EP4353659A1 - Longitudinal section module connection assembly and method for assembling a modularly constructed roadway device - Google Patents

Abstract

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 or the manufacturing process. According to the invention, a modular concept is provided both with regard to the structural design and with regard to a corresponding assembly method, whereby it is provided that the individual modules are first assembled module-specifically, but are already positioned in an advantageous arrangement and orientation in order to then bring the modules together in this advantageous relative position for the final assembly (in particular connecting/marrying the module-specific support structures) in a longitudinal section module connection arrangement. According to the invention, this can be done on the same assembly line with comparatively little handling effort and high accuracy or minimized position tolerance. In this way, the structural advantages of the modular design of the support structures can also be reflected in the manufacturing process, in particular up to the final assembly phase. The invention further relates to a corresponding longitudinal section module connection arrangement or an assembly line equipped with it.

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

The present invention relates to a longitudinal section module connection arrangement configured for the relative positioning and alignment of at least two longitudinal section modules of a guideway device comprising at least three separate longitudinal section modules comprising two head modules and at least one intermediate module, for assembling the guideway device by connecting/marrying the modules to one another in pairs. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method for assembling at least the support structure(s) of a guideway device by providing at least three longitudinal section modules of the guideway device in a coordinated arrangement and alignment for connecting/marrying the modules to one another in pairs, in particular using such a longitudinal section module connection arrangement in an assembly line. Last but not least, the present invention also relates to the use of a longitudinal section module connection arrangement for carrying out a final assembly of at least support structures of guideway devices by connecting/marrying the corresponding support structure sections in pairs. 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 a particular escalator was comparatively long, especially 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 desired or for an efficient value creation process. This has also meant that a relatively large amount of space has been required to handle and (intermediately) store the escalators or the components and semi-finished products intended for them. 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 implemented structurally. 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 interest in reducing this type/application-related effort to minimize, on the other hand, based on the state of the art, there is also a need for easier standardization of production steps, including in connection with individual assembly steps, or there is a need for more general, pre-definable work processes along the process chain up to the fully assembled/mounted escalator. Last but not least, particularly with regard to occupational safety and the complexity of the work processes, there is also interest in a process that is as safe and reliable as possible without major risks but with minimized error potential.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The task is to provide a method and a corresponding device or structural design or corresponding assembly aids with which escalators or general guideway devices can be assembled as simply as possible. It is also the task to design a concept for the structural design of guideway devices and a dependent assembly/assembly method in such a way that the guideway devices can be manufactured with the highest possible standardization and efficiency on the one hand and with the highest possible variability and the best possible accessibility on the other.

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

The assembly process is described below. This also makes it easier to understand how the longitudinal section module connection arrangement works in the overall context of the manufacturing process.

A method is provided for assembling (in particular final assembly) a guideway device by providing at least three longitudinal section modules of the guideway device in a coordinated arrangement and orientation for connecting/marrying the modules to one another in pairs, wherein the guideway device is provided in a modular configuration with at least three separate longitudinal section modules comprising two head modules and at least one intermediate module, wherein the modules are provided for final assembly for connecting a/the respective support structure of the modules to one another in pairs, wherein one of the head modules is provided in a coordinated arrangement and orientation on a/the first front end side of the at least one intermediate module is arranged and aligned and the other of the head modules is arranged and aligned in a coordinated arrangement and alignment on a/the second front end side of the at least one intermediate module, in each case in an alignment/arrangement that matches the alignment/arrangement of the at least one intermediate module. This provides a particularly advantageous compromise between flexibility and variability on the one hand and standardizability on the other, in particular in connection with manufacturer-internal test runs or run-in processes (test commissioning of the respective guideway device). The arrangement/alignment can preferably be carried out by means of module-specific positioning units in combination with module-specific support and movement devices, in which tilting kinematics can preferably be implemented.

According to the invention, it is therefore proposed to enable positioning and displacement on a module-specific basis and in coordination with one another of the individual modules, in particular by means of module-specific assembly aids which can be aligned relative to one another, for example with respect to side stops or similar absolute position references.

In this case, a distinction is made (in terms of process) with regard to, on the one hand, module-specific assembly steps and alignment/positioning measures and, on the other hand, assembly steps and alignment/positioning measures relating to the entire guideway device (i.e. the at least three longitudinal section modules), whereby the present invention is also based on the concept of being able to carry out both steps/measures in a single or in the same assembly line.

