate floor; and moving the fourth elevator cage downward along the second pathway. Alternatively, the method comprises the steps of releasing a first rope coupling part from the first elevator cage; moving the first elevator cage from the first pathway to the second first pathway; and moving the first rope coupling part downward along the first pathway to the lower floor. Alternatively, the method comprises the steps of releasing a second rope coupling part from the second elevator cage; moving the second elevator cage from the second pathway to the first pathway; and moving the second rope coupling part upward along the second pathway to the upper floor.

Alternatively, the method comprises the steps of moving the first elevator cage to the second pathway; coupling the second rope coupling part to the first elevator cage for moving the first elevator cage downward along the second pathway. Alternatively, the method comprises the steps of releasing the third elevator cage from the third first rope drive arrangement and moving the third elevator cage from the first pathway to the second pathway and coupling a previously released fourth rope coupling part to the third elevator cage for moving the third elevator cage downward along the second pathway.

The elevator cages arranged in the first pathway or common elevator shaft are thus positioned in series and above each other (in tandem). In such way space is saved in a multi-storey building and effective logistic is achieved for transportation of passengers in a multi-storey building.

The vertical transportation systems provides high transport capacity and requires relatively low peak power.

The vertical transportation systems uses compact hydraulic supply and directional valves and may use a compact electric rotary motor that also may be configured to operate as a generator.

Alternatively, the system comprises a plurality of elevator cages configured to be releasable coupled to a respective rope drive arrangement.

The hydraulic infinite linear actuators exhibits compact and small chamber volumes which will save space and which require little energy to pressurize. The vertical transportation system may be used for personal transportation and/or goods. It may be configured to be used in a vertical personal transportation system or in an automated high-bay storage system.

The definition of the expression "hydraulic infinite linear actuator" may mean an actuator described herein comprising a first and a second cylinder each comprising a respective piston that is configured to clamp on a common piston rod by means of a respective clamping membrane, which membranes are configured to alternately clamp around the piston rod depending on the respective working stroke each piston performs for moving the common piston rod. The word "infinite" may be deleted from the expression. The expression "hydraulic infinite linear actuator" may be replaced by the expression

"hydraulic linear actuator configured for alternately clamping around a common piston rod coupled to a rope drive arrangement".

Of course, an elevator shaft or common pathway may comprise any number of elevator cages arranged in vertically order and in line above each other. The definition of the expression "pathway" may include the wording "elevator shaft" or other way or path, along which the elevator cages move.

The expression "upward" may be replaced by the expression "downward" and the expression "downward" may be replaced by the expression "upward".

The vertical transportation system may be comprised in a multi storey building or may be comprised in a store house or other store site.

Alternatively, the respective rope drive arrangement is coupled to the respective piston rod.

The expression "rope" may be replaced by the expression "wire" or "cable".

The expression "guide rail" may be replaced by "elongated guide member" configured to guide the elevator cage along the pathway. The pathway may comprise at least one elongated guide member configured to guide the respective elevator cage along the pathway.

Alternatively, the number of elevator cages configured to be moved along the pathway may be more than three.

The respective rope guide pulley arrangement may comprise a pulley gear system configured with any suitable number of pulley wheels for achieving desired speed ratio of the rope coupling part and the elevator cage versus the speed rate of the piston rod.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will now be described by way of examples with references to the accompanying schematic drawings, of which:

Fig. 1 illustrates a vertical transportation system according to a first example;

Figs. 2a and 2b illustrate a vertical transportation system according to a second example;

Fig. 3 illustrates a vertical transportation system according to a third example; Figs. 4a-4b illustrate a vertical transportation system according to a fourth example;

Fig. 5 illustrates a vertical transportation system according to a fifth example;

Fig. 6 illustrates a vertical transportation system according to a sixth example; and

