HK1219085B - A rope terminal assembly and an elevator - Google Patents

Description

Rope end assembly and elevator

Technical Field

The object of the invention is a rope terminal assembly for an elevator and an elevator, said elevator being suitable for transporting passengers and/or freight.

Background Art

In elevator systems, elevator ropes are used to suspend and/or move the elevator car, counterweight, or both. Modern elevators use lightweight suspension ropes, which consist of multiple belt-type ropes whose width in the transverse direction of the rope is greater than its thickness. The ropes include load-bearing components made of a composite material containing non-metallic reinforcing fibers in a polymer matrix. The structure and selection of materials enable low-weight elevator ropes with a thin structure in the bending direction and good tensile stiffness and tensile strength in the longitudinal direction. Furthermore, the rope structure remains essentially unchanged during bending, which contributes to a long service life.

Several arrangements have been proposed to provide tools for connecting elevator ropes to elevator units. Mechanically connecting elevator ropes to elevator units without damaging the ropes is challenging due to the use of non-metallic elevator ropes, particularly those made from fiber-reinforced polymer composites. Rope end assemblies using wedge elements and wedge housings with welded joints have been successfully used to lock elevator ropes in their rope ends. A disadvantage of such elevator rope end assemblies is that they require a complex rope end wedge housing composed of several components welded together. The complex geometry of the wedge housing with welded joints is not optimal in terms of material strength. Furthermore, elevator ropes typically consist of multiple ropes, which results in a significant number of rope ends required, making the production of large quantities of complex rope end products, particularly on an assembly line, expensive. It would be advantageous if the elevator rope end could be formed as simply as possible, as a seamless wedge housing without multiple welded components. Consequently, there is a growing need for cost-effective and reliable elevator rope end assemblies that provide connections to elevator rope condition monitoring devices.

Summary of the Invention

The present invention aims to introduce an improved rope end assembly and elevator. In particular, the present invention aims to overcome the disadvantages of the known solutions and problems discussed later in the description of the present invention. A faster manufacturing and installation process to produce a cost-effective and reliable rope end assembly is also an object. The present invention also aims to provide a rope end assembly for an elevator rope comprising a polymer composite material with improved manufacturing and installation quality.

In particular, the proposed embodiments facilitate a convenient, safe, and efficient rope end manufacturing process and rope end assembly with respect to the detection of damage to non-metallic load-bearing components in the elevator rope. Furthermore, embodiments are proposed wherein the rope end assembly enables the production of large quantities of rope end products, particularly in a cost-effective manner on a rope end assembly line.

A novel rope end assembly for securing an elevator rope to a fixed base, such as an elevator unit, for an elevator suitable for transporting passengers and/or freight is proposed. The assembly comprises an elevator rope having a width greater than its thickness in the transverse direction of the rope and having at least one end with an end face, one or more wedge-shaped elements, and a wedge-shaped housing. The rope end assembly includes a rope gap through which the elevator rope passes, and the wedge-shaped elements are arranged to wedge between the rope and the wedge-shaped housing, thereby locking the elevator rope in the gap. The wedge-shaped housing is a single-piece structure of predetermined dimensions.

In a preferred embodiment, the wedge shell is a one-piece structure of predetermined dimensions made from a hollow tube of circular cross-section. In order to hydroform the metal, preferably aluminum hollow tube, into the wedge shell shape, a hollow tube of preferably ductile metal such as aluminum, brass, low alloy steel, stainless steel is placed in a female mold having the shape of the wedge shell. A high pressure hydraulic pump is then used to inject a fluid at very high pressure into the aluminum interior causing it to expand until it matches the mold. The hydroformed aluminum wedge shell is then removed from the mold. Hydroforming allows the formation of complex shapes with recesses, which would be difficult or impossible using standard solid die stamping. The hydroformed wedge shell can therefore be made with a higher stiffness-to-weight ratio and at a lower cost per unit than conventionally stamped or stamped and welded wedge shells.

In a preferred embodiment, the wedge-shaped housing is a one-piece structure of predetermined dimensions made from a hollow tube by tube hydroforming, preferably by a bulge forming process. In this way, forming the rope end wedge-shaped housing into a lightweight, structurally stiff and strong piece is performed in a cost-effective manner.

