EP4353658A1 - Method for assembling a modular track device and device and use - Google Patents

Abstract

With guideway devices, it is important to ensure a good compromise between standardization and variability, in particular with regard to the support structure. According to the invention, a modular concept is provided both with regard to the structural design and with regard to the assembly process relating to the entire support structure of the guideway device, whereby by providing and connecting at least two longitudinal section modules of the guideway device, which is provided in a modular configuration with at least three separate longitudinal section modules consisting of two head modules and at least one intermediate module, a connection/marriage of load-bearing support structures of the longitudinal section modules of at least one of the head modules, in particular initially the intended lower head module, takes place in an orientation and/or arrangement that matches the orientation/arrangement of the support structure of the at least one intermediate module, in particular with the platform section of the (respective) head module in a horizontal orientation. This can also ensure good accessibility and ergonomics up to the final assembly phase. The invention further relates to a corresponding guideway device.

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

The present invention relates to a method for assembling a modular guideway device by providing and connecting at least two longitudinal section modules of the guideway device, wherein the guideway device is provided in a modular configuration with at least three separate longitudinal section modules consisting of two head modules and at least one intermediate module, wherein the modules are advantageously arranged relative to one another and then connected to one another. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a guideway device with a structural design of the support structure that is correspondingly coordinated with this method, in particular with regard to module-specific support of the support structure on the ground. Last but not least, the present invention also relates to the use of assembly aids optimized for the modular construction and process on an assembly line that is preferably provided or usable for numerous of the assembly steps. In particular, the invention relates to a device and a method according to the preamble of the respective independent claim.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

When constructing escalators and similar passenger transport systems, on the one hand a comparatively high level of flexibility and variability is desired in both the design and process aspects, while on the other hand the provision/consideration of standardization is necessary in view of the manufacturing costs, particularly in connection with the large quantities required in individual cases. This also applies in particular to the load-bearing support structure of escalators.

Until now, the time required to manufacture each escalator was comparatively large, particularly in connection with several consecutive assembly and disassembly processes, for example with regard to test runs, running-in, exact positioning and alignment, adjustment of installation components, transportability and installation options for the entire escalator on site or other similar boundary conditions. Such intermediate steps have previously been required more often in the course of the value chain than would be desired or expedient for an efficient value creation process. This has also previously meant a comparatively large amount of space required for handling and (intermediate) storage of the escalators or the components and semi-finished products intended for this purpose. This has also had a noticeable negative impact on the goal of a process that is as lean as possible and a cost-efficient and variable escalator design, and these disadvantages have not yet been easily overcome.

For example, when assembling escalators or their components in/on the escalator, the components to be assembled in the head areas of the escalator must usually be installed in an inclined position of the head areas, especially if the supporting structure of the escalator has already been created and is present over the entire intended length of the escalator and the angular alignment of an intermediate section between the head modules relative to the head modules is already predefined, i.e. if the intended gradient/inclination of the escalator has already been structurally implemented. A large part of the assembly/installation measures usually take place in this state, with corresponding requirements for cranes, support arms or similar assembly aids designed for large loads.

The disadvantages and the high level of effort described here arise primarily in connection with the creation of the load-bearing support structure of escalators, which is usually constructed in a truss-like manner at least in sections on the side planes, whereby attempts are made to make the connection of individual load-bearing components as efficient as possible using at least partially automated processes, usually using several consecutive joining devices. The fact that it is not trivial to reduce the complexity is shown in particular by the efforts required in connection with arranging and aligning the components as precisely as possible and with minimal tolerances.

Examples include the publications EP 3 426 588 B1 and EP 3 426 589 B1 which each describe a device and a method for producing a passenger transport system based on several joining steps. Furthermore, the EP 3 724 118 B1 which indicate measures intended to facilitate order picking or other measures preparatory to production or the production process, particularly in the case of escalators.

According to the state of the art, it is usually necessary to adapt the assembly process to a relatively high degree for each individual design of an escalator. On the one hand, there is an interest in minimizing this type/application-related effort, but on the other hand, based on the state of the art, there is also a need for easier standardization of manufacturing steps, even in connection with individual assembly steps or a need for more general, pre-definable workflows along the process chain up to the fully assembled/built escalator. Last but not least, particularly with regard to the flexibility and complexity of the workflows, there is also interest in a process that is as safe and reliable as possible and that can be implemented in a simple manner largely independent of local conditions or the mechanical equipment of a production facility.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The task is to provide a method and a corresponding device or structural design with which escalators or general guideway devices can be assembled as simply as possible, particularly with regard to final assembly. It is also the task to design a concept for the process flow in the manufacture of guideway devices with the simplest and most standardizable assembly/assembly process possible, so that the guideway devices can be manufactured with the highest possible standardization and with the greatest possible efficiency on the one hand and with the highest possible variability and with the highest possible accuracy on the other.

This object is achieved by a method according to claim 1 and by a device according to the independent device claim. Advantageous further developments of the invention are explained in the respective subclaims. The features of the embodiments described below can be combined with one another, unless this is explicitly stated otherwise.

A method is provided for assembling a modular guideway device by providing and connecting at least two longitudinal section modules of the guideway device with a coordinated arrangement and alignment of the longitudinal section modules relative to one another, wherein the guideway device is provided in a modular configuration with at least three separate longitudinal section modules consisting of two head modules and at least one intermediate module, wherein before carrying out the connection/marriage of load-bearing support structures of the longitudinal section modules (final assembly of the support structures provided in modules to form the entire support structure of the guideway device), the support structure of at least one of the head modules, in particular initially the intended lower head module, is arranged in an orientation and/or arrangement that matches the orientation/arrangement of the support structure of the at least one intermediate module (which is preferably aligned horizontally) and optionally also aligned (in particular in connection with previous or simultaneously at the time of the respective relative position of the respective module carried out individual module-by-module assembly measures on individual longitudinal section modules), in particular with its end section/platform section in a horizontal orientation. This also promotes a high degree of process variability and enables the realization of a process-related mirroring of a modular constructive concept also in process or procedural terms up to a phase of final assembly. According to the invention, it is therefore proposed that the assembly is initially carried out module by module and in the process coordinated with the module-specific, optimizable installation/assembly of further components in the respective module, whereby the individual modules can already be arranged in an advantageous orientation in this phase (i.e. before final assembly), namely in such a way that final assembly or the connection of the individual modules to one another can then take place without great handling effort.

The individual modules are advantageously provided or kept in a horizontal orientation (in the case of the head modules, this means with the end section or platform section in a horizontal orientation). Not only is the equipping of the modules with built-in components advantageous in such a horizontal orientation of the corresponding longitudinal section to be equipped, but also the application of sheet metal connections which are intended to connect adjacent support structures to one another, in particular in the case of sheet metal connections which preferably act as a force-fit connection and which are applied using screws or locking ring bolt connections (or rivets), for example exclusively manually with a manually applied assembly tool.

In particular, in connection with the realization that guideway devices can be manufactured or assembled in a particularly advantageous manner in a modular or module-by-module manner (at least as far as the installation of further installation components in the support structure is concerned), the present invention provides an advantageous process and an advantageous device design for downstream steps relating to the assembly of all longitudinal section modules of the respective guideway device, in particular such that the respective longitudinal section module can be arranged in a predefined/predefinable manner with respect to the relative position to at least one further longitudinal section module (in particular with reference to several reference points provided for the specific module) and can also be connected or supported for this purpose in the further course of the assembly process, whereby a comparatively high degree of accuracy in positioning relative to one another can also be ensured. On the one hand, this makes it easier to handle and hold the individual modules, and on the other hand, it can also make the process of connecting/marrying modules in pairs easier. in particular when arranged in alignment on an assembly line from the time of completion of the module-specific equipment with built-in components such as a drive unit on the upper head module, in particular when (initially) the respective end section of the head modules is aligned horizontally and also when the intermediate module is aligned horizontally.

The concept according to the invention can therefore also be described as follows: Instead of assembling complete guideway devices (e.g. escalators), the separate assembly of longitudinal section modules offers considerable advantages, particularly in terms of ergonomics, occupational safety, assembly efficiency and space utilization. The process described here can minimize the effort required for handling and positioning the modules, particularly in a phase in which they are connected to form a complete unit (with the support structure then extending over the entire length of the guideway device). This does not diminish the positive aspects of modular assembly. The modules are preferably fed to a/the final assembly line in the correct orientation and order (particularly in the sense of provision "just in sequence" or accordingly correctly following one another); after separate/module-specific assembly of the modules, they are connected to one another in a longitudinal section module connection arrangement. This allows the handling effort to be noticeably minimized, especially with regard to positioning effort before connection (for example, the modules can be held in the same clamp or aligned very precisely with unchanged storage/support, e.g. by supporting them at module-specific integral reference points on the side walls of the respective support structure).

In the sense of the present disclosure, the general term "guideway device" refers primarily to escalator devices (in particular including moving walkways) and moving walkway devices (the latter in particular in a stepless design in an at least approximately flat alignment or with a negligible gradient) as well as related passenger transport devices with a continuously rotating transport device. A guideway device comprises, for example, segments or units forming the transport device, in particular steps or pallets, which are connected to driven chains or comparable drive means and guided in guide rails. The guide rails as well as a/the chain (or a comparable traction device) and other components of the guideway device are held, for example, within load-bearing constructions or support structures extending substantially laterally therefrom in the axial direction, which mostly consist of two opposite side wall units that are connected to one another via cross beams and optionally also a floor unit and can also include struts arranged in a lattice-like manner. The term "guideway device" also refers in particular to modularly constructed guideway devices that are modularly constructed from several longitudinal sections or longitudinal section modules, each with an individual or longitudinal section-specific support structure and can be assembled/mounted in modules.

In this respect, the guideway devices described here can also comprise moving walkway devices, i.e. guideway devices that are at least approximately horizontally aligned without steps but with individual guideway elements that are not intended to overcome an incline but form a largely flat route; in this respect, a reference to a bend or an inclined section is to be understood here to mean that the corresponding section is described largely independently of any incline actually realized.

In the sense of the present disclosure, the general term "assembly" or the more specific term "final assembly" generally refers to the assembly of the entire/complete support structure of the guideway device, which can also include all of the intended longitudinal section modules (two head modules and at least one intermediate module); this final assembly is also described here as a pairwise modular connection/marriage of the support structures of at least two longitudinal section modules, or at least comprising this connection step. Optionally, the term "assembly" can also include preparatory steps such as picking/providing/keeping components ready for a respective longitudinal section or module or for the entire guideway device; according to the present disclosure, the invention primarily relates to steps and aspects that are downstream of picking, i.e. do not include picking in the narrower sense.

In contrast, the term "modular assembly" (or synonymously "modular/modular/module-specific assembly") refers specifically to the assembly or assembly of only certain individual modules or their components in the corresponding module, for example specifically in the case of a head module, where, for example, components of a/the drive are installed in the upper head module, or guides, rails, cladding parts or components of the balustrade are (pre-)assembled in only one of the modules. Depending on the design of the manufacturing process, the assembly of components can take place at least partially in a phase in which the modules are still handled separately from one another, or in a phase in which the modules are already married to one another; this variation option concerns for example, the individual steps/pallets; in this respect, too, the use of the term "assembly" is not to be understood as restricting certain phases of the construction process of the complete guideway device or its supporting structure.

According to the present disclosure, "marrying" is to be understood as the process of finally fastening the individual modules to one another as part of the creation of the entire supporting structure of the complete guideway device.

