WO2020142001A1

WO2020142001A1 - A moveable platform

Info

Publication number: WO2020142001A1
Application number: PCT/SG2019/050607
Authority: WO
Inventors: Lai WENG CHUEN; Kwek CHENG HWA
Original assignee: Em Services Pte Ltd
Priority date: 2019-01-04
Filing date: 2019-12-10
Publication date: 2020-07-09

Abstract

The present invention relates to an apparatus and a method, and in particular but not exclusively, to a moveable platform and method for operating the moveable platform along a passageway. The moveable platform comprises at least two platforms supported on the passageway by load-bearing devices. An actuator connects the platforms, and is configured to be extendable and retractable to move the platforms between an extended position and a retracted position. When in operation, the actuator cooperates with the load-bearing devices to transport the moveable platform along the passageway. The movement of the platform may be coordinated by providing a micro-controller. Advantageously, the moveable platform can move along the passageway without the use of ropes or hoist.

Description

A MOVEABLE PLATFORM

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention relates to an apparatus and method relating to a moveable platform, and in particular but not exclusively, a moveable platform and method for operating the moveable platform along a passageway.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

The following discussion of the background to the invention is intended to facilitate an understanding of the present invention. However, it should be appreciated that the discussion is not an acknowledgement or admission that any of the material referred to was published, known or part of the common general knowledge in any jurisdiction as at the priority date of the application.

Traditional elevator systems utilize hoisting ropes to suspend an elevator car in the elevator shaft to move from floor to floor. The ropes are driven via a traction arrangement with a drive machine and drive sheave fixed at the top of the elevator shaft for moving the elevator car. As these elevator systems are predominantly cable driven, their implementation is dependent on the use of a platform or anchoring points to secure the traction machine. In most cases, the platform or anchoring point cannot be provided in an elevator shaft undergoing construction due to the need for a structurally sound anchor to support the overall load. As such, elevator installation can only be permitted when the building is capped. Installation of the lift is through the means of permanent platforms erected inside the lift shaft such as scaffolding or using suspended platform incorporating a hoisting mechanism such as a gondola deployed inside the lift shaft.

Existing elevator solutions attempt to free up the reliance on the capping of the building before lift installation work can commence by having a temporary machine room to anchor the hoist or traction machine. In this case, the temporary machine room can be removed and hoisted to higher number of new floors which have been completed. However, these systems can be costly and time-consuming to employ due to their installing and dismantling. Further, it could be challenging to provide support for the temporary machine room and hoisting all equipment required and can increase utilisation of usable space that further limits the elevator installation.

Self-propelled elevator systems have been introduced in attempting to address these issues associated with the use of hoist. Such arrangements often require the use of specialized elevator components, such as guide rails, sheave arrangements, climbing brackets, among many others, which can be complex and usually results in lengthy installation times. In some cases, even the core structure of the building may require alteration in order to install the elevator system, which in turn could be detrimental to the overall structural integrity of the building. Accordingly, the need for such specialized equipment or structural alteration increases the associated costs for installing the elevator systems.

Therefore, there is a need for a cost-effective, efficient moveable apparatus and method to address the aforementioned disadvantages in existing lift installation systems. The invention seeks to provide a moveable apparatus and method for installing an elevator that is simple and versatile and may be used as a self-climbing system.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Throughout this document, unless otherwise indicated to the contrary, the terms “comprising”,“consisting of’, and the like, are to be construed as non-exhaustive, or in other words, as meaning“including, but not limited to”.

In accordance with a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a moveable platform for use in a passageway. The moveable platform comprises a first platform and a second platform engageable to a passageway by load-bearing members. A first set of load-bearing members provided on the first platform and a second set of load- bearing members provided on the second platform. The load-bearing members are configured to engage a surface of the passageway for maintaining the platforms in position, and are disengageble from the surface to allow movement.