In a preferred embodiment, the elevator rope includes at least one rope having at least one load-bearing member made of a carbon fiber reinforced polymer composite material. In a preferred embodiment, each of the at least one load-bearing member has a width greater than its thickness in the width direction of the rope. In particular, it is preferred that each of the at least one rope is in the form of a belt. This large width makes it well-suited for use in elevators, as rope bending is essential in most elevators. This allows the rope, and in particular its load-bearing member, to have a larger cross-sectional area, which facilitates achieving a feasible size for rope stiffness.

In a preferred embodiment, the rope end assembly includes a rope end block attached to the rope end, and the rope end block is attached to the end face of the elevator rope relative to the wedge element. This further improves the safety of the rope end assembly. The rope end block serves as a safety device for the rope end assembly. If the elevator rope slips in the rope gap of the rope end assembly, the rope end block pushes the wedge element, causing the wedge element to become more tightly wedged between the rope and the wedge housing, thereby locking the elevator rope in the gap.

In a preferred embodiment, the wedge-shaped element is an elongated element comprising a smooth contact surface portion and a rough or patterned contact surface portion, the smooth contact surface portion being arranged to abut against the wedge-shaped housing element, and the rough or patterned contact surface portion being arranged to abut against the elevator rope surface. The wedge-shaped element also comprises space at the first end of the wedge-shaped element for a rope end block. Thus, there is space for a rope end block fastening device that can be attached to the wedge-shaped element. The space for the rope end block is advantageously on the side of the rough or patterned contact surface portion at the first end of the wedge-shaped element and comprises a threaded opening for the fastening device. The wedge-shaped element is advantageously made of metal or some other mechanically suitable material.

In a preferred embodiment, the elevator rope is electrically connected to a rope condition monitoring device via the rope end block, which includes one or more electrically conductive short-circuiting elements and a fastening device. In a preferred embodiment, an elevator rope having a carbon fiber reinforced polymer composite material carrier is secured to an elevator unit having the rope end assembly, and the electrical rope condition monitoring device is connected to the rope via the rope end block of the rope end assembly. For unidirectional carbon fiber reinforced polymer composite materials, the longitudinal resistance of the unidirectional fibers is much lower than the transverse resistance, and damage in the composite material can be detected by measuring one or the other. Electrical resistance is a good damage sensor for carbon/epoxy laminates, particularly for detecting fiber breaks.

In a preferred embodiment, the rope end assembly is used in elevators with counterweights, but it can also be applied to elevators without counterweights. Furthermore, it can be used in conjunction with other hoisting machines, for example as a crane suspension and/or transmission rope. The low weight of the rope offers advantages, particularly during acceleration, since the energy required to change the rope's speed depends on its mass. The low weight further offers advantages over rope systems requiring separate compensating ropes, since the need for such ropes is reduced or eliminated entirely. The low weight also allows for easier rope handling.

In a preferred embodiment of an elevator, the rope end assembly according to the present invention is used to secure elevator ropes to a fixed base, such as an elevator unit or a hoistway. The elevator is arranged to include a hoistway and an elevator unit movable within the hoistway, the elevator unit being an elevator car for transporting passengers and/or freight. The elevator arrangement may also include other movable elevator units, such as a counterweight, as shown. The elevator comprises a hoisting device containing a hoisting device, one or more suspension and/or transmission ropes, each of which comprises one or more, preferably at least four, load-bearing members connected to at least one elevator unit using a rope end assembly. In a preferred embodiment, each rope is guided over a traction sheave rotated by the elevator's hoisting machine and one or more diverting pulleys. As the hoisting machine rotates, the traction sheave simultaneously moves the elevator car and counterweight upward and downward, respectively, due to friction. Furthermore, in high-rise buildings and high-speed elevators, one or more compensating ropes are provided, each connected at its first end to the bottom of the counterweight and at its second end to the bottom of the elevator car, or to the car sling or the car itself. The compensating ropes are kept taut, for example, by a compensating pulley under which they are passed and which is supported to a support structure at the base of the elevator shaft. The traveling cables, intended for the power supply of the elevator car and/or for data communication, are connected at their first end to the elevator car, for example to the bottom of the elevator car, and at their second end to a connection point on the wall of the elevator shaft, which connection point is usually at or above the midpoint in the height direction of the elevator shaft.

Preferably, the elevator includes a rope condition monitoring device comprising an elevator rope electrically connected to the rope condition monitoring device via a rope end block comprising one or more electrically conductive short-circuiting elements and a fastening device, and a rope condition monitoring device that monitors and transmits an electrical signal from the elevator rope to an elevator controller at predetermined time intervals, preferably at least once per second. If an error signal is transmitted from the rope condition monitoring device to the elevator controller, elevator operation is altered or the elevator is taken out of service. Preferably, the rope condition monitoring device includes a current source, a voltage measuring device, a microcontroller, and a display for monitoring the condition of the rope.

