Abstract: In a drive sprocket of a passenger conveyer, such as an escalator, having a step chain, the sprocket is provided with an overlay attached to the side of the drive sprocket. The overlay cushions the chain as it engages the drive sprocket teeth to thereby minimize the noise generated by the engagement of the drive sprocket and the step chain. In a particular embodiment, a drive sprocket further includes a plate that provides lateral support of the overlay during engagement with the step chain.

Abstract: A cover for a stowage compartment can pivot about a pivot axis running along the lower edge of the stowage compartment. On a stay projecting into the stowage compartment it has an eye, which engages in a guide on one side wall of the stowage compartment. This guide narrows towards the end at the opening side so that the eye is increasingly braked by clamping action as the cover is opened.

Abstract: Increased safety in the area of running clearance between the step (12) and the skirt panel (10) of an escalator is provided by an elongated tubular bladder (24) running the length of the skirt panel, behind the panel just opposite the step. Inward deflection of the skirt panel indicative of an object trapped between the step and the panel increases the air pressure in the bladder. A switch (30) sensitive to the increased bladder pressure controls a relay (32) that shuts off the escalator drive motor (33) and applies the escalator brake (34).