The first platform and the second platform are connected by at least one actuator. The actuator comprises an arm, which is extendable and retractable to move the first and second platforms relative to each other. The actuator operates cooperatively with the load- bearing member to move the platforms between an extended position and a retracted position, whereby at least one platform remains engaged to the passageway when the arm extends or retracts. Advantageously, the moveable platform can move along the passageway without the use of ropes or hoist, and does not require implementation of temporary machine room. In addition, the moveable platform for elevator installation does not require the use of specialized guide rails or customized components.

The actuator operates the arm which is extendable and retractable, which in turn moves the first platform and the second platform relative to each other. The actuator can move a platform to an extended position when the actuator is extended; and to a retracted position when the actuator is retracted. The extended position and the retracted position can be adjustable by selecting the appropriate operating stroke of the actuator.

In use, the first set of load-bearing members disengage from the surface, enabling the first platform to move to the extended position when the actuator extends, and at the extended position, the first set of load-bearing members engage the surface for maintaining the first platform in the extended position. The second set of load-bearing members disengage from the surface, enabling the second platform to move to the retracted position when the actuator retracts, and at the retracted position, the second set of load-bearing members engage the surface for maintaining the second platform in the retracted position.

The extended position may comprise the first platform moving away from the second platform. The retracted position may comprise the first platform moving towards the second platform.

Preferably, the actuator is of the form comprising any one of the following: hydraulic, pneumatic, mechanical, electric, electro -mechanical.

Preferably, load-bearing members comprise any one or more of the following: pawl devices, safety gears or clamps. The load-bearing members are secured by support elements along the passageway.

Preferably, the support elements comprise mounted fixtures provided spaced apart along the passageway. There is provided a micro-controller configured to coordinate the movements between the extended position and the retracted position. A separate electrical source is provided to power the micro-controller.

Preferably, guide shoes are provided on the first platform and the second platform for guided movement.

The first platform and the second platform can comprise one or more of the following: an elevator car, multi-tiered platform and scaffolding.

In accordance with a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method for operating a moveable platform. The method comprises the steps of positioning a first platform and a second platform against at least one surface of the passageway by means of load-bearing members. The first platform and the second platform are connected by at least one actuator comprising an arm configured to be extendable and retractable. The actuator is configured to move the platforms between an extended position and a retracted position. The method comprises disengaging the load-bearing members to allow the first platform to be moveable; extending the arm by activating the actuator to move the first platform to the extended position; engaging the first platform at the extended position by means of the load-bearing members; retracting the arm to move the second platform to the retracted position; engaging the surface at the retracted position by the load-bearing members. The steps are repeated to move the first platform and the second platform between the extended and retracted positions along the passageway by means of the actuator.

Preferably, one of the platforms remains engaged to the passageway when the moveable platform is in operation.

Preferably, extending the arm of the actuator enables one of the platforms to move away from the other platform. Retracting the arm of the actuator enables one of the platforms to move towards the other platform.

An extended catch portion of the load-bearing members is supported on support elements provided along the passageway for securing the load-bearing members thereon.

The extended positions and the retracted positions are coordinated to enable movements of the first platform or the second platform. In accordance with a third aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method for installing an elevator in an elevator comprising mounting a moveable apparatus in the elevator shaft, wherein the moveable platform comprises a first platform and a second platform, an actuator operatively coupled to the first platform and the second platform, wherein the actuator comprises an arm that is extendable and retractable. The method comprises moving the first platform and the second platform along the elevator shaft by actuating the arm between extended positions and retracted positions to reach a mounting point for performing elevator installation.

Preferably, during the elevator installation, a first set of guide rail sections is mounted along the passageway for guiding the moveable platform. Additional sets of guide rail sections are mounted along the passageway that align with the first set of guide rail sections for moving the moveable platform along the additional sets of guide rail sections. Advantageously, the moveable apparatus can be moved along the guide rail sections while additional guide rail sections are being mounted along the passageway for elevator installation with progressing construction of the building structure.