In a preferred embodiment, the rope end block has a first portion on a first side of the elevator rope and a second portion on a second side of the elevator rope. Preferably, the rope end block extends over the end face of the elevator rope and is a one-piece structure, wherein the first and second portions of the rope end block are connected to a middle portion of the rope end block.

Preferably, the rope end block is made of plastic or some other non-conductive material. Preferably, the rope end block is a one-piece structure made of plastic, preferably a thermoplastic polymer such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene or polyvinyl chloride or a thermosetting polymer such as polyester, polyurethane or epoxy resin. The rope end block can be reinforced with glass, carbon or aramid fibers, and the reinforcing fibers can be chopped or they can be continuous fibers. As a result, the mechanical properties of the rope end block, in particular the specific strength and rigidity, are improved. Preferably, the rope end block is manufactured, for example, by extrusion, pultrusion, injection molding, blow molding, thermoforming, rotational molding, casting, foaming, compression molding or transfer molding. As a result, the rope end block can be manufactured quickly and at low cost. The rope end block can also be made of recycled plastic or other recycled materials.

Preferably, the rope end block comprises a first frame portion attached to the end of the elevator rope and a second frame portion attached to the wedge-shaped element. Preferably, but not necessarily, the rope end block comprises an elastic portion between the first and second frame portions, which elastic portion allows relative movement of the first and second frame portions of the rope end block. The elastic portion is advantageously located outside the second frame portion of the rope end block attached to the wedge-shaped element.

Preferably, the rope end block is connected to the elevator rope end using a fastening device. Thus, the fastening device can be inserted through an opening in the first frame portion of the rope end block. The fastening device can advantageously be made of metal or some other suitable conductive material. Advantageously, the fastening device is a screw or bolt with a nut. Fastening to the rope can be performed by drilling a hole in the rope and fastening it with the screw or bolt. The elasticity of the rope end block can also be enhanced by sizing and designing the opening in the first frame portion of the rope end block to have, for example, an oval shape.

Preferably, the rope end block is connected to the wedge-shaped element using a fixing device. Thus, the fixing device can be passed through an opening in the second frame portion of the rope end block. The fixing device can advantageously be made of metal or some other mechanically suitable material. The fixing device is advantageously a screw or bolt. Fastening to the wedge-shaped element can be performed by drilling a hole in the wedge-shaped element and fastening it with the screw or bolt.

Preferably, the rope end block comprises one or more short-circuit elements attached to the rope end block having a fastening device. The fastening device can therefore pass through an opening in the short-circuit element. The short-circuit element and the fastening device are advantageously made of metal or some other suitable conductive material. The fastening device is advantageously a screw or bolt. Fastening to the rope can be performed by drilling holes in the rope and fastening with the screw or bolt. The fastening device used to connect the short-circuit element is advantageously the same screw or bolt used to connect the rope end block to the rope. Preferably, the short-circuit element is a metal shorting plate.

Preferably, the wedge-shaped housing comprises two elongated side portions and two elongated wedge-shaped support portions, the side portions and the wedge-shaped support portions being one-piece structures of predetermined dimensions made from a hollow tube of circular cross-section. Preferably, the wedge-shaped housing element comprises one or more adjustable locking devices, which are arranged to lock the wedge-shaped element in its position in the wedge-shaped housing. For the locking devices, an opening in the wedge-shaped housing support element can be passed through. The wedge-shaped housing is advantageously made of metal or some other mechanically suitable material. The locking devices are advantageously screws or bolts. The locking of the wedge-shaped element is performed by tightening with the screws or bolts. The rope end assembly is fixed to the fixed base, wherein the fixing rod is fixed to the wedge-shaped housing side portion by means of fixing devices. For the fixing devices of the fixing rod, an opening in the wedge-shaped housing side portion can be passed through.

In a preferred embodiment of an elevator rope termination assembly, a lightweight rope comprises one or more, preferably at least four, unidirectional carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) load cells coated with a polyurethane coating. With four load cells, the rope is electrically modeled as four resistors. The preferred solution is to measure the rope as a single impedance. This keeps the measurement arrangement simple, and the method is more reliable because the number of wires and connections is minimized. This approach provides a simple and reliable solution for short-circuiting CFRP load cells. The measuring wire is connected to the rope, preferably by screwing self-tapping screws between the load cells, so that the screws serve as a conductive path between adjacent load cells. At the counterweight end of the rope, preferably three screws are used to short-circuit all strands. At the car end of the rope, preferably the two outermost load cells are connected together, and the measuring wire is inserted beneath these two screws using a split-ring connector. With this arrangement, all CFRP load cells are monitored, and the entire rope is treated as a single resistor.