The term "longitudinal section module" is to be understood in the sense of the present disclosure generally as a load-bearing longitudinal module of the guideway device, i.e. as a module that forms a longitudinal or length section of the guideway device and provides the support structure for it (i.e. a component of the guideway device in the corresponding length range that is at least structurally complete). This term therefore includes the terms "head module" and "intermediate module". The term "head module" refers to a module arranged at one of the ends of the guideway device and refers optionally to both types of head modules (upper and lower head module, also referred to as upper part and lower part); in this respect, this term can equally refer to the module at the upper or lower end of the guideway device. In guideway devices designed as escalators, head modules usually extend over one or the angle of inclination of the guideway device and thus span the bend or the transition from the inclined longitudinal section to the respective horizontal longitudinal section. In this context, the term "platform section" refers to the section of the respective head module that is aligned at least approximately in a horizontal plane in the intended arrangement; in this respect, when describing the arrangement/alignment of the respective head module, reference is also made to the alignment of this platform section (or its main extension plane), in particular if or when the absolute length of the platform section is greater than the absolute length of the inclined section. The "connecting inclined section" (also referred to as a stub in the specialist literature) is to be understood in particular as the inclined/inclined section intended for connecting/marrying with another longitudinal section module, and this inclined section can be more or less long depending on the function of the respective head module; this means that the individual modules are intended to be connected to one another in the area of a/the intended inclined longitudinal section; if several intermediate modules are provided, the intermediate modules are first connected/married to one another or the respective head module and intermediate module are first connected, depending on the procedural preference. The general term "longitudinal section" can optionally mean a Longitudinal section module or a specific longitudinal section, in particular of the head module (i.e. platform section or inclined section).

The even more general term "longitudinal section" compared to the term "longitudinal section module" refers, unless further specified, equally to the head sections and the at least one intermediate section and is used according to the present disclosure when modularity or a modular design or a strictly modular process is not necessarily required or can also be varied or modified according to the invention, or when reference is made to a process or a device-related state which is still prior to the intended modular construction of the individual modules, e.g. relating to connecting individual longitudinal sections of a head module to form the entire head module. In other words: If, according to the present disclosure, individual longitudinal sections are referred to without explicitly referring to them as longitudinal section modules, not only the individual modules but also longitudinal sections of an individual module can be affected, in particular a platform section (e.g. first longitudinal section) and an inclined section (e.g. second longitudinal section) of a head module, for which two sections a specific connection process can be provided (in particular in the area of the bend); For example, individual longitudinal sections of a module can be positioned relative to one another by means of form-fitting contours, e.g. in connection with a material-locking connection of these longitudinal sections to create the entire supporting structure of the respective module.

A/the support structure of a/the guideway device or of a/the respective module can essentially be formed by opposing side wall units and cross members (also referred to as crossbars) connecting them, wherein a/the side wall unit is formed by at least one side wall and in particular by an upper chord and/or a lower chord; the modular manufacturing process described here can also include the connection of a floor unit to the side wall units; however, it has been shown that such a floor unit does not necessarily have to fulfill a support function, but is designed, for example, with regard to the function of collecting oil from a/the drive and, if necessary, draining it, or is designed in an optimized manner with regard to a cover and/or accessibility from below to the support structure or the guideway device; in this respect, the floor unit is to be understood as an optional structural unit, which can also be functionally provided separately from the support structure, but which can optionally also take on an additional supporting load-bearing function if desired in individual cases.

The term "side wall" refers to a side structure which, for example, runs flat in only one side plane at least in sections, but is alternatively or additionally formed and/or reinforced at least in sections by profiles, struts or supports extending beyond one/the side plane. In general, the side wall is made up of structural elements or structural sections which, as flat structural sections, absorb forces in several directions and/or, as rod-shaped or strut-like structural parts/sections/elements, absorb the respective forces only along the longitudinal extension specified by the orientation (tension or compression); such components of the load-bearing structure can also be referred to by the English term "truss member" or "truss section", whereby according to the present disclosure, a truss-like structure does not necessarily have to be present; the term "truss" can nevertheless be considered appropriate here, because the side wall usually has a truss-like structure at least in sections, i.e. the force is to be transmitted in accordance with structurally predefined directions. The side wall is thus designed, for example, as a closed surface, as a pure framework or as a structure with parts (or sections) of closed surfaces and parts with a framework structure. Optionally, at least some of the load-bearing structural parts/sections of the side wall are made of flat material, in particular sheet metal, e.g. structurally flat sections or stiffening (in particular) curved L- or U-profile sections in the area of welded connections to other structural parts/elements/sections. According to the understanding of the present disclosure, a "side wall unit" comprises the side wall described here and belts associated with this side wall, in particular an upper belt and a lower belt, wherein the belts can be formed integrally with the side wall, integrated or separate from one another. These belts are alternatively also referred to as bands. The respective side wall/unit can also be understood as a side wall/unit provided in modules, depending on the reference to a/the respective phase of the manufacturing process of the individual modules or the entire guideway device. In this respect, the term side wall unit can refer to the entire side structure comprising the upper and lower chords, and the term side wall can refer to the side structure arranged between the upper and lower chords.

The terms upper chord and lower chord, which are also referred to together as chords, refer to structural parts/elements extending longitudinally in the area of an upper edge or a lower edge of the side wall or corresponding load-bearing sections for absorbing loads in the longitudinal direction of the guideway device, in particular bending loads, which primarily lead to tensile stresses in the lower chord and to compressive stresses in the upper chord. The chords are preferably designed as profiles or profile sections, in particular as L-profiles, U-profiles or Hollow profiles and thus have a favorable area moment of inertia for absorbing the bending loads. The belts therefore stiffen the support structure and form outer corner points, with the belts and/or the side walls optionally serving to attach further components of the guideway device. The belts can also be designed as components separate from the side wall; however, at least some of the belts are preferably formed integrally with the side wall, for example by bending the side wall. The upper belt is particularly preferably designed as a hollow profile with four walls, with two walls being formed by the L-shaped side wall made from flat material in this area, and two further walls being formed by a flat material component that is also L-shaped and separate from the side wall. Furthermore, the lower belt is preferably designed in a similar way as a hollow profile with four walls, with two walls being formed by the L-shaped side wall made from flat material in this area, and two walls being formed by the floor unit that is also L-shaped and made from flat material in this area. The components forming the walls are preferably welded together. The upper chord and/or the lower chord can also be provided entirely in one piece with the side wall or entirely separately from the side wall (particularly in terms of a process variation).

"Structurally loadable" is understood to mean a point or component of the supporting structure that is temporarily loadable to absorb at least the forces resulting from the dead mass of the guideway device or the corresponding module, e.g. in connection with individual assembly steps. This term is used, for example, in relation to the reference points described here.

The term "load-bearing" is understood to mean a component or a part (section) of the supporting structure which is designed to withstand the prevailing static and dynamic forces and moments, even under continuous loading over several years, when the guideway device is used as intended.

The term "connecting means" in the sense of the present disclosure is to be understood as a screw connection or a rivet connection, in particular in connection with the marriage of modules with one another, in particular a so-called locking ring bolt connection. The person skilled in the art can specify whether such a preferred rivet connection or locking ring bolt connection should be replaced in individual cases or at individual connection points by, for example, a screw connection. The rivet connection or locking ring bolt connection preferably comprises at least one, in particular material-removing Visual inspection marking. The fasteners are preferably applied in conjunction with force-fitting metal sheet connections to the supporting structures of adjacent modules.

It is worth mentioning that the present invention is also based in particular on the concept that at least a significant portion of a side wall, an upper flange, a lower flange and/or the entire side wall unit, which portion defines the overall shape, is made of flat material, in particular sheet metal, with at least one reference point preferably being defined on the flat material. Using processing methods available today for flat materials, in particular processing using laser cutting tools, reference can be made to at least one reference point that has been introduced accordingly during the further course of assembly of the guideway device, so that assembly can be carried out with very small assembly tolerances and the guideway device can be created with advantageously high dimensional accuracy. In this way, the comparatively exact relative or absolute positioning of individual components of the guideway device with reference to the at least one reference point can also be made possible, and additional measures for aligning and positioning the components, in particular relative to one another, can largely be dispensed with. The invention particularly preferably includes the teaching of introducing further references, in particular corresponding recesses (in the sense of additional component-specific assembly reference points) on the flat material in addition to the at least one reference point arranged in particular in the corresponding side wall during the course of the same processing method, on which further components can be arranged directly and thus in a defined position relative to at least one (master) reference point with high accuracy. The references or reference recesses are also introduced in particular in areas of the flat material which can be subjected to further processing steps, in particular bending processes, following laser cutting, whereby the referencing concept described here can also be implemented for multi-dimensional positioning in space with respect to at least two or all three spatial directions. The invention further includes the teaching that the reference point is defined by, for example, a circular recess or by its center, to which further positioning devices (i.e. assembly aids such as, for example, side support units) for positioning individual longitudinal sections or components can be clamped, for example. In particular, the respective component with the reference point or the entire module or the entire guideway device is lifted at at least one reference point or supported around a reference axis formed by several reference points, e.g. also suspended from it or lifted or tilted around this axis. At least one significant Part of an upper chord or a lower chord can be formed from a profile, whereby corresponding processing methods, in particular tube laser cutting methods, for forming a reference point and/or further references are also available for profiles.
The general term "components" refers to components to be installed in the respective guideway devices or in the respective modules of the guideway device, e.g. relating to electrics, drive, guidance or the like. If a load-bearing function is to be fulfilled by a structural component, in particular for the intended continuous load, the term "load-bearing components" or structural parts/elements/sections is used in connection with the supporting structure.

The term "coordinated arrangement and alignment" in the context of the present disclosure is to be understood as meaning that the individual modules are already provided in such a way that no additional assembly aids need to be used to lift, position and/or align the modules in order to marry them together as intended. For connecting/marrying, purely form-fitting sheet metal connections are preferably applied using force-fitting/form-fitting connecting means, in particular in at least two fastening levels per sheet metal connection.

Personified terms, unless formulated in the neuter form here, can refer to all genders within the scope of this disclosure. Any English-language expressions or abbreviations used here are technical terms customary in the industry and are familiar to those skilled in the English language.

According to one embodiment, before the support structures of the at least three longitudinal section modules are connected/married, the two head modules with their support structures are arranged and aligned in an orientation and/or arrangement for the final assembly (in particular for module-specific assembly with advantageous accessibility), which corresponds to the orientation of the at least one intermediate module provided between the head modules, in particular by aligning (tilting) a/the pedestal section of the respective head module at least approximately horizontally and a/the connecting inclined section of the respective head module (thereby) inclined upwards or downwards. Last but not least, this also minimizes the handling effort with regard to comparatively voluminous and massive support structure sections. Connecting/marrying can also be carried out in a purely form-fitting/force-fitting manner, for example, which makes the assembly process even more flexible and variable, and also enables a sequential manufacturing method can be implemented in a comparatively simple manner with minimized inventory and minimized space requirements.

According to one embodiment, a respective longitudinal section module is arranged and supported in a module-specific manner by means of at least one support and movement device and is preferably supported in reference points provided integrally on the support structure of the longitudinal section module. This also enables a comparatively precise alignment with minimized handling effort.

It is worth mentioning that the support and movement devices described here, by means of which the individual modules can be arranged, positioned and aligned, can also be provided by so-called trolleys or trolleys, which are available in many machine halls or production facilities, especially if the trolleys or trolleys have an integrated height and/or lateral adjustment. It has therefore been shown that the positioning accuracy described here cannot necessarily be achieved solely by means of the reference hole grid described here in predefined/standardized positioning means (compare the disclosure of the positioning units equipped in particular with standardized guides or plug connections on alignment plates), but also by means of comparatively simply designed trolleys or trolleys, which can be used, for example, in conjunction with a traverse tree placed on them. For example, the respective truss tree is provided by two L-angles made of 8 mm sheet steel that are welded together (in particular for a/the respective upper head module), whereby laser-cut reference recesses or corresponding coupling holes can be provided/introduced in the L-angles. The respective lower head module and the respective intermediate module are, for example, mounted on U-profiles made of 8 mm laser-cut sheet steel, which form a/the truss tree. Flat iron can be welded onto one of the L-angles or the respective U-profile. The truss trees described here as double L-angles or as U-profiles, preferably made of 8 mm sheet steel (laser-cut), can each be arranged and secured on the respective support and movement device by means of angles and supports (in this respect, the positioning units described here can be characterized by these features). For example, one angle is screwed onto a support in each case so that slipping out can be prevented. A respective side support unit can also be provided by a preferably laser-cut and welded L-angle made of 8mm sheet metal, which can be screwed to the respective truss tree. The through bolts described here can also be used on side support units designed in this way in conjunction with the relative positioning by using the reference recesses in the respective side wall.