In accordance with a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a moveable platform system for elevator installation, comprising: a passageway provided with a plurality of support elements; a first platform and a second platform; an operating mechanism to provide relative movement between the first platform and the second platform, the operating mechanism comprising: an actuator coupled to the platforms, and configured to be extendable and retractable for moving the platforms relative to each other; a plurality of load bearing members provided on each of the ends of the platforms, the pawl devices are configured to be supported on the plurality of support fixtures along the passageway; wherein in operation, the operating mechanism is operable to cause the moveable platform to perform the steps as set out in the second aspect of the invention. Preferably, the load bearing members are operable electro-mechanically or mechanically.

The present invention has at least the following advantages:

The present invention does not require the use of hoists or ropes for elevator installation. Furthermore, implementation of a temporary machine room is not required, hence simplifying the installation process. Advantageously, this reduces installation time and associated costs for installation and maintenance of elevator systems.

2. The present invention reduces reliance on the structure of the building being constructed to enable independent installation of elevator. Accordingly, this reduces/eliminates the need for additional reinforcements on wall sections of the hoistway, and stabilization means for its set up. This reduces any undesirable interruption and wait time, hence increases efficiency in construction and shortens the set-up time.

3. The present invention advantageously enables use of an elevating platform system even when a passageway or elevator hoistway is still under construction by providing permanent and/or temporary support mounts for guiding the platforms up the passageway. Furthermore, this enables engagement of the platforms with the passageway when gripping effect on the surface of the passageway is insufficient for holding the platforms in place.

4. The present invention provides a highly effective method of installing an elevator in an elevator shaft, whereby no dedicated cantilever working platform is provided, as the present working platform is used to move the lift car frame. Furthermore, the installation process is simplified whereby the guide rails are installed successively as the lift car frame is being lifted along the elevator shaft, which results in easy installation of the rope on the lift. 5. The present invention can be easily adapted to allow more than one moving platform to be installed in the same lift shaft, which advantageously increases the lifting efficiency of the moveable platform. Furthermore, simultaneous operation by multiple work teams may be carried out on each of the multiple moving platforms, which increases work efficiency.

Other aspects and advantages of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from a review of the ensuing description, which proceeds with reference to the following illustrative drawings of various embodiments of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

The present invention will now be described, by way of illustrative example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, of which:

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a moveable platform in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2A and 2B are schematic diagrams of the moveable platform of FIG. 1, illustrating the mounting of guide shoes on the first and second platform.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of the moveable platform in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of the moveable platform, illustrating the operating mechanism in which the catch on the pawl devices retract for ascending operation.

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of the moveable platform of FIG. 3, in which the catch on the pawl devices extend for engaging the first platform to the guide rails at the desired level at a higher position.

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of the moveable platform of FIG.3 in which the catch of the pawl devices retracts to disengage and mobilize the second platform.

FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of the moveable platform of FIG. 3, in which both the first and the second platforms have reached the desired level at the higher position.

FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of the moveable platform according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of the moveable platform of FIG. 3, in which the working platform is configured to carry a scaffold.

FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of the moveable platform of FIG. 3, in which the working platform is configured to carry a lift car cage and a scaffold.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Particular embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. Additionally, unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meanings as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs.

The use of the singular forms“a”,“an”, and“the” include both singular and plural referents unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The use of“or”,

means“and/or” unless stated otherwise. Furthermore, the use of terms“including” and“having” as well as other forms of those terms, such as“includes”, “included”,“has”, and“have” are not limiting.

A surface can be any surface of the passageway.