In an embodiment of a rope end assembly for an elevator for securing an elevator rope to a fixed base, such as an elevator unit, the assembly comprises: an elevator rope having a width greater than its thickness in a transverse direction of the rope, having at least one end with an end face, a rope end block connected to the rope end, a wedge-shaped element, and a wedge-shaped housing. The rope end assembly comprises a rope gap through which the elevator rope passes, the wedge-shaped element being arranged to wedge between the rope and the wedge-shaped housing, preferably on a supporting side of the rope and the wedge-shaped housing, thereby locking the elevator rope in the gap, and the rope end block being attached to the end face side of the elevator rope relative to the wedge-shaped element.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, at least one rope, but preferably some suspension and/or transmission ropes, is constructed such that the rope width in the transverse direction of the rope is greater than its thickness and is configured to support and move an elevator car. The rope comprises a load-bearing member made of a composite material comprising reinforcing fibers, preferably unidirectional carbon fibers, in a polymer matrix. Most preferably, the suspension rope is secured to the elevator car at one end and to the counterweight at the other end, but is also applicable to elevators without a counterweight. Although the figures only illustrate an elevator with a 1:1 suspension ratio, the described rope is also suitable for use as a suspension rope in elevators with a 1:2 suspension ratio. The rope is particularly well-suited for use as a suspension rope in elevators with large hoisting heights, preferably exceeding 100 meters, and most preferably 150-800 meters. The defined rope can also be used to implement new elevators without compensating ropes or to convert old elevators to elevators without compensating ropes.

It will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, which have been described by way of example, but that numerous variations and different embodiments of the invention are possible within the scope of the inventive concept defined in the claims set forth below. It is therefore readily apparent that the rope described can be provided with a toothed surface or some other type of patterned surface to create positive contact with the traction sheave. It is also readily apparent that the rectangular composite carrier can include edges that are substantially more rounded than those shown, or edges that are not round at all. Similarly, the polymer layer of the rope can include edges/corners that are substantially more rounded than those shown, or edges that are not round at all. It is also readily apparent that the carrier in the embodiments can be arranged to cover a substantial portion of the rope's cross-section. In this case, the sheath-like polymer layer surrounding the carrier can be made thinner than the thickness of the carrier in the rope's thickness direction. It is also readily apparent that other types of belts than those shown can be used in conjunction with the solutions shown. It is also readily apparent that carbon fiber and glass fiber can be used in the same composite part, if necessary. It is also readily apparent that the thickness of the polymer layer can vary from that described. It is also readily apparent that the shear-resistant portion can be used as an additional component with any of the other rope structures described in this application. It is also obvious that the matrix polymer in which the reinforcing fibers are distributed can include—admixed into the base matrix polymer, such as, for example, epoxy resin—auxiliary materials such as, for example, reinforcements, fillers, pigments, flame retardants, stabilizers, or corresponding agents. It is also obvious that, while the polymer matrix preferably does not include an elastomer, the present invention can also be utilized by using an elastomeric matrix. It is also obvious that the fibers do not necessarily have to be circular in cross-section, but rather they can have some other cross-sectional shape. It is further obvious that auxiliary materials such as, for example, reinforcements, fillers, pigments, flame retardants, stabilizers, or corresponding agents can be mixed into the base polymer of the layer, such as, for example, polyurethane. It is also obvious that the present invention can also be applied to elevators designed for hoisting heights other than those considered above.

An elevator as described above is preferably, but not necessarily, installed within a building. The car preferably travels vertically. The car is preferably arranged to serve two or more landings. The car preferably responds to calls from the landings and/or destination commands from within the car to serve people at the landings and/or within the elevator car. The car preferably has an interior space suitable for receiving passengers, and the car may be provided with a door to form an enclosed interior space.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in more detail by way of examples and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Fig. 1 schematically shows an elevator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 a shows a preferred embodiment of a hollow tube placed in a female mold having the shape of a wedge-shaped housing.

Figure 2b shows a preferred embodiment of a hollow tube placed within a female die that has been hydroformed into the shape of a wedge-shaped housing.