Figs. 7a-7c illustrate exemplary methods for moving a plurality of elevator cages of a vertical transportation system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Hereinafter, examples of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein for the sake of clarity and understanding of the invention some details of no importance may be deleted from the drawings. Fig. 1 illustrates a vertical transportation system 1 according to a first example. The vertical transportation system 1 comprises a first rope drive arrangement 3' releasable coupled to a first elevator cage 5'. The first rope drive arrangement 3' is further coupled to a first hydraulic infinite linear actuator 7' (the operation of which is described further below) for moving the first elevator cage 5' along a first pathway 9'. A second rope drive arrangement 3' is releasable coupled to a second elevator cage 5” and coupled to a second hydraulic infinite linear actuator 7" (the operation of which is described further below) for moving the second elevator cage 5” along a second pathway 9". The vertical transportation system 1 comprises a common hydraulic fluid supply unit 15, which is coupled to and pressurize the first hydraulic infinite linear actuator 7' and to the second hydraulic infinite linear actuator 7" with hydraulic fluid for moving the first and second elevator cages 5', 5”. The common hydraulic fluid supply unit may comprise an electrical motor coupled to a hydraulic fluid pump connected to a hydraulic fluid reservoir.

The first hydraulic infinite linear actuator 7' is configured to move the first elevator cage 5' in a direction upward from a lower floor LF to an upper floor UF. The second hydraulic infinite linear actuator 7' is configured to move the second elevator cage 5” in a direction downward from the upper floor UF to the lower floor LF.

A first rope coupling part 11' of the first rope drive arrangement 3' is configured to be releasable coupled to a first elevator cage coupling part 13' of the first elevator cage 5'. A second rope coupling part 11" of the second rope drive arrangement 3" is configured to be releasable coupled to a second elevator cage coupling part 13" of the second elevator cage 5". Guide rails 18 are arranged along the first and second pathway 9', 9", which guide rails 18 may run at both sides of the first and second elevator cage 5', 5” for guiding the respective elevator cage.

Figs. 2a and 2b illustrate a vertical transportation system 1 according to a second example. Fig. 2a illustrates a first pathway 9' (or common elevator shaft) of the vertical transportation system 1 in a first view from one side. Fig. 2b illustrates the first pathway 9' in a second view from the other side.

The vertical transportation system 1 comprises in one common elevator shaft 10 at least four moveable and releasable elevator cages (only a first 5' and second 5” elevator cage being coupled to a respective first and second rope drive arrangement 3', 3”. A third rope drive arrangement 3” may be releasable coupled to a third elevator cage (not shown) and coupled to a third hydraulic infinite linear actuator 7'". A fourth rope drive arrangement

3 may be releasable coupled to a fourth elevator cage (not shown) and coupled to a fourth hydraulic infinite linear actuator 7"". The first 5', the second 5”, the third and the fourth elevator cage are configured to be moved vertically in series along the first pathway 9'.

A common hydraulic fluid supply unit 15 is coupled to the first7', the second 7", the third 7'" and the fourth 7"" hydraulic infinite linear actuator. The common hydraulic fluid supply unit may comprise an electrical motor coupled to a hydraulic fluid pump connected to a hydraulic fluid reservoir.

A first rope coupling part 11' of the first rope drive arrangement 3' is configured to be releasable coupled to a first elevator cage coupling part 13' of the first elevator cage 5'. A second rope coupling part 11" of the second rope drive arrangement 3" is configured to be releasable coupled to a second elevator cage coupling part 13" of the second elevator cage 5". A third rope coupling part 11'" of the third rope drive arrangement 3'" is configured to be releasable coupled to a third elevator cage coupling part 13'" of the third elevator cage 5'". A fourth rope coupling part 11"" of the fourth rope drive arrangement 3"" is configured to be releasable coupled to a fourth elevator cage coupling part 13"" of the fourth elevator cage Fig. 3 illustrates a vertical transportation system 1 according to a third example. The vertical transportation system 1 comprises a first rope drive arrangement 3' releasable coupled to a first elevator cage 5' and coupled to a first hydraulic infinite linear actuator 7' for moving the first elevator cage 5' along a first pathway 9'. The vertical transportation system 1 comprises a second rope drive arrangement 3” releasable coupled to a second elevator cage 5” and coupled to a second hydraulic infinite linear actuator 7" for moving the second elevator cage 5” along a second pathway 9".