In this case, an absolute (lateral) position reference, particularly in the transverse direction, can also be provided, for example, by a tree (beam, vertical support) or point in a/the machine hall (e.g. also door frame), from which a geometric definition of at least individual sections of the assembly line can be specified, e.g. using at least one dimensionally stable profile (e.g. L-profile) which is fixed to the floor in a strictly axial alignment (or a differently defined fixed bearing side, compare the disclosure on the optionally usable side stop), if necessary also using optical assembly aids such as a laser beam or a flat laser beam plane.

According to one embodiment, at least one of the head modules is tilted from a horizontal orientation of a/the platform section of the head module selected for the upstream assembly into an inclined orientation of the platform section, so that a/the connecting inclined section of the head module is aligned horizontally and is aligned with the longitudinal orientation of the intermediate module (arranged in line), wherein the tilting movement is preferably carried out by means of a tilting device/tilting kinematics, wherein the tilting movement is preferably carried out after the module-specific assembly from module to module and immediately before the modules are connected. Last but not least, this also enables an advantageous arrangement/alignment of the respective end/platform section over a long phase of the manufacturing process. The tilting device/tilting kinematics can also be integrated, for example, into a/the respective support and movement device on which the respective module can be arranged. The tilting movement can be achieved, for example, by supporting the module on its own reference axes, i.e., by tilting around reference points/axes arranged in side wall units of the supporting structure.

According to one embodiment, after the module-wise assembly of each longitudinal section module (in particular in the aforementioned coordinated arrangement and alignment), the support structures of adjacent longitudinal section modules are connected/married to one another in pairs (final assembly). This step is variable with regard to the order of the pair-wise connection; it has been shown that it is particularly advantageous to first connect the lower head module to the corresponding intermediate module. The modules can already be arranged in line relative to one another in the arrangement in which the connection is to take place, i.e. e.g. by positioning the modules only in the axial direction relative to each other and, if necessary, tilting them around a (reference) axis.

According to one embodiment, a respective longitudinal section module is arranged and supported by means of a support and movement device and is/remains optionally movable relative to the ground by means of the support and movement device, wherein the support and movement device is configured for horizontally aligning a/the platform section and/or a/the inclined section of the head module, and wherein a/the support and movement device is preferably configured for inclining/tilting the head module by a minimum tilt angle (in particular with the minimum tilt angle corresponding to a structurally predetermined inclination angle of the travel path device), so that a/the platform section and an inclined section (if required or at a given time in the process) change their inclination/orientation in a mirror image (in particular from a horizontal orientation to an inclined orientation and vice versa). Last but not least, this design also facilitates a variation of the orientation in each case with regard to good accessibility of the platform section or the inclined section.

According to one embodiment, the respective head module is arranged and supported by means of a support and movement device which is designed such that a/the platform section of the head module can be tilted from a horizontal orientation to an inclined orientation, so that a/the connecting inclined section of the head module is/will be aligned horizontally and is/will be aligned in the longitudinal orientation of the intermediate module (falls in a line). As a result, the transition from a module-specific production phase to a production phase relating to the entire guideway device can be made by means of a comparatively small displacement or by means of a comparatively easy-to-use tilting device, for example without having to change the arrangement or relative position of the respective module in the longitudinal or transverse direction.

According to one embodiment, at least one of the head modules with its platform section is tilted towards the ground and aligned in such a way that a/the platform section of the head module is arranged in an inclined orientation in the intended angular oblique arrangement with the structurally predefined angle of inclination (a) at least below the alignment/support plane of the (horizontally aligned) intermediate module, optionally below the subsurface/ground, e.g. in a pit. Last but not least, this also makes it possible to let the intermediate module remain in at least an approximately horizontal orientation.

An arrangement/extension of the platform section of the upper head module in a pit or the like is not necessarily required, but can be advantageous, for example, if the intermediate module is to be aligned as strictly horizontally as possible and is also to be arranged comparatively close to the ground, i.e. flat just above the ground.

According to one embodiment, the head modules and the at least one intermediate module of the guideway device to be assembled are stored, supported and aligned one after the other in the correct order, whereby the longitudinal alignment of the modules can also be aligned with one another. Last but not least, this also facilitates an assembly process that requires little space and only comparatively slim assembly aids.

According to one embodiment, the longitudinal section modules of several guideway devices are each stored, supported and aligned in the correct order, one after the other, along one/the same assembly line, for example a first guideway device comprising three longitudinal section modules and a second guideway device comprising four longitudinal section modules. Last but not least, this also facilitates efficient production of larger quantities without having to forego the high degree of variability, flexibility and customizability described here.

The term "assembly line" can also be understood in the sense that the individual modules are arranged along a line/axis, which can be predefined either by rails or by a side stop or similar guide aids. The expert can specify in individual cases which guide aids are particularly useful; in this respect too, the inventive concept provides comparatively large degrees of freedom and is not limited to a specific design of an assembly line.

According to one embodiment, at least one intermediate module of the guideway device to be constructed is lifted and tilted into such an orientation that an upper head module can be connected to the intermediate module in an arrangement with its platform section in at least approximately horizontal orientation.
According to one embodiment, the upper head module with its inclined section is arranged in an at least approximately horizontal orientation such that it can be connected to an at least approximately horizontally oriented intermediate module. This promotes also a process in which the intermediate module can remain in a horizontal orientation.

According to one embodiment, the individual longitudinal section modules are transferred to a longitudinal section module connection arrangement, in particular on the same assembly line, wherein the longitudinal section modules in the longitudinal section module connection arrangement can be connected to one another in pairs, in particular purely force-fitting/form-fitting without material bonding, in particular in an arrangement supported relative to one another in reference axes and reference recesses via the side walls of the support structures. The transfer can be carried out, for example, by a pure translational movement, in which the individual modules are moved closer to one another and, for example, are only spaced apart from one another in the longitudinal direction so that a tilting movement on the respective head module positions the sections of the support structures to be connected to one another relative to one another. In this respect, the assembly line can, for example, initially only serve to bring the individual modules into line in alignment, and in a/the downstream longitudinal section module connection arrangement, for example, the respective module or the entire support structure of the guideway device can also be tilted and/or raised or lowered. In this respect, the longitudinal section module connection arrangement optionally also includes a lifting/tilting kinematics at least module-specific for the respective support structure and optionally also for the entire guideway device, in particular ground-based without additional cranes or the like, means that lift the modules from above. By means of the longitudinal section module connection arrangement, the support structures of the individual longitudinal section modules can be positioned relative to one another in such a way that the sheet metal connections described here can be applied to form the respective load-bearing module connection, optionally also manually.

The above-mentioned object is also achieved by a guideway device according to the corresponding independent device claim, namely by a guideway device with at least three interconnected longitudinal section modules consisting of two head modules and at least one intermediate module, manufactured by a method previously described above, in particular by positively/non-positively connecting the individual longitudinal section modules in pairs in a relative position realized by aligning and arranging the at least three longitudinal section modules forming the guideway device on an assembly line (in particular on the same assembly line); wherein the guideway device can be supported in a load-bearing manner at reference points provided integrally on the support structure of a/the respective longitudinal section module on at least one support and movement device and preferably also on side support units supported thereon; in particular also when/by using the here described assembly aids in combination with the reference points/recesses (preferably circular recesses) provided integrally on the support structure of a respective longitudinal section module. This results in the aforementioned advantages, particularly with regard to mirroring and coordinating design features and process-related (manufacturing) characteristics and requirements. The side support units advantageously provide standardized coupling means.

According to one embodiment, the guideway device can be tilted about at least one reference axis formed by the reference points in the reference points provided integrally on the support structure of a respective longitudinal section module. This provides advantages on the one hand in the phase of module-specific assembly, and on the other hand also in the phase of assembling the entire guideway device (marrying the support structures).

According to one embodiment, a respective longitudinal section module has at least one reference axis formed by reference points provided integrally on the support structure of the longitudinal section module and loadable by the deadweight of the guideway device, on which the longitudinal section module can be supported on at least one support and movement device, in particular with the number of reference axes correlating to the number of support and movement devices or similar support points used, in particular at least two reference axes per module. This provides advantages on the one hand with regard to the optimal alignment of the individual modules, and on the other hand also variability with regard to relative distance in the longitudinal direction.

According to one embodiment, the guideway device can be supported on at least one support and movement device in structurally loadable reference recesses integrally introduced into side wall units of the support structure of a respective longitudinal section module, and can preferably also be tilted about at least one reference axis formed by the reference recesses. Last but not least, this also facilitates (final) assembly in a comparatively slim assembly line using comparatively slim assembly aids, which also allows the equipment and space requirements for production to be further reduced. Good accuracy of the reference recesses and thus also of the arrangement and alignment of the reference axis can be achieved in particular by means of laser cutting, in particular introduced during the creation of the flat material geometry of the respective side wall (unit).

The reference recesses described here can also be used for the arrangement of adapter plates, in particular in a preparatory phase when positioning two modules face-to-face, before the modules are connected/married in a form-fitting/non-positive manner. The adapter plates can be mounted on the reference recesses of a first module and facilitate flush docking of the adjacent (second) module, in particular by providing corresponding tapered guides (at least one) on the respective adapter plate; the adapter plates are advantageously mounted on the outside of the respective side wall, in particular at least approximately centrally with respect to the total height of the cross-section of the support structure. A corresponding guide bolt can be mounted on the adjacent (second) module, in particular also on at least one reference recess, in particular also in the relative position described here relative to the support structure. Such adapter plates can be provided in a simple and cost-effective manner, in particular from sheet metal.

It is worth mentioning that the adapter plates can make it easier to connect the modules both when working with a pit (one of the head modules is tilted with its end section below the working level and reaches deeper than a machine hall floor into a pit and can optionally be supported there) and when working without a pit; when working without a pit, the working level for the entire support structure (i.e. for all modules to be connected) can be raised and/or tilting takes place in such a way that the head module to be tilted downwards is still positioned with its free end above the floor of the machine hall; in this phase, at least the head module is suspended from a crane if necessary, so that the adapter plates can make it easier to align or at least guide the module as it approaches the adjacent module until it touches the edge (or until a gap specified/specified by the adapter plate).