Figure 2c shows a cross section of a preferred embodiment of a hydroformed wedge-shaped housing.

Figure 3a shows a cross section of a preferred embodiment of a rope end assembly having two wedge-shaped elements.

Figure 3b shows a side view of a preferred embodiment of a rope end assembly having two wedge-shaped elements.

Figure 3c shows an embodiment of a rope end block.

Figures 4a-4c show preferred alternative cross sections for elevator ropes.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG1 shows a preferred embodiment of an elevator in which a rope end assembly 1 according to the present invention is used to connect elevator ropes R and C to an elevator unit 2. The elevator is arranged to include a hoistway S and an elevator unit 2 movable within the hoistway S. The elevator unit is an elevator car 2 for transporting passengers and/or freight. The elevator installation may also include other movable elevator units, such as a counterweight CW, as shown. The elevator comprises a hoisting machine (including a hoisting device M), ropes (including one or more suspension and transport ropes R), each of which comprises one or more load-bearing members 10a-d, 11a-b, 12, and is connected to at least the elevator unit 2 and CW using a rope end assembly 1. Each rope R is guided over a traction sheave 4 and one or more diverting pulleys 3, which are rotated by the elevator's hoisting machine M. As the hoisting machine M rotates, the traction sheave 4 simultaneously moves the elevator car 2 and counterweight CW upward and downward, respectively, due to friction. In addition, in high-rise buildings and high-speed elevators, a second rope system is provided, comprising one or more compensating ropes C. Each compensating rope C is suspended at its first end to the bottom of the counterweight CW and at its second end to the bottom of the elevator car 2, or to a car sling or the car itself. The compensating ropes C are kept taut, for example, by a compensating pulley 5, under which the compensating ropes C are routed and which is connected to a support structure at the base of the elevator shaft S, although this support structure is not shown in the figure. A traveling cable T, intended for supplying power to the elevator car and/or for data communication, such as rope condition monitoring data, is suspended at its first end to the elevator car 2, for example to the bottom of the elevator car 2, and at its second end to a connection point on the wall of the elevator shaft S, typically at or above the midpoint of the height of the elevator shaft S.

Figures 2a-2c show a preferred embodiment of the wedge-shaped shell 7, which is a one-piece structure of predetermined dimensions made from a hollow tube 7a of circular cross-section. In order to hydroform the metal hollow tube 7a into the wedge-shaped shell shape, the hollow tube 7a, preferably made of a ductile metal such as aluminum, brass, low alloy steel, or stainless steel, is placed in a female mold 6, 6' having the shape of the wedge-shaped shell. A high-pressure hydraulic pump is then used to inject fluid at very high pressure into the aluminum interior, causing it to expand until it matches the mold. The hydroformed aluminum wedge-shaped shell 7b, 7b' is then removed from the mold. Hydroforming allows the formation of complex shapes with recessed portions that would be difficult or impossible using standard solid die stamping. The hydroformed wedge-shaped shell 7 can therefore be made with a higher stiffness-to-weight ratio and at a lower cost per unit than a conventionally stamped or stamped and welded wedge-shaped shell. As shown in Figure 2a, the hollow tube 7a, preferably made of a ductile metal, is placed in a female mold 6, 6' having the shape of the wedge-shaped shell. As shown in FIG2b , using molds 6 and 6' that are symmetrical in the length direction of the wedge shells, the two wedge shells 7b and 7b' are manufactured simultaneously in the molds 6 and 6' by cutting a single hydroformed sheet in half for the two wedge shells 7b and 7b'. FIG2c shows circular cross-sections 7c, 7c', 7c", 7c'", 7c" of the hydroformed wedge shells 7b and 7b' at different points in the length direction of the wedge shells 7b and 7b'.

3a-3c show a preferred embodiment of a rope end assembly 1 for an elevator for securing an elevator rope R to a fixed base, such as an elevator unit 2, CW, the rope end assembly 1 comprising an elevator rope R having a width greater than its thickness in the transverse direction of the rope, at least one end of which has an end face R', a rope end block 9 attached to the rope end, two wedge-shaped elements 8, 8', and a wedge-shaped housing 4. The rope end assembly 1 comprises a rope gap through which the elevator rope R passes, and the wedge-shaped elements 8, 8' are arranged to be wedged between the rope R and the wedge-shaped housing 7, preferably between the rope R and a supporting portion of the wedge-shaped housing 7, thereby locking the elevator rope in the gap, the rope end block 9 being connected on the side of the end face R' of the elevator rope R opposite the wedge-shaped elements 8, 8'. Figure 3a shows circular cross sections 7a, 7a', 7a", 7a'", 7a"' of the rope end assembly 1 with two wedge elements at different points in the length direction of the wedge housing 7, and Figure 3b shows a side view of the rope end assembly 1 with two wedge elements.