The vertical transportation system 1 comprises a third rope drive arrangement 3"' releasable coupled to a third elevator cage S'” and coupled to a third hydraulic infinite linear actuator (not shown as being hidden behind the first hydraulic infinite linear actuator 7') for moving the third elevator cage S'” along the first pathway 9'.

The vertical transportation system 1 comprises a fourth rope drive arrangement 3”” releasable coupled to a fourth elevator cage 5”” and coupled to a fourth hydraulic infinite linear actuator (not shown as being hidden behind the second hydraulic infinite linear actuator 7") for moving the fourth elevator cage 5”” along the second pathway 9”.

The vertical transportation system 1 is configured to release the third elevator cage 5’” from the third rope drive arrangement 3’” by releasing an elevator cage coupling part 13 of the third elevator cage 5’” from a rope coupling part 11 of the third rope drive arrangement 3’”. The released third elevator cage 5’” is configured to be moved horizontally from the first pathway 9' to the second pathway 9”. The third elevator cage 5’” is configured to be coupled to a free (a fourth) rope coupling part 11. of a fourth rope drive arrangement 3”” as the fourth elevator cage 5”” has been released and parked at a lower floor LF. A common hydraulic fluid supply unit (not shown) is coupled to the first 7', the second 7", the third and the fourth hydraulic infinite linear actuators. The first hydraulic infinite linear actuator 7' is configured to move the first elevator cage 5' in a direction upward from the lower floor LF to an upper floor UF. The second hydraulic infinite linear actuator 7" is configured to move the second elevator cage 5” in a direction downward from the upper floor UF to the lower floor LF. The third hydraulic infinite linear actuator is configured to drive the third elevator cage S’” in a direction upward from a lower floor LF and the fourth hydraulic infinite linear actuator is configured to drive the third elevator cage in a direction downward to the lower floor after that the third elevator cage S'” has been released from the third rope drive arrangement 3'” and moved in a horizontal direction from the first pathway 9' to the second pathway 9" and coupled to the fourth rope drive arrangement 3'”.

A common hydraulic fluid supply unit (not shown) is coupled to the first, the second, the third and the fourth hydraulic infinite linear actuator. The common hydraulic fluid supply unit may comprise an electrical motor coupled to a hydraulic fluid pump connected to a hydraulic fluid reservoir.

A number of elevator cages may be parked on top of each other. They may be parked below the lower floor.

Fig. 4a and 4b illustrate a vertical transportation system according to a fourth example. A first hydraulic infinite linear actuator 7' comprises a first piston rod 21' that is moved a first distance by controlling a first logic valve (not shown) to pressurize a first cylinder chamber Cl and by controlling a first on/off control valve (not shown) to pressurize a first clamping membrane (not shown) for clamping a first piston 23' to the first piston rod 21', thereby moving the first piston rod 21' by means of the first piston 23' (not pressurizing a second cylinder chamber C2), whereas a second piston 23'' being disengaged from the first piston rod 21'. The first piston rod 21' is moved a second distance by controlling a second logic valve (not shown) to pressurize a third cylinder chamber C3 and by controlling a second on/off control valve (not shown) to pressurize a second clamping membrane (not shown) for clamping a second piston 23'' to the first piston rod 21' thereby moving the first piston rod 21' by means of the second piston 23'', (not pressurizing a fourth cylinder chamber C4), whereas the first piston 23' being disengaged from the first piston rod 21'.