• Anbringen der Adapterplatte an den entsprechenden Referenzaussparungen eines/des ersten Moduls, insbesondere an wenigstens zwei Referenzaussparungen;
• an einer/der außenliegenden Abstütz- und Bewegungseinrichtung (z.B. hintere Lore) eines/des unteren Kopfmoduls (Unterteil) wird wenigstens ein Bolzen gelöst, woraufhin das untere Kopfmodul am Podestabschnitt angehoben (bzw. nach oben gedrückt) werden kann und dabei um die Referenzachse am Schrägabschnitt gekippt werden kann, bis der Schrägabschnitt horizontal ausgerichtet ist (Drehpunkt insbesondere über ein Bolzenpaar realisiert);
• nach Abstecken über die Referenzaussparungen kann das untere Kopfmodul (Unterteil) mit dem angrenzenden Zwischenmodul (Mittelteil) form-/kraftschlüssig verbunden werden, insbesondere vernietet werden;
• daraufhin kann das mit dem Unterteil (unteres Kopfmodul) verbundene Mittelteil (Zwischenmodul) derart weit durch eine Kippbewegung um Referenzaussparungen des Unterteils angehoben (bzw. nach oben gedrückt) werden, dass ein ausreichend großer Freiraum zum Maschinenhallenboden geschaffen ist, um das obere Kopfmodul (ebenfalls in gekippter Ausrichtung) mit dem Zwischenmodul zu verheiraten - dabei wird ein/der Drehpunkt bevorzugt ausschließlich durch ein in den entsprechenden Referenzaussparungen am unteren Kopfmodul angeordnetes Bolzenpaar vorgegeben; bevorzugt gleichzeitig wird das Oberteil (oberes Kopfmodul) durch eine Kippbewegung angehoben(bzw. nach oben gedrückt), wobei das Oberteil dabei um eine/die im Bereich des freien Endes des Podestabschnitts angeordnete Referenzachse dreht, und dann wird das Oberteil in den am Zwischenmodul montierten Adapterplatten abgelegt, wobei zur Axialannäherung der Module aneinander z.B. auch eine Schraubzwingen oder dergleichen Werkzeug zwischen den Modulen verspannt werden kann;
• nach Abstecken über die Referenzaussparungen kann nun auch das obere Kopfmodul (Oberteil) mit dem angrenzenden Zwischenmodul (Mittelteil) form-/kraftschlüssig verbunden werden, insbesondere vernietet werden;

For example, the respective adapter plate is used as follows, here using the example of a final assembly of the supporting structure without using a pit:

• Attaching the adapter plate to the corresponding reference recesses of a/the first module, in particular to at least two reference recesses;
• at least one bolt is loosened on an external support and movement device (e.g. rear trolley) of a lower head module (lower part), whereupon the lower head module can be lifted (or pushed upwards) at the platform section and can be tilted about the reference axis at the inclined section until the inclined section is aligned horizontally (pivot point realized in particular via a pair of bolts);
• after staking out via the reference recesses, the lower head module (lower part) can be connected to the adjacent intermediate module (middle part) in a form-fitting/non-positive manner, in particular by riveting;
• then the middle part (intermediate module) connected to the lower part (lower head module) can be raised (or pushed upwards) by a tilting movement around reference recesses in the lower part to such an extent that a sufficiently large clearance is created to the machine hall floor in order to marry the upper head module (also in a tilted orientation) to the intermediate module - in this case a pivot point is preferably specified exclusively by a pair of bolts arranged in the corresponding reference recesses on the lower head module; preferably at the same time the upper part (upper head module) is raised (or pushed upwards) by a tilting movement, whereby the upper part rotates around a reference axis arranged in the area of the free end of the platform section, and then the upper part is placed in the adapter plates mounted on the intermediate module, whereby a screw clamp or similar tool can also be clamped between the modules to bring the modules axially closer to one another;
• After staking out using the reference recesses, the upper head module (upper part) can now be connected to the adjacent intermediate module (middle part) in a form-fitting/non-positive manner, in particular by riveting;

The steps outlined here show that the form-fitting/non-positive connection concept for marrying the modules can be implemented in a very flexible and variable manner with high precision and with minimal assembly aids, largely independent of location (i.e. both as a preparatory measure at the manufacturer's site and on a construction site for final assembly at the destination). The respective adapter plate can be provided without any problem regardless of location and can also be designed so inexpensively that even a single use (if not reusable) can be priced in without any problems.

The aforementioned object is also achieved by using assembly aids to form an assembly line for aligning and arranging and feeding a support structure of a guideway device (in particular a guideway device previously described above) consisting of at least three longitudinal section modules to be connected to one another to a longitudinal section module connection arrangement which is provided for connecting the individual longitudinal section modules in pairs (in particular positive/non-positive connection), in particular using module-specific support and movement devices and positioning units for storing and aligning the respective Longitudinal section module for carrying out a process previously described above on the same assembly line. This enables the aforementioned advantages to be achieved, particularly when referring to reference points provided integrally on the respective module.

Summary: In the case of guideway devices, it is important to ensure a good compromise between standardization and variability, in particular with regard to the support structure. According to the invention, a modular concept is provided both with regard to the structural design and with regard to the assembly process relating to the entire support structure of the guideway device, whereby by providing and connecting at least two longitudinal section modules of the guideway device, which is provided in a modular configuration with at least three separate longitudinal section modules consisting of two head modules and at least one intermediate module, a connection/marriage of load-bearing support structures of the longitudinal section modules of at least one of the head modules, in particular initially the intended lower head module, takes place in an orientation and/or arrangement that matches the orientation/arrangement of the support structure of the at least one intermediate module, in particular with the platform section of the (respective) head module in a horizontal orientation. This can also ensure good accessibility and ergonomics up to the final assembly phase. The invention further relates to a corresponding guideway device.

SHORT DESCRIPTION OF THE CHARACTERS

• Figur 1 in einer Seitenansicht in schematischer Darstellung eine Fahrtreppe gemäß dem Stand der Technik, also mit über die absolute Länge der Fahrtreppe erstellter Tragstruktur, ohne konstruktive Unterteilung in Längsabschnittsmodule;
• Figuren 2A, 2B jeweils in einer Seitenansicht ein erstes Kopfmodul und ein zweites Kopfmodul einer Fahrwegvorrichtung gemäß einem Ausführungsbeispiel, wobei die Kopfmodule jeweils in zwei Auflagerpunkten am Podestabschnitt mit dem Podestabschnitt in zumindest annähernd paralleler Ausrichtung zum Boden gelagert/abgestützt sind;
• Figur 3 in einer Seitenansicht vier Längsabschnittsmodule einer Fahrwegvorrichtung gemäß einem Ausführungsbeispiel, umfassend ein erstes Kopfmodul und ein zweites Kopfmodul und zwei dazwischen angeordnete Zwischenmodule, wobei die Module jeweils in zwei Auflagerpunkten in zumindest annähernd paralleler Ausrichtung zum Boden gelagert/abgestützt sind und dabei auch zumindest annähernd axial fluchtend relativ zueinander bzw. in einer/der vordefinierten Montageachse ausgerichtet sind;
• Figuren 4A, 4B, 4C jeweils in einer perspektivischen Seitenansicht die Tragstruktur eines ersten (oberen) Kopfmoduls und eines Zwischenmoduls und eines zweiten (unteren) Kopfmoduls einer Fahrwegvorrichtung gemäß einem Ausführungsbeispiel, wobei zumindest die Seitenwände des jeweiligen Tragstrukturmoduls zumindest im Wesentlichen aus Flachmaterial ausgestaltet sind;
• Figuren 5A, 5B, 5C jeweils in einer perspektivischen Seitenansicht die Tragstruktur eines ersten Kopfmoduls und eines Zwischenmoduls und ein zweites Kopfmodul einer Fahrwegvorrichtung gemäß einem Ausführungsbeispiel, wobei die jeweilige Tragstruktur bereits mit weiteren Einbaukomponenten bestückt ist und in wenigstens zwei Auflagerpunkten auf Abstütz- und Bewegungseinrichtungen angeordnet ist und in einer Positioniereinheit relativ zum Boden ausgerichtet ist;
• Figur 6 in einer Seitenansicht in schematischer Darstellung vier auf einer Montagelinie angeordnete Längsabschnittsmodule einer Fahrwegvorrichtung gemäß einem Ausführungsbeispiel, wobei die einzelnen Module derart relativ zueinander ausgerichtet sind, dass deren Stirnseiten bzw. Stoßebenen jeweils paarweise in zumindest annähernd vertikal ausgerichteten Verbindungsebenen miteinander verbunden werden können;
• Figur 7 eine Abfolge eines Verfahrens für die Erstellung bzw. den Zusammenbau der Tragstruktur gemäß Ausführungsbeispielen, wobei eine exemplarische Unterteilung in sieben Schritte erfolgt;
• Figuren 8A, 8B, 8C jeweils in Draufsicht in schematischer Darstellung einzelne Phasen des Verbindens der Module (Schritt S6) zu einer vollständigen Tragstruktur einer Fahrwegvorrichtung gemäß Ausführungsbeispielen;
• Figur 9 in einer Seitenansicht in schematischer Darstellung eine Montagelinie mit mehreren hintereinander angeordneten Gruppen von Modulen von zu erstellenden Fahrwegvorrichtungen, wobei die Tragstrukturen der jeweiligen Module am Ende der Montagelinie in einer Längsabschnittsmodulverbindungsanordnung durch einen Prozess gemäß Ausführungsbeispielen relativ zueinander ausgerichtet und paarweise miteinander verbunden werden;
• Figuren 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 10E jeweils in einer Seitenansicht in schematischer Darstellung einzelne Phasen des Verbindens/Verheiratens der Module (Schritt S6) zu einer vollständigen Tragstruktur einer Fahrwegvorrichtung gemäß Ausführungsbeispielen auf einem ebenen Boden/Untergrund, wobei keine Grube genutzt wird;
• Figuren 11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, 11E, 11F jeweils in einer Seitenansicht (geschnitten oder nicht geschnitten) in schematischer Darstellung die Abstützung und Ausrichtung einzelner Längsabschnittsmodule insbesondere beim Anordnen und Ausrichten (relatives Positionieren) mehrerer Module oder beim Verbinden/Verheiraten der Module (Schritt S6) zu einer vollständigen Tragstruktur einer Fahrwegvorrichtung gemäß Ausführungsbeispielen;
• Figuren 12A, 12B, 12C jeweils in einer perspektivischen Seitenansicht in schematischer Darstellung einzelne Phasen des Verbindens/Verheiratens der Module (Schritt S6) zu einer vollständigen Tragstruktur einer Fahrwegvorrichtung gemäß Ausführungsbeispielen auf einem ebenen Boden/Untergrund, wobei keine Grube genutzt wird, wobei Fig. 12C im Detail eine/die unter anderem für diesen Schritt verwendbare Adapterplatte zeigt;

The invention is described in more detail in the following drawing figures, whereby reference is made to the other drawing figures for reference symbols that are not explicitly described in a respective drawing figure. They show:

• Figure 1 in a side view in schematic representation of an escalator according to the state of the art, i.e. with a supporting structure constructed over the absolute length of the escalator, without structural subdivision into longitudinal section modules;
• Figures 2A , 2B each in a side view of a first head module and a second head module of a guideway device according to an embodiment, wherein the head modules are each mounted/supported in two support points on the platform section with the platform section in at least approximately parallel alignment to the ground;
• Figure 3 in a side view four longitudinal section modules of a guideway device according to an embodiment, comprising a first head module and a second head module and two intermediate modules arranged therebetween, wherein the modules are each supported/supported in two support points in an at least approximately parallel alignment to the ground and thereby also are at least approximately axially aligned relative to each other or in a predefined mounting axis;
• Figures 4A , 4B , 4C each in a perspective side view of the support structure of a first (upper) head module and of an intermediate module and of a second (lower) head module of a guideway device according to an embodiment, wherein at least the side walls of the respective support structure module are at least substantially made of flat material;
• Figures 5A , 5B , 5C each in a perspective side view of the support structure of a first head module and an intermediate module and a second head module of a guideway device according to an embodiment, wherein the respective support structure is already equipped with further installation components and is arranged in at least two support points on support and movement devices and is aligned in a positioning unit relative to the ground;
• Figure 6 in a side view in a schematic representation of four longitudinal section modules of a guideway device according to an embodiment arranged on an assembly line, wherein the individual modules are aligned relative to one another in such a way that their end faces or joint planes can each be connected to one another in pairs in at least approximately vertically aligned connecting planes;
• Figure 7 a sequence of a method for the construction or assembly of the supporting structure according to embodiments, wherein an exemplary division into seven steps is made;
• Figures 8A , 8B , 8C each in plan view in a schematic representation of individual phases of connecting the modules (step S6) to form a complete supporting structure of a guideway device according to embodiments;
• Figure 9 in a side view in a schematic representation of an assembly line with several groups of modules of guideway devices to be produced arranged one behind the other, wherein the support structures of the respective modules at the end of the assembly line are aligned relative to one another in a longitudinal section module connection arrangement by a process according to embodiments and are connected to one another in pairs;
• Figures 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 10E each in a side view in a schematic representation of individual phases of connecting/marrying the modules (step S6) to form a complete support structure of a guideway device according to embodiments on a flat floor/subsurface, wherein no pit is used;
• Figures 11A , 11B , 11C , 11D , 11E , 11F each in a side view (cut or not cut) in a schematic representation of the support and alignment of individual longitudinal section modules, particularly when arranging and aligning (relative positioning) several modules or when connecting/marrying the modules (step S6) to form a complete support structure of a guideway device according to embodiments;
• Figures 12A , 12B , 12C each in a perspective side view in a schematic representation of individual phases of connecting/marrying the modules (step S6) to form a complete support structure of a guideway device according to embodiments on a flat floor/subsurface, wherein no pit is used, wherein Fig. 12C shows in detail an adapter plate that can be used for this step, among others;

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

The invention is first explained with general reference to all reference numbers and figures. Special features or individual aspects or aspects of the present invention that are clearly visible/representable in the respective figure are addressed individually in connection with the respective figure.