The term "assembly line" is to be understood here in particular as a predefined path for the process chain from module-specific measures on the separate module to the completed support structure consisting of all (at least three) modules. In the narrower sense, the assembly line is aligned in a strictly axial line, so it does not require lateral relocation or an azimuth angle change of the longitudinal alignment of the individual modules along the assembly line. The assembly line can be designed to be comparatively slim, i.e. it can only include comparatively few or small or inexpensive assembly aids, and can also be implemented, for example, decoupled from any specific design of a machine hall floor (e.g. no guide rails embedded in the floor or attached to the floor).

The term "longitudinal section module connection arrangement" is defined here in particular as a detached or independent of a specific configuration of assembly halls or similar facilities provideable arrangement of assembly aids, which can be integrated into a production line in the most flexible way possible. At least some of the assembly aids are preferably designed for coupling-positioning interaction with reference recesses provided integrally in the support structure of the respective module.

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.

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, the present invention provides an advantageous process and an advantageous device design, in particular such that the respective longitudinal section module can be arranged and connected or supported in a predefined/predefinable manner with respect to the relative position to at least one other longitudinal section module (in particular by means of several support and movement devices), so that a comparatively high degree of accuracy can be ensured when positioning relative to one another. 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 pairs of modules easier, in particular when arranged in alignment on an assembly line from the time of module-specific assembly, in particular when the intermediate module and the respective end section of the head modules are aligned horizontally.

It has been shown that the modular design of the support structure of the individual modules described here offers process-related advantages (particularly with regard to handling individual longitudinal sections) when the support structure can be handled as efficiently and precisely as possible during the manufacture of the guideway device. This is because the following advantages can then be achieved particularly effectively and noticeably: ergonomics, occupational safety, assembly efficiency, advantageous use of space. Since many manufacturing processes require the entire guideway device to be assembled at least once in the respective factory (manufacturing facility), in particular for the purpose of a test run, great advantages can also be achieved when viewed as a whole in terms of the output of a manufacturing facility, even if this process, also referred to here as the final assembly of the support structure, can be carried out very efficiently and as precisely reproducibly as possible. In this context, the Findings have been developed that a longitudinal section module connection arrangement designed for this purpose (or a corresponding section of a production line with the same effect) advantageously has the following components: positioning system for the individual modules, in particular comprising guides or plugs on alignment plates (in particular in the sense of assembly aids provided at the factory, which are preferably compatible with a position reference coupling on the respective module); a first support and movement device, in particular with lifting/tilting kinematics, set up for positioning and aligning the upper head module for connection to the at least one horizontally oriented intermediate module; a second support and movement device, in particular with lifting/tilting kinematics, set up for positioning and aligning the lower head module for connection to the at least one horizontally oriented intermediate module;

By means of such a longitudinal section module connection arrangement, the advantages of modular production can be used and, for example, customer requirements with regard to test runs or similar preliminary measures in the factory can be met in a simple manner; in particular, this also makes it possible to prepare commissioning at the customer's site in more detail, so that synergy effects can also be expected subsequently when the respective guideway device is delivered.

For the purposes 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 means) 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 are usually formed from two side wall units lying opposite one another and connected to one another via crossbeams and optionally also a floor unit, and can also comprise struts arranged in a lattice-like manner. The term "guideway device" also refers in particular to modularly constructed guideway devices which are modularly constructed from several longitudinal sections or longitudinal section modules, each with an individual or longitudinal section-specific support structure and which can be assembled/mounted modularly.

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 possibility applies, for example, to the individual steps/pallets; in this respect, too, the use of the term "assembly" is not to be understood as restrictive with regard to certain phases of the process of creating the complete guideway device or its supporting structure.

According to the present disclosure, "marriage" 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 complete component of the guideway device in the corresponding length range, at least in structural terms). 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/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 refer either to a longitudinal section module or to 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 a 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 mentioned 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 kink); 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-to-material connection of these longitudinal sections to create the entire support 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 away, 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 formed from 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 alignment. absorb (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 therefore designed, for example, as a closed surface, as a pure truss or as a structure with parts (or sections) of closed surfaces and parts with a truss 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 upper and lower belts, and the term side wall can refer to the side structure arranged between the upper and lower belts.