FIG3c shows an embodiment of a rope end block 9 attached to the elevator rope R using a fastening device 91. The fastening device 91 can be inserted through an opening in the frame portion of the rope end block 9. The fastening device 91 can advantageously be made of metal or some other suitable conductive material. The fastening device 91 is advantageously a screw or bolt with a nut. Fastening to the rope R can be accomplished by drilling a hole in the rope R and tightening it with the screw or bolt. The elasticity of the rope end block 9 can also be enhanced by sizing and designing the opening in the frame portion of the rope end block 9 to have, for example, an oval shape. The rope end block 9 includes one or more short-circuit elements attached to the rope end block 9 using a fastening device. The fastening device can therefore be inserted through openings in the short-circuit elements. The short-circuit elements, such as a short-circuit plate, and the fastening device are advantageously made of metal or some other suitable conductive material. The rope end block 9 is made of plastic or some other non-conductive material. Preferably, the rope end block 9 is a single-piece structure made of plastic, preferably a thermoplastic polymer or a thermosetting polymer.

The wedge housing 7 may include a hollow interior and one or more adjustable locking devices 81, which are arranged to lock the wedge elements 8, 8' in their position in the wedge housing element. The locking devices 81 can be inserted through an opening in the wedge housing element 7. The locking devices 81 are advantageously screws or bolts. The wedge elements are locked by tightening them with the screws or bolts. The rope end assembly 1 is fixed to the fixing base, wherein a fixing rod is fixed to the side of the wedge housing 7 via the fixing devices. The fixing devices for the fixing rods can be inserted through an opening 10 in the wedge housing 7.

An elevator includes a rope condition monitoring device comprising a rope condition monitoring device that monitors and transmits electrical signals from the elevator ropes R, C to an elevator controller at predetermined intervals, preferably at least once per second. If an error signal is transmitted from the rope condition monitoring device to the elevator controller, elevator operation is altered or the elevator is taken out of service. Preferably, the rope condition monitoring device is configured to measure the electrical resistance between a first point and a second point on the elevator ropes R, C, both initially during elevator installation and a second time while the elevator is being used to transport passengers and/or freight. Preferably, the first and second points are points on non-metallic load-bearing members 11a-d, 12a-b, 13 of the elevator ropes R, C, or points on several electrically connected non-metallic load-bearing members 11a-d, 12a-b, 13 of the elevator ropes R, C.

Preferably, the wedge-shaped elements 8, 8' are elongated elements comprising a smooth contact surface portion arranged to bear against the wedge housing 7 and a roughened or patterned contact surface portion arranged to bear against the surface of the elevator rope R. The wedge-shaped elements 8, 8' may also comprise space for a rope end block 9 at the first end of the wedge-shaped elements 8, 8'. Thus, there is space for a fastening device 91 of the rope end block 9 to be attached to the wedge-shaped elements 8, 8'. The space for the rope end block 9 is advantageously on the side of the roughened or patterned contact surface portion of the first end of the wedge-shaped elements 8, 8' and comprises a threaded opening for the fastening device 91. The wedge-shaped elements 8, 8' are advantageously made of metal or some other mechanically suitable material.

Figures 4a, 4b, and 4c, respectively, show a preferred embodiment of a cross-section of a rope R having four load-bearing elements 11a-d, two load-bearing elements 12a-b, and one load-bearing element 13, as described in conjunction with one of Figures 1 and 3 for use as a suspension and/or transport rope R for an elevator, particularly a passenger elevator. In use according to the present invention, at least one rope R, but preferably several ropes R, is constructed such that its width in the transverse direction of the rope R is greater than its thickness and is configured to support and move an elevator car. The rope R comprises load-bearing elements 11a-d, 12a-b, 13 made of a composite material comprising reinforcing fibers f consisting of untwisted unidirectional carbon fibers in a polymer matrix m oriented in the longitudinal direction of the rope. Most preferably, the suspension rope R is secured to the elevator car 1 at one end and to the counterweight CW at the other end, but is also suitable for elevators without a counterweight. Although the figures illustrate only an elevator with a 1:1 suspension ratio, the rope R described is also suitable for use as a suspension rope R in elevators with a 1:2 suspension ratio. The rope R is particularly well suited for use as a suspension and transport rope R in elevators with large hoisting heights, preferably elevators with a hoisting height of more than 100 meters, most preferably 150-800 meters. The defined rope R can also be used to realize new elevators without compensating ropes C or to convert old elevators into elevators without compensating ropes C.