A travel path device 10 (in particular an escalator device) is provided, comprising at least three longitudinal section modules 11, namely an upper head module 11a and a lower head module 11b and at least one intermediate module (in particular a straight module without a bend) 11c, with which the head modules are connected. The respective head module 11a, 11b has a platform section 11.1 (or landing section or first longitudinal section or end section) with a horizontal orientation as intended. In a transition area 11.2 (bend), the platform section changes into an inclined section 11.3 (or second longitudinal section of the respective head module) with an inclined orientation as intended. At the bend, the support structure therefore spans an angle of inclination α, corresponding to the inclination between the platform section and the inclined section. A free end 11.1a of the platform section marks the beginning or the end of the guideway device at its respective front end 11.4. Depending on the design of the guideway device 10, several interconnected intermediate modules can also be provided, so that the respective (first) intermediate module is/will be connected to at least one further intermediate module 11c (advantageous length scaling based on a comparatively short basic module length unit of a standard intermediate module).

Advantageously, a/the support structure 15 of the respective longitudinal section module 11 is constructed in a conceptually comparable manner: Opposite side wall units 17, in particular comprising at least one profile section bent from flat material, are each made of a side wall 17a, 17b and an upper band (upper belt section) 17.7 and a lower band (lower belt section) 17.9 formed and connected to one another by means of crossbars 16.1 (e.g. crossbeams, in particular with a hollow profile). The side walls 17a, 17b are preferably formed largely or optionally exclusively from flat material, which can be bent at least in edge areas and welded to other flat material sections. In this respect, any sectional structuring can also be provided from flat material sections, in particular without the need to install profile semi-finished products. Last but not least, this enables a type of standardization of possibly individual, specifically preferred material thicknesses in the area of structural stiffeners, which also means that the connection technology applied in each case (be it material connection or force/form connection) can be applied even more precisely, with a view to even greater dimensional accuracy (minimized tolerances).

In this respect, the support structure 15 can also have, at least in sections, a lattice-like configuration of individual strut-like structural sections intended primarily for tensile or compressive loading, whereby such a lattice-like design or orientation of the individual sections can also be individualized, in particular depending on the structural components selected in each case, in particular already in a phase of flat material processing. A lattice-like configuration also advantageously comprises at least partially or even essentially only flat material sections (instead of profiles predetermined by semi-finished product production). This is because it has been shown that this design, which is at least largely made of flat material, is particularly advantageous also with regard to the modular production concept described here and a scalability favored in this context, not least with regard to the achievable accuracy.

Furthermore, the respective longitudinal section module 11 can also have a base unit 14, which, however, does not necessarily have to have a load-bearing function. Optionally, the base unit extends only two-dimensionally and rather only fulfills a panel function (whereby the base unit can also have recesses, for example, which make access to the support structure easier), optionally the base unit can also comprise bent profile sections (in particular L-shaped bent end areas) and be connected to the actual support structure 15 in a structurally stiffening manner. The person skilled in the art can specify an appropriate integration of the base unit into the support structure for the respective application; in this respect too, the design according to the invention opens up possibilities for variation.

The respective completed module 11 can also have a balustrade 12 and a handrail 13 or the corresponding longitudinal section thereof.

Advantageously, at least one reference point 17.1 is formed in the respective side wall unit 17, which can be defined, for example, by a geometrically predefined (in particular laser-cut) reference recess 17.3 (in particular a material recess introduced by material processing). A significant part of the referencing during the relative and/or positioning of the individual components can advantageously be carried out via these reference recesses 17.3, which can also be repeated, for example, after a predefined length unit of e.g. two or three meters and can therefore be provided redundantly, optionally also concerning all handling and assembly steps downstream of the introduction of the reference recesses 17.3 up to the final creation of at least the support structure and optionally also the entire guideway device. In this case, further assembly/fastening points for at least one further component to be fastened to the support structure can also be provided or positioned relative to the corresponding reference point 17.1 (for example also predefined by laser cutting or a comparably precisely adjustable processing method), in particular with reference to reference points which are arranged in a height or length section of the corresponding flat material section, for which a comparatively high (manufacturing) accuracy can be ensured, in particular in the context of laser cutting processes.

The reference points 17.1 can considerably facilitate the storage and handling (in particular a tilting movement) of the respective module 11, in particular in connection with connecting/marrying the modules in pairs, and increase the accuracy that could previously be achieved using comparatively simple and compact assembly aids (in particular in coordination with other assembly aids that enable comparably precise storage on the floor 1, such as side support units, by means of which predefined positioned coupling points are provided, via which the modules can be coupled to the reference recesses). Preferably, the individual modules 11 are connected to one another by means of form-fitting and/or force-fitting (load-)bearing module connections 30 or sheet metal connections 31 in a plurality of fastening axes 34, while the modules 11 are supported in the reference recesses. This comparatively precise and yet easy-to-use connection technology (e.g. also purely manually) is described in more detail elsewhere.

The following reference numerals indicate reference planes or similar geometrical features which facilitate the understanding of the present invention: Floor 1 (in particular floor, subsurface, machine hall floor level or the like); Floor level E1 (e.g. level of a machine/assembly hall); alignment/support height plane Exy of the intermediate module, in particular horizontal; structurally load-bearing reference axis Y17, in particular for tilting movement, provided by means of the side wall units; horizontal longitudinal direction x, transverse direction y, vertical direction z;

The Figures 5A to 5C show several longitudinal section modules 11 of a modularly constructed and modularly assembled guideway device 10, namely Figure 5C a longitudinal section module 11b designed as a lower head module, Figure 5B a longitudinal section module 11c designed as an intermediate module, and Figure 5A a longitudinal section module 11a designed as an upper head module. The longitudinal section modules 11 each have a support structure 15 with two side wall units 17 and cross members 16.1. In structural terms, a respective side wall unit 17 has at least one side wall 17a, 17b, an upper flange 17.7 and a lower flange 17.9.

The structure of the support structure 15 of the respective module consists largely of side walls or side wall units made of flat material. The side wall 17a, 17b is essentially made of flat material at least in an external plane and/or at least over a middle height section 15.1 (the middle height section can certainly make up at least 75% or even at least 85% of the total height of the corresponding side wall/unit), with structural sections designed as structural posts and/or structural sections designed as simple diagonal or cross-shaped cross braces being formed in the flat material in the corresponding side wall plane or slightly offset from it through recesses made in the flat material. The offset arrangement in several planes can be realized, for example, by bending the flat material in one piece, at a single angle or at multiple angles. The structural sections designed as structural posts divide the side wall 17a, 17b or the corresponding side wall unit 17 into fields. Furthermore, support elements and cross struts 16.1 are arranged or fastened to the structural sections provided by the flat material, in particular welded or otherwise connected, e.g. by means of a material bond.

The respective side wall 17a, 17b is further preferably formed integrally in one piece with the corresponding upper flange 17.7 and the lower flange 17.9, at least in sections; in particular, the flat material forming the respective side wall 17a, 17b forms a first wall (or a corresponding flat material section) and a second wall of the upper flange 17.7 bent in an L-shape from the first wall; a third wall and a fourth wall of the upper flange 17.7 are formed by a further wall made of an L-shaped bent A structural element or section is formed from flat material and welded to the flat material forming the corresponding side wall 17a, 17b. In the same or comparable manner, a first wall is formed on the lower flange 17.9 by the flat material forming the side wall, which is bent in an L-shape from the side wall, and a second wall is bent in an L-shape from the first wall; a third wall and a fourth wall of the lower flange 17.9 are formed by a base unit 14 which is bent in an L-shape at least in sections. The structural design of the upper and lower flanges can be based on the same design principle, but differ in details such as the cross-sectional geometry and/or area, in particular because the lower flange is primarily subjected to tensile stress and the upper flange is primarily or at least largely subjected to compressive forces. This structural design, in particular the use of flat material bent in an L-shape at least in individual sections, which is used to form further profiles, also enables a good compromise between material use, strength, variability and accuracy. It has been shown that a particularly advantageous arrangement can be provided if several (preferably only two) flat material sections bent in an L-shape in the end region are welded together to form a closed (square) profile.

The supporting structures of the longitudinal section modules 11 are in the Figures 5A to 5C in combination with other (built-in) components of the guideway device. The lower head module 11b has a comb plate, a base section and several guides for chain rollers, step/pallet rollers and/or handrails. Corresponding guide rails are also arranged on the intermediate module. The guide rails rest on structural sections (in particular made of flat material) of the support structure. The upper head module has (in particular in addition to the components already present in the lower head module and/or intermediate module) a drive for driving a chain and optionally also a handrail circuit. In addition, the upper head module 11a has a balustrade 12 with a handrail 13 arranged on it; the balustrade is connected to the support structure, as can be seen in particular from Fig. 5B visible.

The longitudinal section modules 11 each have reference points 17.1 or corresponding geometrically predefined (in particular circular) reference recesses 17.3 introduced into the flat material on the supporting structures 15 or side wall units 17 or side walls 17a, 17b ( Fig. 5B ). In the Figures 5A to 5C the reference points 17.1 are partially covered by side support units 44 which are predefined positioned/positionable on support and movement devices 40a, 40b and which are connected by means of coupling units 46 ( Fig. 5C ) can be coupled to the reference points 17.1 (e.g. by means of plug-in coupling bolts, which can be connected to the corresponding coupling points 45 of the support and movement devices 40a, 40b). By storing (in particular hanging) the individual longitudinal sections on the corresponding integrally provided reference points 17.1, reference can be made to these positioning reference points 17.1 repeatedly and preferably exclusively, in particular in connection with individual assembly and installation steps, in particular when positioning/aligning additional installation components. The reference points 17.1 are preferably formed as part of the manufacturing process of the side walls 17a, 17b on the corresponding structural section, in particular in the at least single-layer flat material, preferably by laser cutting, whereby thanks to a comparatively high level of accuracy (in particular in the case of a material processing process that is carried out partially or fully automated in the plane, e.g. on a correspondingly precisely aligned work table), further recesses or cutouts made on the structural sections or on the flat material are positioned/positionable comparatively precisely with very good accuracy in relation to the reference points 17.1 and can therefore (optionally) also serve as a reference for the positioning/alignment of components (however, reference is preferably made to the first master reference, described here as the actual original reference points of the respective longitudinal section). In particular, this also applies to the positioning of sheet metal connections 31 ( Fig. 5B ), which can be applied with force-locking/positive-locking connecting means 37 for connecting the longitudinal section modules 11 in pairs (in particular manually), as well as for slots or similar further recesses for receiving or for the predefined arrangement of further components of the guideway device 10 or further support structure elements (or flat material sections) such as individual support structure sections or support elements or crossbars, in particular also in an arrangement orthogonal to the side wall plane. By means of the reference points 17.1 and in particular the reference axis Y17 ( Fig. 5C ) tiltable storage or suspension/mounting of the longitudinal section modules 11 also ensures a comparatively exact alignment of the longitudinal section modules 11 relative to one another, in particular in connection with the pairwise connection/marriage of the modules to one another (if their abutment planes are aligned parallel to one another, in particular in each case in a connection plane predefined by a module connection process arrangement with at least approximately vertical alignment), which also noticeably facilitates the use of the sheet metal connections described here in combination with, for example, essentially manually introduced force-locking/positive-locking connecting means 37 (in particular locking ring bolts) and the feasibility of the modular concept described here can be further improved.