With reference to Figure 1, there is described an exemplary embodiment of a moveable platform 10 in a passageway. The moveable platform comprises a first platform 11 and a second platform 12, each platform provided with load-bearing members 15 at each end to engage to the passageway, and an actuator 13 configured to be extendable and retractable to move the first platform 11 and the second platform 12. The moveable platform 10 may comprise a micro-controller configured to coordinate the movements between the extended position and the retracted position. Guide shoes

As shown in Figure 1, the moveable platform 10 comprises a first platform 11 and a second platform 12 located below the first platform 11. Load-bearing members are provided for engaging the first platform 11 and the second platform 12 to the passageway. One or more load-bearing members may attach to each end of the first platform 11 and the second platform 12, for stabilizing and maintaining the movable platform 10 in position along the passageway. The passageway can be an elevator shaft, a walled structure provided with elevator guiderails, a walled structure, a structure having arcuate sides, and the like.

Load-bearing members 15 are provided on the first platform 11 and the second platform 12 to engage the surface of the passageway. One or more load-bearing members 15 attach to each end of the first platform 11 and each end of the second platform 12, for engaging the surface of the passageway. The load-bearing members 15 may be installed on or fixed to each ends of the platforms. The load-bearing members 15 disengage from the surface to allow movement of the platforms. The load-bearing members 15 may be operable electro-mechanically or mechanically. Advantageously, the load-bearing members 15 may removably mount and render the working platform moveable. The load-bearing members 15 may dismount for supporting the working platform at a particular position on the passageway. The figures show that the load-bearing members 15 are provided on the platforms in pairs. However, it will be appreciated that other numbers of load-bearing members 15 may also be employed. The load-bearing member 15 includes a clamp, a pawl device, or restraint for locating the surface of the passageway.

According to embodiments, pawl devices may be mounted for lateral support on a walled structure. The pawl devices may also be brought into engagement with receiving means provided on the passageway. Recesses of the passageway, for example, a wall section mounted with guide rail sections, or recesses already erected in the passageway may be provided to receive an extended portion of the pawl device. Alternatively, pawl devices may engage with mounted projections provided along the passageway. The pawl device includes an extendable catch portion to be supported by the projections.

As illustrated in Figure 1, an actuator 13 couples to the first platform 11 and the second platform 12. The actuator 13 comprises an arm 14 that connects the first platform 11 to, and spaces from, the second platform 12. The arm 14 is extendable and retractable for moving the platforms relative to each other, for example, it is possible to vary the elevation of the first platform 11 with respect to the second platform 12. The actuator 13 is operable to extend and retract the arm 14 for controlling the movement of the platforms. Advantageously, the moveable apparatus 10 operates without the use of hoists or ropes for transporting along the passageway. The actuator 13 is rated to individually carry the entire weight of the workable load, including structural loads. The lifting capacity of the actuator 13 may be selected based on the loads to be undertaken by the moveable platform 10. An actuator 13 such as a hydraulic jack, pneumatic jack, mechanical jack, electro-mechanical jack or worm gear screw jack can be provided to operate the extendable arm 14, which in turn causes the platform to be transported along the passageway. Furthermore, the maximum raise of the actuator 13 can determine the distance for which the moveable platform 10 can move with elongation of the arm 14. It would be appreciated that additional actuators 13 may be deployed between landings to improve the lifting capacity. For example, the combination of deploying multiple actuators 13 between platform landings and installing multiple platforms further increases the lifting efficiency.

The actuator 13 is operable to move the platforms between an extended position and a retracted position by extending or retracting the arm 14, such that one of the platforms remains engaged to the passageway (i.e. immobilized) at any one time. In the extended position the distance between the platforms increases, for example, the first platform 11 moves away from the second platform 12. The second platform 12 may also move away from the first platform 11 when in the extended position. In the retracted position the distance between the platforms decreases, for example, the first platform 11 moves towards the second platform 12. Similarly, the second platform 12 may move towards the first platform 11 when in the retracted position.