As shown in Figures 4a-4c, the rope R is in the form of a belt and thus has a width substantially greater than its thickness. This makes it well-suited for elevator use, as rope bending is essential in most elevators. To ensure a turning radius well-suited for elevator use, the rope preferably has a width-to-thickness ratio of at least 2 or more, preferably at least 4, and even more preferably at least 5 or more. To ensure a turning radius well-suited for elevator use, the force-transmitting portion preferably has a width-to-thickness ratio of at least 2, preferably at least 3 or more. When the rope R is constructed to include only one load-bearing element 13, this ratio is preferably 5 or more. It is preferred that all load-bearing elements 11a-d, 12a-b, 13 of the rope R (regardless of whether only one or more of them are present in the rope) together cover the majority of the rope width, preferably 70% or more, more preferably 75% or more, and most preferably 80% or more. Thus, the rope's width is effectively utilized for load-bearing functions.

In the embodiments shown in Figures 4a and 4b, the rope R includes multiple load-bearing members 11a-d, 12a-b. These multiple load-bearing members 11a-d, 12a-b are positioned adjacent to each other in the same plane across the width of the belt. In the embodiment shown in Figure 4c, the rope R includes only one load-bearing member 13. In both embodiments, the load-bearing members 11a-d, 12a-b, 13 are surrounded by a layer P, which forms the surface of the rope protecting the load-bearing members 11a-d, 12a-b, 13. Layer P is preferably a polymer, most preferably an elastomeric polymer such as polyurethane, as it provides good wear resistance, protection, and good friction properties, for example, for frictional traction contact with the rope pulley 4. In both embodiments, the load-bearing members 11a-d, 12a-b, 13 have a width greater than their thickness, as measured across the width of the rope R.

In the present application, the term load-bearing part of a rope refers to that part which extends in the longitudinal direction of the rope and which is capable of withstanding, without breaking, a significant portion of the load in question applied to the rope in the longitudinal direction of the rope. The aforementioned load applied to the rope results in a tension in the load-bearing part in the longitudinal direction of the load-bearing part, which tension can be transmitted inside the load-bearing part in question over the entire length of the load-bearing part, for example from one end of the load-bearing part to its other end.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, which have been described by way of example, but that numerous variations and different embodiments of the invention are possible within the scope of the inventive concept defined in the claims set forth below. It is therefore apparent that the rope R described can be provided with a toothed surface or some other type of patterned surface to create positive contact with the traction sheave 4. It is also apparent that the rectangular composite carriers 11a-d, 12a-b, and 13 can include edges that are substantially more rounded than those shown or are not rounded at all. Similarly, the polymer layer p of the rope R can include edges/corners that are substantially more rounded than those shown or are not rounded at all. It is also apparent that the carriers 11a-d, 12a-b, and 13 in the embodiments can be arranged to cover a substantial portion of the cross-section of the rope R. In this case, the sheath-like polymer layer p surrounding the carriers 11a-d, 12a-b, and 13 can be made thinner than the thickness of the carriers 11a-d, 12a-b, and 13 in the thickness direction of the rope R. It is also obvious that, in conjunction with the solutions illustrated in the figures, other types of tapes than those shown can be used. It is also obvious that, if necessary, carbon fibers and glass fibers can be used in the same composite part. It is also obvious that the thickness of the polymer p layer can vary from that described. It is also obvious that the shear-resistant portion can be used as an additional component with any of the other rope structures described in this application. It is also obvious that the matrix polymer in which the reinforcing fibers f are distributed can include—admixed into the base matrix polymer, such as epoxy resin, for example—auxiliary materials such as reinforcements, fillers, pigments, flame retardants, stabilizers, or similar agents. It is also obvious that, while the polymer matrix preferably does not include an elastomer, the present invention can also be utilized by using an elastomeric matrix. It is also obvious that the fibers f do not necessarily have to be circular in cross-section; they can have some other cross-sectional shape. It is further obvious that auxiliary materials such as reinforcements, fillers, pigments, flame retardants, stabilizers, or similar agents can be mixed into the base polymer of the layer p, such as polyurethane. It is also obvious that the present invention can also be applied to elevators designed for hoisting heights other than those considered above.