The present invention also makes it possible, in particular, to overcome disadvantages and handling difficulties associated with escalators 3 ( Fig.1 ) with standard construction, which require an inclined arrangement/alignment of all longitudinal sections or of the supporting structure already constructed over the entire longitudinal extent during a comparatively long phase of the manufacturing process.

The respective module can be supported against the ground at support points 11.11 provided/provided for the module on the supporting structure. The support points 11.11 can be provided, for example, on the underside of the respective supporting structure and enable the respective longitudinal section module to be laid down/supported independently of support at the reference points, thus making handling even easier. For example, the support points can also be used to temporarily store or transport the entire supporting structure after completion.

The support structure 15 or the corresponding side wall can be provided with a height section 15.1 with minimized tolerances (middle, arranged at least approximately in the middle between the upper and lower chords), in which a comparatively high position accuracy or a comparatively small tolerance can be ensured, in particular if the corresponding support structure section is preferably formed in one piece from flat material. In an upper height section 15a of the support structure, in particular in the area of the attachment of the balustrade, a comparatively large tolerance can also be uncritical. This also applies to a lower height section 15b of the support structure, in particular in the area of a/the floor unit. In this respect, the present invention is also based on the concept of enabling referencing to this middle height section 15.1 during relative and/or absolute positioning by providing at least one, preferably at least two structurally loadable reference recesses in this middle height section, e.g. set up for support on side support units.

The support structure 15 has, for example, several structural sections 15.3 (in particular flat material sections) and several support structure units 16, each with several profiles 16.1 or profile sections 16.1a with a hollow cross-section (in particular sheet metal profiles or flat material profiles), e.g. square profile sections, L-profile sections and/or U-profile sections. Individual surface sections or struts of the support structure units 16 can also be provided for connecting opposite side wall units. Optionally, several support structure units 16 together form a longitudinal section module, e.g. if the intermediate module is to be composed of several similarly constructed support structure units 16 or designed to be scalable and extendable.

On two adjacent longitudinal sections of the support structure, in particular also at the bend, recesses 16.2 (or a corresponding free space) can be structurally planned in the area of a connection interface/plane. Adjacent side wall sections can preferably be connected to one another in a flat connection interface 18 by coupling corresponding form-fitting contours to one another, in particular for the purpose of subsequent material-locking connection at the connection interface. For example, a form-fitting coupling is provided in particular for defining a relative position for subsequent welding of adjacent longitudinal sections, in each case by means of a first form-fitting contour on a first longitudinal section and a corresponding second form-fitting contour (in particular negative form) on a second longitudinal section, wherein several individual flange plate couplings (flat, acting two-dimensionally) can also be provided for each connection interface, in particular at height positions that are as far apart as possible. This promotes a high level of positional accuracy and reduces the risk of tilting/tensioning.

The form-fitting contours described here also facilitate the arrangement of the corresponding material sections on a work table unit for the production of the side walls or the side wall units or the supporting structure of individual longitudinal sections or modules.

For connecting/marrying the individual longitudinal section modules in pairs, a (load-)bearing module connection 30 is preferably provided, each comprising a plurality of sheet metal connections 31 with sheet metal angle units or plate units. The respective sheet metal connections 31 are preferably based on purely force-locking/positive locking connection technology, wherein the holding force produced is preferably a frictional force, i.e. can be ensured without a positive locking. Accordingly, the respective sheet metal connection 31 can comprise individual ones of the following connection components depending on the connection position: butt plate 31.1, inner angle or plate 31a (in particular curved angle piece), angle/angle piece 31b (in particular in a curved design), counter plate 32. The individual connection components are connected to one another in a form-locking/positive locking manner by means of connecting means 37 (in particular screw connection or rivet connection), in particular such that the supporting structures of the adjacent longitudinal section modules are held together in a frictional manner. For this purpose, fastening axes 34 are provided which are defined by the sheet metal connection and the supporting structure, in particular by several (through) holes or optionally fastening holes at least partially designed as elongated holes (in particular oversized in the axial longitudinal direction for the purpose of Position adjustment). Screws and/or rivets (for example in the form of locking ring bolts) are suitable as connecting means 37, with a lock nut or a similarly acting counterpart (for example a locking ring bolt connection) also preferably being provided.

A longitudinal section module connection arrangement 40 (or module connection process arrangement) enables the individual longitudinal section modules to be connected/married, whereby the handling and relative positioning can be carried out in an advantageous manner. The respective longitudinal section module can be supported against the ground by means of support and movement devices 40a, 40b or correspondingly acting supports (assembly aids) (in particular first and second support and movement devices 40a, 40b for each longitudinal section module), whereby a lifting or tilting kinematics 41 can also be integrated into the individual support and movement devices; a tilting device 42 enables a movement in the form of a tilting about a transverse axis for positioning a/the desired longitudinal section, for example for aligning a respective platform section in an inclined position in order to be able to position the corresponding inclined section in a horizontal alignment on the adjacent intermediate module. The support and movement devices 40a, 40b can be mounted on wheels or rollers 43. The support and movement devices 40a, 40b can preferably also each comprise side support units 44, by means of which the respective module can be supported via reference recesses made in the side wall units and positioned with minimal tolerances. For this purpose, coupling points 45 arranged in a predefined manner with high precision can be provided on the side support unit 44, to which coupling units 46 (e.g. plug-in coupling bolts) can be coupled. The longitudinal section module connection arrangement 40 or a corresponding section of a/the assembly line 100 can comprise further positioning units 50 depending on the preferred design of the assembly process (in particular equipped with guides or plug connections 53 on alignment plates), with the respective side support unit 44 preferably coupling in a standardized manner to a/the correspondingly provided positioning unit 50, optionally directly or via the support and movement devices described here. In other words: the side support units 44 can optionally be designed as comparatively slim side arm levers (eg also individually for each type of travel device), and the positioning units 50 can eg be provided as largely standardized assembly aids by means of which the support on the ground is carried out. This further reduces the effort for any desired type-specific adaptation of assembly aids.

The longitudinal section module connection arrangement 40 is preferably provided as a component of an assembly line 100 for assembling support structures of modularly constructed guideway devices (in particular process/production line), namely in the end region of this assembly line 100, on which the individual longitudinal section modules are preferably already arranged and supported in a phase of module-specific assembly in the intended order and optionally also in an alignment coordinated for the connection. The assembly line 100 can also comprise one or more alignment devices 101 (e.g. also floor-mounted rails), and/or optionally have at least one side stop 101.1 (in the direction transverse to the longitudinal extension of the respective module), which is preferably set up to interact with the side support units 44 (in particular without the need for rails or similar floor-mounted guides), so that positioning in the transverse direction can also be carried out via the reference points provided integrally for the module using comparatively slim assembly aids. For example, a clamp (clamp connection) enables individual assembly aids to be held/fixed temporarily. Optionally, the assembly line 100 also includes a spatially planned cavity or an assembly clearance 110 below the alignment/support level of the respective intermediate module, in particular a clearance below the floor level, so that the intermediate modules can also be advantageously arranged flat above the floor when aligned horizontally (both for the module-specific assembly and for completing the entire support structure by connecting/marrying the individual modules).

The following geometric references facilitate the understanding of the present invention: horizontal position/orientation Pxy of the platform section of the corresponding head module; inclined position/orientation Pα of the platform section of the corresponding head module; distance between reference point or reference recess and mounting point (in particular distance in side wall plane); joint plane E11; crossbar plane; connection plane E18 defined by connection interface of coupled modules; E30 connection plane defined by module connection process arrangement; predefined assembly axis/direction X100 (axial orientation of an assembly line);

The "joint plane" is to be understood as an end face defined at least by the supporting structure ends of the respective module, on/in which a connection is provided in an abutting arrangement with the adjacent module, and the "connection plane" is to be understood in a narrower sense, also in a mathematical/geometric sense, as a plane in which the respective applied connecting means is to be arranged or at least to act. In this respect, several Connecting means may be provided which are arranged to axially overlap the joint plane(s) in several connecting planes which are oriented parallel and/or orthogonal to one another, or which act in each of these planes.

In the following, individual process steps are roughly explained in a chronology that is advantageous for the process described here: The material intended for the creation of the support structure, in particular in the form of a flat material, is subjected to material processing (step S1) comprising a material recess, in particular by laser cutting; this processing step is preferably carried out when the flat material is arranged on a work table. In this way, in particular the essential sections of the respective side wall (unit) can also be created. This is followed by a material-locking connection (step S2), in particular welding with a comparable arrangement of the flat material (on a/the same) work table. For example, butt welding can also be carried out in the area of the bend, in particular after the corresponding adjacent longitudinal sections of the head module in question have been positively positioned relative to one another on correspondingly introduced form-fitting contours. A module-specific assembly (step S3) of at least the most important supporting structure components (side wall units or at least side walls and crossbars) can then take place, optionally in the same plane or on the work table (or in its extension) that was used for steps S1 and/or S2. This is then preferably followed by arranging and aligning (or relative positioning) several modules (step S4) in such a way that the modules can remain in the selected relative arrangement to one another during the further course of the production process, i.e. are already arranged in a row one behind the other in such an order that the entire supporting structure can be assembled without further repositioning of the individual modules in the longitudinal direction (no change in the order along the assembly line). Now, module-specific handling and module-specific assembly (step S5) of, for example, built-in components can be provided, with the respective module being advantageously aligned, in particular in a horizontal plane (head modules with their platform section in horizontal alignment). A preferably form-fitting/non-positive connection of several modules (step S6) can then be carried out to form the supporting structure of the entire guideway device, whereby the head modules are preferably only tilted about a reference axis to align the inclined section of the respective head module in a/the horizontal plane in which the intermediate module is/remains preferably arranged. The guideway device can then be completed (step S7), e.g. by further assembly measures, for example relating to the balustrade or a completion of rotating drive or handrail components or installation of the steps (the latter can optionally be done on a module-specific basis).

Steps S4 to S6 and optionally also S7 are preferably carried out in the same assembly line, i.e. with the order of the individual modules unchanged and with aligned alignment in the longitudinal direction of the assembly line. In steps S4 to S6, reference is preferably made to reference recesses provided integrally in the respective module-specific support structure, with these reference recesses preferably being introduced in step S1 in a module-specific manner.

In the following, special features of the invention are explained with reference to individual figures or embodiments.

In Fig.1 A conventional orientation of an escalator 3 in the manner of a lying Z-letter is illustrated. In this orientation, however, many assembly and handling processes are disadvantageously complicated.

In the Fig. 2A , 2B the two head modules 11a, 11b of a modularly available guideway device are shown in an arrangement resting on support and movement devices 40a, 40b and with the respective platform section 11.1 in at least approximately, preferably exactly horizontal alignment (horizontal plane Exy). In this arrangement/alignment, for example, the installation of drive components or other installation components is also considerably easier.

Fig.3 illustrates, among other things, the process-related advantage associated with the present invention of an advantageous arrangement/alignment of the individual modules on the one hand in a phase of module-specific assembly/mounting, on the other hand also in/for an assembly line 100 for the assembly of the entire support structure or the complete guideway device. In the Fig.3 In the relative arrangement shown, the individual modules are still accessible from the front and advantageously aligned (in particular exactly horizontally), nevertheless the modules can be brought into a final relative position by a comparatively slim process by a comparatively short/small translation movement (x) and by tilting (head modules), in particular about the reference axes (y) provided integrally by the side wall units described here, and can be positioned/held there comparatively exactly (as e.g. in the Fig.6 shown relative position).