The movement of the apparatus will be described in more detail below with particular reference to Figures 3 to 9. The operation of the apparatus involves a sequence of steps that alternates between releasing/retrieving the catch portion of pawl devices rendering the platform to be moveable, and extending/retracting of the arm 14 to move the platform. The movement of the platforms may be coordinated. A micro-controller may be used to coordinate the operation between the pawl devices and the actuator 13 for transportation along the passageway. The micro-controller may also be used to regulate the speed of extending or retracting of the arm 14 with respect to the operation of the pawl devices, which in turn, may be used to regulate the speed at which the moveable apparatus 10 ascends or descends. The rate at which the arm 14 extends or retracts determines the travel speed of the moveable platform 10. Therefore, the extending/retracting of the arm 14 may be configured by the actuator 13 according to the travel speed and intended use of the moveable platform 10. A micro-controller such as an external control or a control unit may also be provided to support at least part of the control and electric operating equipment of the apparatus.

The moveable platform 10 may further comprise sliding guide elements for guiding the first platform 11 and the second platform 12. Guide shoes and other sliding guide elements may be provided for smooth conveying. The guide shoes may be installed respectively on both ends of the platforms (see Figures 2A and 2B), so the overall mobility of the moveable platform 10 may be increased. The guide shoes fixed on the platforms are advantageous for preventing the platform from deviating or swinging when moving up and down along guide rails installed on the passageway.

The passageway may be an elevator shaft arranged with guide rail structures, a walled structure or any surface provided with guides that define the path for movement along the passageway. Accordingly, guide rail structures may be mounted along the passageway for stabilizing the moveable platform 10 during use in the passageway. The moveable platform 10 may be directed to move up and down while being engaged to the guide rail structure. In an embodiment, modular sections of guide rails may be installed such that a first set of guide rail sections is installed, and after upward movement of moveable platform 10 along the first set of guide rail sections, additional set of guide rail sections are installed on the previously installed first set of guide rail sections. The additional set of guide rail sections is in vertical alignment with the previous set of guide rails sections. Together, these guide rail sections constitute the guide rails structure.

In addition, mounted guides (or support fixtures) may be provided to support the pawl devices on the surface of the passageway, and prevent downward displacement. These may be mounted along the passageway, spaced vertically apart for defining each level in a building. The support fixtures 16 may be used for temporary fixing to the surface of the passageway. The support fixtures 16 are advantageous in that the guide rails may not be necessary, e.g when the guide rails are not yet installed in the elevator shaft, as the support fixtures may provide sufficient support during the installation process. The support fixtures 16 may be arranged for mounting to the surface of the passageway, using for example, bolts, or the like. Alternatively, these support fixtures 16 may be pre-mounted on the surface of the passageway, without the need for bolts or other fixings. The support fixtures 16 may include mounted projections or brackets, pre-cast fixing elements during lift shaft construction, and the like.

In at least one arrangement, the support fixtures 16 may allow the pawl devices on the platforms to be seated securely thereon, maintaining the platforms secure in their desired spaced relationship. During the displacement of the working platform, the pawl devices of the platform are brought into engagement with the support fixtures 16. Consequently, the displacement of the working platform is prevented (e.g. immovable downwardly), thereby securing the moveable platform 10 in place.

The moveable platform is also advantageous for installation in which it is not required for pre-mounted fixtures to the building structure, thereby saving the time for mounting the building structure surfaces. By mounting support fixtures 16 that are spaced vertically apart along the passageway, the moveable platform 10 may be guided along an intended route. The support fixtures 16 may also be removably mounted to the passageway, and dismounted after use. Therefore, it is possible to operate the moveable platform without the need for a fully constructed elevator shaft.