A second hydraulic infinite linear actuator 7" comprises a second piston rod 21'' that is moved a first distance by controlling a third logic valve (not shown) to pressurize a fifth cylinder chamber C5 and by controlling a third on/off control valve (not shown) to pressurize a third clamping membrane (not shown) for clamping a third piston 23'" to the second piston rod 21", thereby moving the second piston rod 21" by means of the third piston 23'" (not pressurizing a sixth cylinder chamber C6), whereas a fourth piston 23"" being disengaged from the second piston rod 21". The second piston rod 21" is moved a second distance by controlling a fourth logic valve (not shown) to pressurize a seventh cylinder chamber C7 and by controlling a fourth on/off control valve (not shown) to pressurize a fourth clamping membrane (not shown) for clamping a fourth piston 23"" to the second piston rod 21" thereby moving the second piston rod 21" by means of the fourth piston 23"" (not pressurizing an eight second cylinder chamber C8), whereas the third piston 23'" being disengaged from the second piston rod 21".

The first hydraulic infinite linear actuator 7' thus comprises a first piston 23' slidingly arranged in a first cylinder, the first piston 23' having a first engagement and disengagement device configured to clamp around the first piston rod 21'. A second piston 23'' is slidingly arranged in a second cylinder, the second piston 23'' having a second engagement and disengagement device configured to clamp around the first piston rod 21'. The first piston rod 21' is coupled to the first rope drive arrangement and the first piston rod 21' partly or entirely features a counterweight mass being configured to balance the first elevator cage.

The second hydraulic infinite linear actuator 7" thus comprises a third piston 23''' slidingly arranged in a third cylinder and the third piston 23''' having a third engagement and disengagement device configured to clamp around the second piston rod 21". A fourth piston 23"" is slidingly arranged in a fourth cylinder and the fourth piston 23"" having a fourth engagement and disengagement device configured to clamp around the second piston rod 21'. The second piston rod 21" is coupled to the second rope drive arrangement and partly or entirely features a second counterweight mass being configured to balance the second elevator cage.

In Fig. 4b is shown a third 7'" and fourth 7"" hydraulic infinite linear actuator positioned in the same elevator shaft as the first 7' and second 7" hydraulic infinite linear actuators shown in Fig. 4a. The third 7"' and fourth 7"" hydraulic infinite linear actuators operates in the same manner as the first and second hydraulic infinite linear actuators for moving the respective third and fourth elevator cage S'", 5””. Pulley wheels 30 are arranged to the respective rope drive arrangement for achieving a wire gear. Respective rope drive arrangement (first, second etc.) thus comprises a rope guide pulley arrangement (first, second etc.) guiding a respective rope or wire (first, second etc.) being configured as high-geared arrangement.

The third hydraulic infinite linear actuator 7'" comprises a fifth piston slidingly arranged in a fifth cylinder, the fifth piston having a fifth engagement and disengagement device configured to clamp around a third piston rod 21"'. A sixth piston is slidingly arranged in a sixth cylinder, the sixth piston having a sixth engagement and disengagement device configured to clamp around the third piston rod 21”''. The fourth hydraulic infinite linear actuator 7'”' comprises a seventh piston slidingly arranged in a seventh cylinder, the seventh piston having a seventh engagement and disengagement device configured to clamp around a fourth piston rod 21"". An eight piston is slidingly arranged in an eight cylinder, the eight piston having an eight engagement and disengagement device configured to clamp around the fourth piston rod 21"". The third piston rod 21'" is releasable coupled to the third rope drive arrangement and partly or entirely features a third counterweight mass being configured to balance the third elevator cage. The fourth piston rod 21"" is releasable coupled to the fourth rope drive arrangement and partly or entirely features a fourth counterweight mass being configured to balance the fourth elevator cage.

Fig. 5 illustrates a vertical transportation system according to a fifth example in a view from above. A first pathway 9' (may be configured as one common elevator shaft) comprises a first, a second, a third and fourth hydraulic infinite linear actuator 7', 7", 7'", 7"", which are coupled to common fluid supply (not shown) for moving a respective first, second, third and fourth rope drive arrangement 3', 3", 3'", 3"". The first rope drive arrangement 3' is coupled to a first elevator cage coupling part 13' of a first elevator cage 5'. The second rope drive arrangement 3" is coupled to a second elevator cage coupling part 13" of a second elevator cage (not shown as being hidden by the first elevator cage). The third rope drive

arrangement 3'" is coupled to a third elevator cage coupling part 13'" of a third elevator cage (not shown as being hidden by the first elevator cage). The fourth rope drive arrangement 3"" is coupled to a fourth elevator cage coupling part 13'”' of a fourth elevator cage (not shown as being hidden by the first elevator cage). Each rope drive arrangement uses a pulley wheel 30 arrangement.