From the Fig. 4A , 4B , 4C further details of the supporting structure 15 of the respective module 11a, 11b, 11c are shown. The structural features are already described in detail elsewhere; in this respect, no further details can be given with regard to the Figures 4 It should also be mentioned here that the individual longitudinal section modules can be connected to form the entire support structure either in the raw state of the module-specific support structures or with fittings already created therein, depending on the desired process design. The pairwise connection/marriage of adjacent modules takes place by means of the sheet metal connections described here, in particular at least in the area of the respective upper/lower chord, preferably in at least two fastening levels, preferably in a form-fitting/non-positive manner such that the sheet metal connections connect the modules to one another in a force-fitting/friction-fitting manner.

From the Fig. 5A , 5B , 5C Further details regarding the overall structure of the guideway device and its installation components connected to the support structure 15 are apparent with reference to the respective module 11a, 11b, 11c. The associated structural and procedural advantages of the present invention are already described in detail elsewhere here; in this respect, with regard to the Figures 5 It should also be mentioned here that the relative arrangement and alignment of the individual modules for the purpose of connecting/marrying the modules with one another can optionally also be carried out using the floor-mounted rails 101 shown here, or alternatively using side stop units 101.1 or similar assembly/alignment aids. It is worth mentioning that assembly aids are not necessarily required which protrude above the modules in height or are provided overhead on the ceiling of a machine hall, so that the entire support structure can be assembled solely on the ground or supported against the ground (see also the description of the longitudinal section module connection arrangement 40).

Regarding the Figures 4 and 5 It is worth mentioning that the respective side wall is optionally designed completely as a flat material section with recesses made in it (e.g. laser-cut recesses that result in an X-arrangement of diagonal strut sections, e.g. laser-cut X-contour), or has diagonal struts designed as welded profiles (in particular folded U-profiles), which interact with the flat material or are integrated into the structure via flat material sections. A combination of these two alternative designs along a single module or individually for each module along the The entire track system can be realized. This variation option particularly affects the Figures 4B , 5B shown configurations or embodiments.

In Fig.6 individual modules 11a, 11b, 11c, 11c' of a guideway device 10 are shown in a phase of the assembly process in which the adjacent and to be connected joint planes are already aligned parallel to one another, in particular in that the head modules 11a, 11b are/were tilted about the reference axes provided integrally by the side wall units of the respective module and supported on the support and movement devices 40a, 40b, optionally using a lifting/tilting kinematics 41, which can be activated or operated, for example, by means of a tilting device 42 provided on the respective support and movement device. Optionally, a hoist can also be provided, depending on the equipment of a machine hall. Advantageously, handling can also be ensured by means of the tilting device(s) 42 indicated here, even without a crane or load transfer means arranged above the modules; This also increases variability/flexibility and occupational safety, thus also reducing the safety requirements placed on the process.

In Fig.7 Seven steps of a process for creating a guideway device described here are explained by way of example, the present invention being based primarily on steps S5, S6, S7, in particular step S6. Firstly, material processing (step S1 ) takes place, comprising a material recess, in particular by laser cutting, in particular relating to the essential sections of the respective side wall (unit). This is followed by a material-locking connection (step S2 ), in particular of flat material sections. This can then be followed by a module-specific assembly (step S3 ) of at least the most important support structure components (side wall units or at least side walls and cross bars). This is then preferably followed by arranging and aligning (or relative positioning) of several modules (step S4 ) in such a way that the modules can remain in the selected relative arrangement to one another during the further course of the creation process, in particular with the intermediate module and the respective platform section in a precisely horizontal alignment. Now, module-specific handling and module-specific assembly (step S5 ) of, for example, built-in components can be provided first; in particular, drive components and guide rails are mounted. A preferably form-fitting/non-positive connection of several modules (step S6 ) can then be carried out to form the supporting structure of the entire guideway device, wherein the head modules are preferably only tilted about a/the corresponding reference axis Y17 for this purpose, in order to align the joint plane of the respective module in particular in an at least approximately vertical Connection level. The positive/non-positive connection can be made using optionally pre-assembled sheet metal connections 31, in particular in the area of the respective upper/lower chord 17.7, 17.9; for this process, the respective module can remain arranged on the support and movement devices 40a, 40b of the longitudinal section module connection arrangement 40 described here and can be held in position by means of the corresponding lifting/tilting actuators (bearing around the corresponding reference axis Y17). In particular, the head module is first connected to the adjacent intermediate module ( Fig. 8B ), and then at least one further module with this intermediate module ( Fig. 8C ). The guideway device can then be completed (step S7 ), e.g. by further assembly measures, for example concerning the balustrade or completion of the peripheral drive or handrail components or installation of the steps.

Steps S4 to S6 and optionally also S7 are preferably carried out in the same assembly line 100, with the order of the individual modules unchanged and with aligned alignment in the longitudinal direction X100 of the assembly line, wherein during alignment, support and positioning reference is made to the reference recesses provided integrally in the respective module-specific support structure; in addition to the support and movement devices 40a, 40b described here, the longitudinal section module connection arrangement 40 has, for example, only floor-fixed or otherwise floor-bound guides or side stop units or similar assembly aids for setting the aligned longitudinal alignment for all modules.

As regards step S6, this step or process can be divided into the following steps, which are explained in detail here using the example of final assembly of the support structure without using a pit: step S6.1 (optional: attaching adapter plates), step S6.2 (arranging/tilting the lower head module), step S6.3 (optional: inserting/placing the lower head module in adapter plates), step S6.4 (connecting/marrying the lower head module with the adjacent intermediate module), step S6.5 (arranging/tilting the lower head module together with the intermediate module), step S6.6 (arranging/tilting the upper head module with its inclined section aligned with the longitudinal extension of the intermediate module), step S6.7 (optional: inserting/placing the upper head module in adapter plates on the intermediate module, or vice versa), step S6.8 (connecting/marrying the upper head module with the intermediate module).

In case a pit can/should be used, the corresponding steps can be varied accordingly, especially regarding the alignment of the intermediate module and the Height position of the head module; advantageously, only step S6.5 is adapted by arranging the lower head module together with the intermediate module without tilting the lower head module and intermediate module, because the upper head module can be arranged with its inclined section flush (in particular strictly horizontal) with the intermediate module without the alignment of the intermediate module having to be adjusted; the height position of the upper head module does not have to be noticeably changed either.

From the Fig. 8A , 8B , 8C individual handling steps for step S6 are visible: the modules 11a, 11b, 11c, which are each stored module-specifically in the support and movement devices 40a, 40b in alignment in the assembly direction X100 on the assembly line 100, are initially arranged at a distance from one another, then are stored in pairs adjacent to one another by translating and tilting (pivoting) at least the respective head module 11a, 11b about the corresponding module-specific reference axes Y17 provided by the side wall units 17. The individual support and movement devices 40a, 40b can be positioned axially relative to one another in the axial direction, e.g. by means of spacers; optionally, an adjustment in the transverse direction also takes place before or after this, e.g. with reference to a fixed point in the machine hall (e.g. door frame).

In Fig. 8C the module connections 30 or the individual sheet metal connections 31 already mounted between the head module 11a and the intermediate module 11c are indicated. It should only be mentioned at this point that the connecting means 37 described here can be mounted in the direction of the respective fastening axis 34, in particular in at least approximately horizontal direction and in at least approximately vertical direction, manually and/or at least partially with robotic support, e.g. by applying a tool for fixing locking ring bolts.

In Fig.9 an assembly line 100 is shown on which three groups of longitudinal section modules are arranged in series in the intended order. Fig.9 therefore also shows three phases, whereby the connecting/marrying of the modules (step S6) only takes place in the third phase shown, i.e. after relative arrangement and alignment (step S4) and module-specific assembly (step S5) have taken place. For step S6, it is advantageous if the head module can be pivoted with its free end into a floor recess or pit 110, in particular since the entire horizontal working plane Exy can then remain comparatively low for the entire assembly process (i.e. also for previous steps). However, such a ground-based device is not necessarily required; optionally, the support and movement devices 40a, 40b of the longitudinal section module connection arrangement 40 also have lifting devices which enable the horizontal working plane Exy to be raised, in particular in such a way that the free end of the downwardly pivoted head module remains above the ground.

In the Figures 10A to 10E are illustrated in individual phases of step S6; first, according to sub-step S6.1, adapter plates are attached, in particular, to two reference recesses at least on the intermediate module 11c; then, according to sub-step S6.2, Fig. 10A, 10B an arrangement/tilting of the lower head module 11b until its inclined section is horizontal; then (optionally) according to sub-step S6.3, the lower head module is inserted/placed in adapter plates on the intermediate module 11c, or vice versa - optionally this sub-step is carried out without the use of adapter plates; then according to sub-step S6.4, the lower head module 11b is connected/married to the adjacent intermediate module 11c; then according to sub-step S6.5, according to Fig. 10C, 10D an arrangement/tilting of the lower head module 11b together with the intermediate module 11c; then according to sub-step S6.6 according to Fig. 10D an arrangement/tilting of the upper head module 11a with its inclined section aligned with the longitudinal extension of the intermediate module 11c; then according to sub-step S6.7 according to Fig. 10E an insertion/deposition of the upper head module 11a in the adapter plates mounted on the reference recesses of the side wall units of the intermediate module on the intermediate module 11c, or vice versa; then, according to sub-step S6.8, Fig. 10E a connection/marriage of the upper head module 11a with the intermediate module 11c. It is worth mentioning that in sub-step according to Fig. 10D advantageously, adapter plates can be used which are designed in such a way that guide bolts mounted on the corresponding head module can be used as counter-coupling components; this makes it easy to retrofit mounting aids to the respective module depending on the situation or process without complex mounting aids, depending on whether this is necessary or advantageous or not (here, for example, depending on whether a pit can/should be used)

In the Figures 11A to 11F an advantageous design of support and movement devices 40a, 40b is described. A traverse tree 51 rests on supports 57, which are positioned on a/the respective positioning unit 50 by means of mounting brackets 55. The respective traverse tree 51 can advantageously be formed by angle profiles 51.1 (L or U profiles), in particular in the form of a welded construction. Structurally reinforcing flat irons 51.3 or similar load-bearing means can be provided on the upper side (support) of the respective traverse tree 51 (e.g. welded-on 8 mm flat irons).

For example, the traverse trees 51 provided for the respective upper head module are made of laser-cut L-angles made of 8 mm sheet steel, which are welded together. This design is particularly advantageous in connection with the requirement that the upper head module should be arranged higher on the respective positioning unit 50 than the corresponding lower head module and the intermediate module due to the downward-facing bevel (kink). For the latter, the respective traverse tree can advantageously (alternatively) also be formed by a U-profile, in particular from laser-cut 8 mm sheet metal.

The respective truss tree rests, for example, loosely on the corresponding support 57 without additional fixation; the respective mounting bracket 55 is connected to the support, e.g. screwed, and prevents the truss tree from slipping/shifting

The corresponding side support unit 44 can also be manufactured as a laser-cut L-angle made of e.g. 8mm sheet metal and connected to the truss tree, in particular screwed. The through bolts 46 already described elsewhere here, which act in the corresponding reference recess 17.3 of the respective module, prevent a relative displacement of the respective module.

The components of the respective positioning unit 50 described here can be provided at advantageously low production costs, in particular if these components are all made of e.g. 8 mm sheet steel; in this respect, too, minimal set-up effort can be ensured.