The first platform 11 can be a working platform for use to carry loads such as installation fixtures and other elevator components, humans, etc. The working platform is configured to carry a lift scaffold (in Figure 9) and a lift car cage and a scaffold (in Figure 10) for lift installation. The first platform 11 may provide a working area for elevator installation. The first platform 11 may also include a lift car cage, a multi-tiered platform, scaffolding, etc. The second platform 12 may be a support platform for supporting the working platform, and any loading to be placed on the working platform. The second platform 12 may be a metal beam, a lift car cage, etc. There is a further benefit for reduced cost of construction when the second platform is an I-beam. It will be appreciated that other number of platforms may also be deployed in a multiple-decking configuration. For example, by mounting additional components of the apparatus 10, the platforms 11, 12, the pawl devices, the actuator 13 to the apparatus. This advantageously increases the lifting efficiency of the moveable platform 10. The moveable apparatus 10 may be deployed for carrying goods e.g. a freight elevator, or for carrying passengers. Figure 3 illustrates an exemplary implementation of the moveable apparatus 10, being positioned in a lift shaft provided with a set of elevator guide rails (not shown). The moveable platform 10 comprises a first platform 11 and a second platform 12. An operating mechanism is operable for transporting the moveable platform 10 along the lift shaft. The operating mechanism comprises at least one actuator 13, the actuator 13 comprising an arm 14 that is extendable and retractable for moving the first and second platforms. The operating mechanism further comprises pawl devices 15 extending from both ends of the first platform 11 and the second platform 12. The pawl devices 15 operate cooperatively with the actuator 13 for transporting the platforms along the lift shaft. A plurality of guides (referred to herein as support fixtures or guide fixtures) are mounted along the lift shaft for positioning and securing the platforms, thereby preventing downward of the moveable apparatus 10.

A pair of actuators 13 are coupled to the first and second platforms. The actuator 13 is operable to move the platforms, by extending and retracting the arm 14. The actuator 13 moves each platform between an extended position and a retracted position. Disposed on the sides of the first and second platforms are pawl devices 15 to engage the guide fixtures 16. A control unit (not shown) can be optionally provided for operating the moveable platform 10. For example, coordinating movement by elongating/retracting the arm 14, extending/retrieving the catch portion on the pawl devices 15.

Referring now to Figures 3 to 10, the operation of the moveable platform 10 will now be described. The first platform 11 and the second platform 12 are positioned along the passageway and spaced apart by the arm 14 of the actuator 13. The extended portions of the pawl devices 15 are supported on the support fixtures 16. Once the moveable platform apparatus 10 is levelled in place, the apparatus is ready to move. Moving the moveable platform 10 along the passageway may be achieved by successive operation steps of the operating mechanism.

Firstly, the pawl devices 15 on the first platform 11 disengage from the passageway guide fixtures 16 by retrieving the extended catch portion. The pawl devices 15 disengage from the guide fixtures 16 which mobilizes the first platform 11. The first platform 11 can then move past the guide fixtures 16 without being obstructed.

Secondly, the first platform 11 moves upwardly along the passageway, to an upper position along the passageway. By extending the arm 14, the first platform 11 moves to an extended position, whereby the first platform 11 moves away from the second platform 12 (Figure 4). Thirdly, the first platform 11 engages the guide fixtures 16 at the extended position to immobilize the first platform 11. At the extended position, the pawl devices 15 of the first platform 11 are supported on guide fixtures 16 by resting the extended catch portion of the pawl devices 15 on the guide fixtures 16.

The first platform 11 is moved to the upper level while the second platform 12 remains engaged at the lower level as shown in Figure 5. At this position, users may carry out work at the first platform 11, for example, lift installation works or loading/unloading. Alternatively, the platforms may be arranged to move continuously in order to reach a certain height along the platform, which will be described in more detail with reference to Figures 6 and 7.

Figure 5 illustrates that the working platform descends to the lower level e.g. after installation or loading/unloading completes. First, the pawl devices 15 on the first platform disengages from the guide fixtures 16 so that the first platform 11 becomes mobile. The mobile first platform 11 moves downwardly by retracting the arms 14. Secondly, the first platform 11 may be held in place at the lower level by supporting the pawl devices 15 on the guide fixtures 16. It would be appreciated that the moveable platform 10 may be held in place at any desired position along the passageway, and can make any stops along the passageway to engage with the guide fixtures 16 that are mounted on the passageway. This is particularly advantageous for providing logistics support for use in a passageway where guiding elements such as guide rails may not be readily provided.

