Abstract: An improved method for mounting elevator rails within a hoistway includes the initial step of securing support brackets to a pair of rails. The brackets, rails, a machine for driving a cab and a dead end hitch are then mounted within the hoistway. A cab may then be moved vertically within the hoistway and additional support brackets are placed at vertically spaced locations. The connection of the brackets and rails provides support to dissipate the loads which are transferred into the rail in such systems wherein the machine or the dead end hitch is fixed to a rail. Once the rails have been adequately supported by additional brackets, the brackets which are secured to the rails are removed from the rail. The brackets provide support, but are no longer fixed to the rails.

Abstract: An elevator system includes a hoistway having a vertically adjacent structural platform, i.e., a roof slab or pit slab, that includes a recess, and a machine that fits within the recess. The vertically adjacent structural platform defines either the ceiling or floor of the hoistway. As a result of having the machine tucked into the recess in the hoistway, the machine is removed from the hoistway and the hoistway need not be expanded, either horizontally or vertically, to accommodate the machine.

Abstract: An elevator system (1) includes a guide rail bracket (10) attached to a single hoistway wall (20). Car guide rails (5) and counterweight guide rails (6) are fixed to the bracket (10). The counterweight guide rails (6) are positioned in between the car guide rails (5) so that the counterweight (11) can translate therebetween. The elevator car (8) is supported by rope (4) and sheave (2, 3) members coupled to a traction drive (16).

Abstract: A structural system for elevator assemblies includes a horizontal compression member positioned near the top of the elevator hoistway for reacting to inwardly directed tension loads and moment forces applied to the hoistway wall and connection components resulting from the elevator vertical load. The horizontal compression member includes a rigid member positioned in a compression state between mounting structures for elevator ropes and elevator machine components such that the compression member reacts and counters inwardly directed horizontal forces and resultant moment forces caused by a centralized, downward vertical load.

Abstract: An elevator system includes an elevator car and a counterweight installed in parallel with an outer wall of a building. The system is mounted to a single wall and can be installed into preexisting, multi-floor structures which have been constructed without an elevator hoistway. To move the car between floors, a drive assembly is mounted to a structural beam attached to the outer wall. The structural beam extends from the outer wall and is at least partially supported by the elevator car guide rails.

Abstract: A traction elevator system includes a machine having a rotor including permanent magnets and a flat rope engaged with the machine. The flat rope includes one or more load-carrying members retained within a common sheath from a non-metallic material.

Abstract: A traction elevator system includes a machine having a rotor including permanent magnets and a flat rope engaged with the machine. The flat rope includes one or more load-carrying members retained within a common sheath from a non-metallic material.

Abstract: A hydraulic elevator system having a configuration without a machineroom is disclosed. The hydraulic elevator system includes a valve assembly that is separated and remotely located from the pump and fluid tank. This arrangement permits the valve assembly and an electronic controller to be located in a cabinet outside of the hoistway, and the other hydraulic components, such as a tank and pump, to be located in the hoistway.

Abstract: A hydraulic elevator includes a hydraulic ram and a counterweight that are directly roped. The hydraulic ram includes a single-acting cylinder, piston and yoke that are placed within the hoistway adjacent to the path of motion of an elevator car. The counterweight is positioned adjacent to the hydraulic ram and on the same side of the car as the hydraulic ram. The combination of the directly counterweighted hydraulic ram and the arrangement of the hydraulic ram, counterweight and car results in minimal power and space requirements.