In the Fig. 12A , 12B , 12C the application of one or more adapter plates 60 is illustrated in detail; the respective adapter plates 60 are fastened with paired coupling points to two reference recesses of a respective side wall of the corresponding module, so that the guide 61 converging/tapering in the module's longitudinal direction leads to a/the desired coupling point 65a defined by the end position of the guide; the end position (target position for the corresponding reference recess of the adjacent module or of a reference bolt mounted thereon) is indicated here by a dashed circle ( Fig. 12C ). The adapter plates 60 can be used for the desired axial positioning; optionally, the corresponding reference bolts can also have a shoulder or similar reference edge, by means of which a positioning reference can also be provided in the transverse direction, in particular relative to the inside or outside of the adapter plate.

In particular, when the figures and the present description are viewed together, the concept according to the invention also becomes apparent in the overall context of the manufacture of guideway devices (in particular escalators), whereby it becomes clear how an advantageous symbiosis of process-related special features and design features can be realized, which also facilitate the final assembly and handling of the support structure formed over the entire length of the guideway device in a comparatively lean process and with comparatively little device-related effort with regard to assembly aids.

List of reference symbols

1

ground, floor, subsurface, machine hall floor level or similar.

3

Escalator with standard construction

10

Travel device, in particular escalator device

11

Longitudinal section module

11a

Head module, especially upper head module

11b

Head module, especially lower head module

11.1

Platform section or landing section or first longitudinal section or final section

11.11

Support point

11.1a

free end of the podium section

11.2

Transition area from the platform section to the inclined section

11.3

Inclined section (intended inclined orientation) or second longitudinal section

11c

Longitudinal section module, namely intermediate module (at least one), in particular straight module without kink

11c'

additional intermediate module to be connected to an intermediate module (for intended inclined alignment)

11.4

Front end

12

balustrade

13

Handrail

14

Ground unit

15

Supporting structure of the respective module or longitudinal section (in particular with a truss configuration provided at least in sections)

15.1

Tolerance-minimized (middle) height section of the supporting structure or side wall

15a, 15b

upper and lower height sections of the supporting structure

15.3

Structure section

16

Support structure unit

16.1

Traverse element, support element (e.g. cross beam), especially with hollow profile

16.1a

Profile (section) with hollow cross-section, in particular sheet metal profile, e.g. square tube profile (section)

16.2

Recess (free space) in the area of a connection interface/level

17

Side wall unit, in particular with at least one curved profile section

17a, 17b

Side wall

17.1

Reference point in side wall

17.3

Reference recess (especially laser cut)

17.7

Upper belt, upper belt section

17.9

Lower belt, lower belt section

18

Connection interface, especially flat

30

(load-)bearing module connection (positive and/or force-fitting)

31

Sheet metal connection, especially sheet metal angle unit or plate unit

31.1

Butt plate for positive/positive connection (positive and/or non-positive)

31a

Interior angle or plate, especially curved angle piece

31b

Angle/elbow piece, especially in curved design

32

Counter plate

34

Mounting axis (defined by sheet metal connection and supporting structure)

37

Fasteners, in particular screw connections or rivet connections

40

Longitudinal section module connection arrangement, or module connection process arrangement

40a, 40b

(first, second) support and movement device (support, assembly aid)

41

Lifting or tilting kinematics

42

Tilting device for moving/tilting/positioning a/the platform section of the (upper or lower) head module into an inclined position

43

Wheel or roller

44

Side support unit, in particular with predefined coupling points (assembly aid)

45

Coupling point on side support unit

46

Coupling unit, e.g. plug-in coupling bolt

50

Positioning unit (especially with guides or plug connections on alignment plates)

51

Truss tree

51.1

Angle profile, U-profile

51.3

Flat iron

53

Guide or connector(s)

55

Mounting bracket

57

In stock

60

Adapter plate

61

converging/tapering leadership

65

Coupling point on adapter plate

65a

Coupling point on adapter plate, defined by end position in guide

100

Assembly line for the assembly of supporting structures (process/production line)

101

Alignment device, especially floor-mounted rail

101.1

Side stop (in the direction transverse to the longitudinal extension of the respective module)

110

Cavity or installation space below the alignment/support plane of the intermediate module, in particular space below ground level

Pxy

horizontal position/orientation of the platform section of the head module

Pα

inclined position/orientation of the platform section of the head module

α

Slope between platform section and inclined section

E1

Floor level, e.g. level of a machine/assembly hall

E11

Impact plane

E18

Connection level defined by connection interface of coupled modules

E30

Connection level defined by module connection process arrangement

Exy

Alignment/support height level of the intermediate module, especially horizontal

S1

Material processing comprising a material recess

S2

material bonding, especially welding

S3

Module-specific assembly of supporting structure components

S4

Arranging and aligning (relative positioning) multiple modules

S5

Module-specific handling and assembly of e.g. built-in components

S6

Connecting several modules to form the entire supporting structure

S6.1

Attaching adapter plates, especially to two reference recesses each

S6.2

Arrange/tilt the lower head module until the sloped section is horizontal

S6.3

optional: Inserting/depositing the lower head module into adapter plates on the intermediate module, or vice versa

S6.4

Connecting/marrying the lower head module with the adjacent intermediate module

S6.5

Arranging/tilting lower head module together with intermediate module

S6.6

Arranging/tilting the upper head module with its inclined section aligned with the longitudinal extension of the intermediate module

S6.7

Inserting/removing the upper head module into adapter plates on the intermediate module, or vice versa

S6.8

Connecting/marrying the upper head module with the intermediate module

S7

Completing the guideway device, e.g. through further assembly measures

X100

predefined assembly axis/direction (axial alignment of an assembly line)

Y17

structurally resilient reference axis, especially for tilting movements

x, y, z

horizontal longitudinal direction, transverse direction, vertical direction

Claims (15)

Method for assembling a modular guideway device (10) by providing and connecting at least two longitudinal section modules (11) of the guideway device, wherein the guideway device (10) is provided in a modular configuration with at least three separate longitudinal section modules (11) consisting of two head modules (11a, 11b) and at least one intermediate module (11c, 11c'), wherein before carrying out the connection/marriage of load-bearing support structures (15) of the longitudinal section modules (11), the support structure of at least one of the head modules (11a, 11b), in particular initially the intended lower head module (11b), is arranged in an orientation and/or arrangement that matches the orientation/arrangement of the support structure (15) of the at least one intermediate module (11c). Method according to claim 1, wherein before the support structures (15) of the at least three longitudinal section modules (11) are connected/married, the two head modules (11a, 11b) with their support structures (15) are arranged and aligned in an orientation and/or arrangement for the final assembly which corresponds to the orientation of the at least one intermediate module (11c, 11c') provided between the head modules, in particular by aligning a/the pedestal section (11.1) of the respective head module (11a, 11b) at least approximately horizontally and a/the connecting inclined section (11.3) of the respective head module inclined obliquely upwards or downwards. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a respective longitudinal section module (11) is arranged and supported in a module-specific manner by means of at least one supporting and moving device (40a, 40b) and is preferably supported in reference points (17.1) provided integrally on the support structure (15) of the longitudinal section module (11). Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein after the modular assembly of each longitudinal section module (11), the support structures (15) of adjacent longitudinal section modules (11) are connected/married to one another in pairs; and/or wherein at least one of the head modules (11a, 11b) is tilted from a horizontal orientation of a/the platform section (11.1) of the head module selected for the upstream assembly into an inclined orientation of the platform section, so that a/the connecting inclined section (11.3) of the head module is aligned horizontally and is aligned with the longitudinal orientation of the intermediate module (11c), wherein the tilting movement is preferably carried out by means of a tilting device/tilting kinematics (41, 42), wherein the tilting movement is preferably carried out after the module-specific assembly from module to module (11) and immediately before the modules (11) are connected. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a respective longitudinal section module (11) is arranged and supported by means of at least one support and movement device (40, 40b) and is optionally also movable relative to the ground by means of the support and movement device, wherein the support and movement device (40a, 40b) is configured for horizontally aligning a/the platform section (11.1) and/or a/the inclined section (11.3) of the head module (11a, 11b), and wherein a/the support and movement device (40a, 40b) is preferably configured for inclining/tilting the head module by a minimum tilt angle. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the respective head module (11a, 11b) is arranged and supported by means of a support and movement device (40a, 40b) which is designed such that a/the pedestal section (11.1) of the head module can be tilted from a horizontal orientation into an inclined orientation, so that a/the connecting inclined section (11.3) of the head module is/will be aligned horizontally and is/will be aligned in the longitudinal orientation of the intermediate module (11c). Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the head modules (11a, 11b) with its platform section (11.1) is tilted towards the ground and aligned such that a/the platform section of the head module is arranged in an inclined orientation in a designated angular oblique arrangement with the structurally predefined angle of inclination (a) at least below the alignment/support plane of the intermediate module (11c), optionally below the subsurface/floor. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the head modules (11a, 11b) and the at least one intermediate module (11c, 11c') to be arranged between them of the guideway device (10) to be assembled are stored, supported and aligned one after the other in the correct order; and/or wherein the longitudinal section modules (11) of several guideway devices (10) are stored, supported and aligned one after the other in the correct order along a/the same assembly line (100), for example a first guideway device (10) comprising three longitudinal section modules (11a, 11b, 11c) and a second guideway device comprising four longitudinal section modules (11a, 11b, 11c, 11c'). Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one intermediate module (11c) of the guideway device (10) to be constructed is lifted and tilted into such an orientation that a/the upper head module (11a) can be connected to the intermediate module (11c) in an arrangement with its platform section (11.1) in an at least approximately horizontal orientation; or wherein the upper head module (11a) is arranged with its inclined section (11.3) in an at least approximately horizontal orientation such that it can be connected to a/the at least approximately horizontally aligned intermediate module (11c). Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the individual longitudinal section modules (11) are transferred into a longitudinal section module connection arrangement (40), in particular on the same assembly line (100), wherein the longitudinal section modules (11) in the longitudinal section module connection arrangement (40) can be connected to one another in pairs, in particular purely force-fitting/form-fitting without material bonding. Guideway device (10) with at least three interconnected longitudinal section modules (11) consisting of two head modules (11a, 11b) and at least one intermediate module (11c), manufactured by a method according to one of the preceding claims, in particular by positive/non-positive connection of the individual longitudinal section modules (11) in a relative position of the at least three longitudinal section modules forming the guideway device on an assembly line (100) realized by aligning and arranging the longitudinal section modules (11), wherein the guideway device (10) can be supported in a load-bearing manner on at least one support and movement device (40a, 40b) at reference points (17.1) provided integrally on the support structure of a/the respective longitudinal section module. Guideway device according to the preceding device claim, wherein the guideway device (10) is tiltable in the reference points (17.1) provided integrally on the respective support structure (15) about at least one reference axis formed by the reference points. Guideway device according to one of the preceding device claims, wherein a respective longitudinal section module (11) has at least one reference point formed by integrally provided on the support structure (15) of the longitudinal section module and supported by the dead weight of the The guideway device has a loadable reference axis (Y17) on which the longitudinal section module can be supported on at least one support and movement device (40a, 40b), in particular with the number of reference axes (Y17) correlating to the number of support and movement devices (40a, 40b) or similar support points used. Guideway device according to one of the preceding device claims, wherein the guideway device (10) can be supported on at least one support and movement device (40a, 40b) in structurally loadable reference recesses (17.3) integrally introduced into side wall units (17) of the support structure (15) of a/the respective longitudinal section module (11) and can preferably also be tilted about at least one reference axis (Y17) formed by the reference recesses. Use of assembly aids for forming an assembly line (100) for aligning and arranging and feeding a support structure (15) of a guideway device (10) consisting of at least three longitudinal section modules (11) to be connected to one another to a longitudinal section module connection arrangement (40) which is provided for connecting the individual longitudinal section modules (11) in pairs, in particular use of module-specific supporting and movement devices (40a, 40b) and positioning units (50) for supporting and aligning the respective longitudinal section module for carrying out a method according to one of the method claims on the same assembly line (100).

Images