The moveable platform 10 can cover a distance that is based on the maximum raise of the actuator 13 in a single raise. In some cases, where a single raise of the actuator 13 may not be sufficient for covering an intended distance at a higher level, multiple raise of the actuator 13 may be necessary to continuously move the platforms to cover the intended distance.

Referring now to Figures 6 and 7, the second platform 12 may also move upwardly to meet the first platform 11 at the upper level. Firstly, the pawl devices 15 disposed on the sides of the second platform 12 disengage from the guide fixtures 16 to mobilize the second platform 12. The pawl devices 15 are configured to retract the extended catch portion resting on the guide fixtures 16. Secondly, the second platform 12 moves upwardly to the upper position. By retracting the arm 14, the second platform 12 moves to a retracted position, whereby the second platform 12 moves towards the first platform 11.

Thirdly, the second platform 12 is supported at the upper position by supporting the pawl devices 15 on the guide fixtures 16. The catch portion of the pawl devices 15 is released so as to be supported on the guide fixtures 16.

By repeating the steps above for upward movement of the first platform 11 followed by the second platform 12, the moveable apparatus can elevate to a mounting point e.g. the top of the passageway. At the mounting point, elevator installation may be carried out by constructing the counterweight frame, followed by rope installation. This provides an overall installation process is simplified

It is possible to provide further guide rail sections to further extend the guide rails. The moveable apparatus 10 can be moved along a first guide rail sections and further guide rail sections mounted in alignment, which extends the guide rails. Upward movement of the moveable apparatus 10 can continue, and further guide rail sections may be mounted, as required. It is possible to transport the lift car frame by the working platform, and at the same time, extend the guide rails, which leads to time savings and a simplified installation process whereby the pre-installation of the entire guide rails can be avoided. As such, sections of guide rails can be installed while moving the car cage to the top of the lift shaft. At the lift pit, the counterweight can then be constructed, followed by rope installation. This effectively shortens the set-up time for lift installation, which in turn leads to lower cost with shorter-cycle of lift installation.

During the movement of the moveable apparatus, it is also possible to mount additional guide fixtures 16 at an upper position, on which the mounted additional guide fixtures are adapted for engagement to pawl devices 15 to enable the moveable apparatus 10 to move vertically upwards. Additional guide fixtures may be mounted by fixing additional guide fixtures arranged vertically above previous guide fixtures 16.

In an embodiment of the present invention as illustrated in Figure 8, the moveable platform 10 engages the passageway on one end by means of pawl devices 15. The moveable platform 10 comprises a first platform 11 and a second platform 12. The first platform 11 and the second platform 12 couple to an actuator 13 comprising an arm 14, which is extendable and retractable. The actuator 13 is operable to extend and retract its arm 14 to move between an extended position and retracted positions. On same end of the first and second platforms are arranged one or more pawl devices 15 for engaging to a surface. Pawl devices 15 are secured on support fixtures 16 mounted along the passageway. An application of this configuration includes using the moveable platform 10 on an external building structure, or where only one support structure (i.e. wall) is available. It is possible to provide a transport means (e.g. transporting workers, materials or equipment) when construction of a passageway is still under way, where the support structure may not be fully constructed. In another embodiment of the present invention as illustrated in Figure 9, the moveable platform 10 can be configured to carry a lift car frame to enable easy and convenient installation of hoisting ropes on the lift. This specific configuration eliminates the step of hoisting the counterweight frame to the top of the lift shaft, which advantageously does without the need for an anchoring point from the roof of a fully constructed building or lift shaft when installing the counterweight frame. Furthermore, the present invention promotes efficient use of workspace at the top landing which would otherwise be occupied by a cantilever platform to facilitate hoisting the counterweight frame.