It should be understood that the above description and accompanying drawings are only intended to illustrate the present invention. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the concepts of the present invention may be implemented in various ways. The present invention and its embodiments are not limited to the examples described above, but may vary within the scope of the claims.

Claims (21)

1. A rope end assembly (1) for securing an elevator rope (R) to a fixed base, the elevator being adapted to transport passengers and/or goods, the rope end assembly (1) comprising: - An elevator rope (R), the width of which is greater than its thickness in the transverse direction of the elevator rope, and at least one end having an end face (R'). - One or more wedge-shaped elements (8, 8'), - Wedge-shaped shell (7), The feature is that the rope end assembly (1) includes a rope gap through which the elevator rope (R) passes, and the wedge elements (8, 8') are arranged to wedge between the elevator rope (R) and the wedge housing (7) to lock the elevator rope (R) in the rope gap. The wedge housing (7) is a one-piece structure with a predetermined size, and the wedge housing (7) is made by tubular hydroforming of a one-piece structure of a hollow metal tube of a predetermined size of ductile metal. 2. The rope end assembly (1) according to claim 1, wherein the fixed base is an elevator unit (2, CW). 3. The rope end assembly (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the wedge-shaped shell (7) is made of a single-piece structure of a hollow metal tube of predetermined size of ductile metal by an bulging forming method. 4. The rope end assembly (1) according to claim 1, wherein the wedge-shaped housing (7) is made of a single-piece structure of a hollow metal tube having a predetermined size of circular cross-section. 5. The rope end assembly (1) according to claim 1, wherein the tough metal is aluminum. 6. The rope end assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the wedge element (8, 8') is an elongated element comprising a smooth contact surface portion and a rough contact surface portion, the smooth contact surface portion being arranged to abut against the wedge housing (7) and the rough contact surface being arranged to abut against the surface of the elevator rope (R). 7. The rope end assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the wedge housing (7) includes one or more adjustable locking devices (81) arranged to lock the wedge element (8, 8') in the position of the wedge element in the wedge housing (7). 8. The rope end assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the rope end assembly (1) includes a rope end block (9) attached to the end of the rope, and the rope end block (9) is attached to the elevator rope (R) on the end face (R') side relative to the wedge element (8, 8'). 9. The rope end assembly (1) according to claim 8, characterized in that the rope end block (9) has a first portion on a first side of the elevator rope (R) and a second portion on a second side of the elevator rope (R). 10. The rope end assembly (1) according to claim 8, wherein the rope end block (9) extends on the end face (R') of the elevator rope (R). 11. The rope end assembly (1) according to claim 9, wherein the rope end block (9) is a single-piece structure, wherein the first part and the second part of the rope end block (9) are connected to the middle part of the rope end block (9). 12. The rope end assembly (1) according to claim 8, wherein the rope end block (9) is connected to the end of the elevator rope by a fastening device (91). 13. The rope end assembly (1) according to claim 8, wherein the rope end block (9) is made of a non-conductive material. 14. The rope end assembly (1) according to claim 13, wherein the rope end block (9) is made of plastic. 15. The rope end assembly (1) according to claim 8, wherein the elevator rope (R) is electrically connected to the rope condition monitoring device via the rope end block (9) comprising a fastening device and one or more conductive short-circuiting elements. 16. The rope end assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the elevator rope (R) is made of a non-metallic material. 17. The rope end assembly (1) according to claim 16, wherein the elevator rope (R) is made of carbon fiber reinforced polymer composite material (f, m, p). 18. The rope end assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the elevator rope includes a non-metallic load-bearing member (11a-d, 12a-b, 13) to which the rope condition monitoring device is connected by a conductive fastening device. 19. The rope end assembly (1) according to claim 18, wherein the elevator rope includes a carbon fiber reinforced polymer (f, m) carrier (11a-d, 12a-b, 13) to which the rope condition monitoring device is connected by a conductive fastening device. 20. An elevator suitable for transporting passengers and/or goods, the elevator comprising: - Shaft (S), - At least one elevator unit (2, CW) movable within the shaft (S), comprising at least one elevator car (2), - A lifting device, comprising a lifting mechanism (M) and one or more elevator ropes (R, C) connected to at least one elevator unit (2, CW). The elevator ropes (R, C) are characterized in that they are fixed to the fixed base using a rope end assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 18. 21. The elevator as claimed in claim 20, wherein the fixed base is an elevator unit (2, CW).