The respective elevator cage coupling part 13', 13”, 13'”, 13”” and rope coupling parts (not shown) are positioned at a first side of the first pathway 9'. The first and third hydraulic infinite linear actuator 7', 7'” are positioned at a second side of the first pathway 9'. The second and fourth hydraulic infinite linear actuator 7”, 7”” are positioned at a third side of the first pathway 9'. The second side being opposite the third side. A fourth side may be used for a passenger entrance door for entering the respective elevator cage. The first side being opposite the fourth side.

The four elevator cages are thus positioned in series and above each other. In such way space is saved in a multi-storey building.

The respective rope drive arrangement may be arranged side by side along the pathway and coupled to the respective piston rod. Of course, an elevator shaft or common pathway may comprise any number of elevator cages arranged in line above each other in series.

Fig. 6 illustrates a vertical transportation system 1 according to a sixth example. The vertical transportation system 1 is arranged in a multi-storey building 40 and comprises a plurality of first, second, third, fourth, fifth elevator cages 5', 5”, 5'”, 5””, 5'””, which are configured to be moved by the vertical transportation system 1 in a direction upward in series along a first pathway 9' and which are configured to be moved by the vertical transportation system 1 in a direction downward in series along a second pathway 9”.

In Fig. 6 there is shown that the vertical transportation system 1 moves the first elevator cage 5' upward along the first pathway 9' and moves the second elevator cage 5” downward along the second pathway 9”.

The elevator cages are configured to be moved (after being released from the respective rope drive arrangement) in a horizontal direction between the first pathway 9' and the second pathway 9”. The third elevator cage 5'” is shown to be moved from the first pathway 9' to the second pathway 9". The fourth elevator cage 5”” is shown to be moved from the second pathway 9” to the first pathway 9'. The fifth elevator cage is released from a rope drive arrangement and parked adjacent the second pathway 9" on a lower floor LF.

Fig. 7a illustrates an exemplary method for moving a plurality of first, second, third, fourth elevator cages or a plurality of elevator cages of a vertical transportation system 1 (see e.g. references related to Fig. 3 describing one example of the system), which system 1 comprises a first rope drive arrangement 3' releasable coupled to a first elevator cage 5' and coupled to a first hydraulic infinite linear actuator 7' for moving the first elevator cage 5' along a first pathway 9'. The vertical transportation system 1 comprises a second rope drive arrangement 3” releasable coupled to a second elevator cage 5” and coupled to a second hydraulic infinite linear actuator 7" for moving the second elevator cage 5” along a second pathway 9". The vertical transportation system 1 comprises a third rope drive arrangement S'” releasable coupled to a third elevator cage S'” and coupled to a third hydraulic infinite linear actuator (not shown as being hidden behind the first hydraulic infinite linear actuator 7') for moving the third elevator cage S'” along the first pathway 9'. The vertical transportation system 1 comprises a fourth rope drive arrangement 3”” releasable coupled to a fourth elevator cage 5”” and coupled to a fourth hydraulic infinite linear actuator (not shown as being hidden behind the second hydraulic infinite linear actuator 7") for moving the fourth elevator cage 5”” along the second pathway 9”. The vertical transportation system 1 is configured to release the third elevator cage 5’” from the third rope drive arrangement 3’” by releasing an elevator cage coupling part 13 of the third elevator cage 5’” from a rope coupling part 11 of the third rope drive arrangement 3’”. The released third elevator cage 5’” is configured to be moved horizontally from the first pathway 9' to the second pathway 9”. The third elevator cage 5’” is configured to be coupled to a free (a fourth) rope coupling part 11. of a fourth rope drive arrangement 3”” as the fourth elevator cage 5”” has been released and parked at a lower floor LF. A common hydraulic fluid supply unit (not shown) is coupled to the first 7', the second 7" , the third and the fourth hydraulic infinite linear actuators. The first hydraulic infinite linear actuator 7' is configured to move the first elevator cage 5' in a direction upward from the lower floor LF to an upper floor UF. The second hydraulic infinite linear actuator 7" is configured to move the second elevator cage 5” in a direction downward from the upper floor UF to the lower floor LF. The third hydraulic infinite linear actuator is configured to drive the third elevator cage S’” in a direction upward from a lower floor LF and the fourth hydraulic infinite linear actuator is configured to drive the third elevator cage in a direction downward to the lower floor after that the third elevator cage S'” has been released from the third rope drive arrangement 3'” and moved in a horizontal direction from the first pathway 9' to the second pathway 9" and coupled to the fourth rope drive arrangement 3'”.