In another embodiment of the present invention as illustrated in Figure 10, the moveable platform 10 can be configured to enable more than one working platform in the same lift shaft. Preferably, each working platform is configured to serve different landings. Advantageously, this increases the lifting efficiency of the moveable platform 10 for transportation of goods and the like.

It is to be understood that the above embodiments have been provided by way of exemplification of this invention, and that further modifications and improvements thereto, as would be apparent to persons skilled in the relevant art, are deemed to fall within the broad scope and ambit of the present scope and ambit of the present invention described herein. It is further to be understood that features from one or more of the described embodiments may be combined to form further embodiments.

Claims

1. A moveable apparatus, comprising: a first platform and a second platform; a first set of load-bearing members provided on the first platform and a second set of load-bearing members provided on the second platform, the load-bearing members configured to engage a surface of a passageway for maintaining the platforms in position, wherein the load-bearing members are disengageable from the surface to allow movement; an actuator coupled to the first platform and the second platform, the actuator configured to be extendable and retractable for moving the first platform and the second platform relative to each other, wherein when extended the actuator is configured to move the platforms to an extended position, and when retracted the actuator is configured to move the platforms to a retracted position; wherein in use, the first set of load-bearing members disengage from the surface, enabling the first platform to move to the extended position when the actuator extends, and at the extended position, the first set of load-bearing members engage the surface for maintaining the first platform in the extended position; and the second set of load-bearing members disengage from the surface, enabling the second platform to move to the retracted position when the actuator retracts, and at the retracted position, the second set of load-bearing members engage the surface for maintaining the second platform in the retracted position.

2. The moveable apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the extended position comprises the first platform moving away from the second platform.

3. The moveable apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the retracted position comprises the first platform moving towards the second platform.

4. The moveable apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the actuator is of the form comprising any one of the following: hydraulic, pneumatic, mechanical, electric, electro mechanical.

5. The moveable apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the load-bearing members comprise any one or more of the following: pawl devices, safety gears or clamps.

6. The moveable apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the load-bearing members are secured by support elements along the passageway.

7. The moveable apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the support elements comprise mounted fixtures provided spaced apart along the passageway.

8. The moveable apparatus according to claim 1 to 3, further comprising a micro-controller configured to coordinate the movements between the extended position and the retracted position.

9. The moveable apparatus according to claim 8, further comprising an electrical source to power the micro-controller.

10. The moveable apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising guide shoes provided on the first platform and the second platform for guided movement.

11. The moveable apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the platforms comprise one or more of the following: an elevator car, multi-tiered platform and scaffolding.

12. A method for operating a moveable apparatus, the moveable apparatus comprising: a first platform and a second platform; a first set of load-bearing members provided on the first platform and a second set of load-bearing members provided on the second platform, the load-bearing members configured to engage a surface of a passageway; and an actuator operatively coupled to the first platform and second platform, wherein the actuator is configured to move the platforms between an extended position and a retracted position; the method comprising:

(i) disengaging the first set of load-bearing members to enable the first platform to be moveable;

(ii) extending the actuator to move the first platform to an extended position;

(iii) engaging the surface by the first set of load-bearing members for maintaining the first platform at the extended position;

(iv) disengaging the second set of load-bearing members to enable the second platform to be moveable;

(v) retracting the actuator to move the second platform to the retracted position;

(vi) engaging the surface by the second set of load-bearing members for maintaining the second platform at the retracted position;

(vii) repeating operational steps (i) to (vi) for moving first platform and the second platform along the passageway.

13. The method of operation according to claim 12, wherein extending the actuator comprises moving the first platform away from the second platform.

14. The method of operation according to claim 12, wherein retracting the actuator comprises moving the first platform towards the second platform.

15. The method of operation according to claim 12, further comprising supporting an extended catch portion of the load-bearing members for securing the load-bearing members on support elements provided along the passageway.

16. The method of operation according to any of claims 12 to 15, further comprising coordinating movements between the extended positions and the retracted positions to enable movement of the first platform or the second platform.