The exemplary method shown in Fig. 7a comprises a first step 701 starting the method. A second step 702 comprises the performance of the method. A third step 703 stops the method.

An exemplary method shown Fig. 7b comprises a first step 801 starting the method. A second step 802 may comprise moving the first elevator cage upward along the first pathway to an upper floor. A third step 803 may comprise moving the second elevator cage downward along the second pathway to a lower floor. A fourth step 804 may comprise moving the third elevator cage upward along the first pathway to an intermediate floor. A fifth step 805 may comprise moving the fourth elevator cage downward along the second pathway. A sixth step 806 stops the method.

An exemplary method shown in Fig. 7c comprises a first step 901 starting the method. A second step 902 may comprise releasing a first rope coupling part from the first elevator cage. A third step 903 may comprise moving the first elevator cage from the first pathway to the second first pathway. A fourth step 904 may comprises moving the first rope coupling part downward along the first pathway to the lower floor. A fifth step 905 may comprise releasing a second rope coupling part from the second elevator cage. A sixth step 906 may comprise moving the second elevator cage from the second pathway to the first pathway. A seventh step 907 may comprise moving the second rope coupling part upward along the second pathway to the upper floor. An eight step 908 may comprise moving the first elevator cage to the second pathway. A ninth step 909 may comprise coupling the second rope coupling part to the first elevator cage for moving the first elevator cage downward along the second pathway. A tenth step 910 may comprise releasing the third elevator cage from the third first rope drive arrangement and moving the third elevator cage from the first pathway to the second pathway and coupling a previously released fourth rope coupling part to the third elevator cage for moving the third elevator cage downward along the second pathway. An eleventh step 911 stops the method.

The present invention is of course not in any way restricted to the examples described above, but many possibilities to modifications, or combinations of the examples, thereof should be apparent to a person with ordinary skill in the art without departing from the basic idea of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

The control valve may be a 3/2 valve or may be a two-way valve of any type suitable for achieving the control of the respective hydraulic infinite linear actuator positioned in the common elevator shaft or pathway. The manoeuvring of the control valves may be performed by means of a solenoid connected to the control unit configures for controlling the control valves for raising and lowering the respective elevator cage. The hydraulic infinite linear actuators may be configured for quick and high clamp force engagement of each piston to the respective piston rod for achievement of the accurate acceleration of heavy loads. By controlling the control valves in a suitable way there is provided that the respective hydraulic infinite linear actuator is capable to optionally perform lower force and/or slower motion rate of the respective elevator cage. There are different types of control valves that can be used for providing the above-mentioned aspects and other aspects, e.g. electro-hydraulic controlled valves and other types of directly controlled electro-hydraulic logical valves, etc.

Furthermore, the vertical transportation system may be mounted in a multi-storey building and the number of elevator cages used by the system may be large, e.g. 5-20 or more, still using only a first and second pathway for saving space in the multi-storey building.