The terms upper chord and lower chord, which are also referred to together as belts, refer here to structural parts/elements or corresponding load-bearing sections extending in the longitudinal direction in the area of an upper edge or a lower edge of the side wall 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 belts 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 designed as one piece with the side wall, for example by bending the side wall. Particularly preferably, the upper chord is designed as a hollow profile with four walls, with two walls extending from the L-shaped bent, in this area made of flat material and two further walls are formed by a flat material component that is also bent in an L-shape and separate from the side wall. Furthermore, the lower flange is preferably designed in a similar manner as a hollow profile with four walls, with two walls being formed by the side wall that is bent in an L-shape and made of flat material in this area and two walls being formed by the base unit that is also bent in an L-shape and made of flat material in this area. The components forming the walls are preferably welded to one another. The upper flange and/or the lower flange can also be provided entirely in one piece with the side wall or entirely separately from the side wall (particularly in the sense 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 a so-called locking ring bolt connection, in particular in connection with a connection between modules, whereby the connecting means are applied, for example, for sheet metal connections for the force-fitting connection of the support structures of adjacent modules. 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 also comprises at least one visual inspection marking, in particular one that lifts off the material. In this way, the assembly of the individual support structure sections is also designed to be particularly flexible and variable.

It is worth mentioning that the present invention is based in particular on the concept that at least a substantial and overall shape-defining portion of a side wall, a Upper chord, a lower chord and/or the entire side wall unit is made of flat material, in particular sheet metal, wherein at least one reference point is preferably defined on the flat material. By means of processing methods available today for flat materials, in particular by processing using laser cutting tools, reference can be made to at least one correspondingly introduced reference point in 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 produced 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 further 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 thereon or lifted or tilted around this axis. At least a significant portion of an upper chord or a lower chord can also 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 mounted in the respective guideway devices or in the respective modules of the guideway device, e.g. concerning electrical components, Drive, guide or the like. If a load-bearing function is to be fulfilled by a structural component, in particular for the intended continuous load, the supporting structure is referred to as "load-bearing components" or structural parts/elements/sections.

According to one embodiment, at least one of the head modules is tilted from an oblique/inclined arrangement of its connecting oblique section into a horizontal arrangement of the oblique section and is thereby aligned horizontally in a coordinated arrangement and alignment on the first front end side of the at least one intermediate module, in particular in the case of a module-specific arrangement on a support and movement device. Last but not least, this also enables flexible specification of the time and the relative position for the tilting process.

According to one embodiment, both head modules are tilted from an inclined arrangement of the respective connecting inclined section to a horizontal arrangement of the inclined section (in particular in opposite directions) and are thereby aligned horizontally in a coordinated arrangement and orientation on opposite end faces of the at least one intermediate module, each in an orientation/arrangement that matches the (at least approximately) horizontal orientation/arrangement of the at least one intermediate module. Thanks to the mounting/assembly concept according to the invention, this can be done either in temporal/spatial coordination or independently of one another on a module-specific basis.

In this case, one of the head modules can be tilted from an oblique arrangement of its connecting oblique section into a horizontal orientation of the oblique section and the other of the head modules can be tilted from an oblique arrangement of its connecting oblique section into a horizontal orientation of the oblique section, wherein the tilting directions can be the same and wherein the tilting axes can run parallel to one another, and wherein the respective module is tilted about a/the tilting axis arranged on the side of the oblique section. The tilting axis can be formed, for example, by reference points provided in side wall units of the respective module (e.g. by laser-cut reference recesses).

According to one embodiment, all longitudinal section modules, i.e. the at least one intermediate module as such and the head modules each with their platform section, are arranged in an at least approximately horizontal alignment in one plane before the support structures of the modules are connected to each other in pairs. This also promotes standardization and enables the modules to be aligned flush in an advantageously flat/deep mounting plane.

According to one embodiment, the head modules are tilted into the alignment plane of the at least one intermediate module in such a way that the support structure of a/the corresponding connecting inclined section of the respective head module is brought into alignment with the alignment plane of the support structure of the intermediate module, in particular by raising the head modules at reference points/axes integrated in their side wall units. This can be done in a particularly advantageous manner in conjunction with a tilting movement about a structurally predefined tilting/reference axis.

The respective longitudinal section module can be arranged and aligned in coordination with at least one of the other longitudinal section modules, in particular by means of a positioning unit that can be controlled individually for each longitudinal section module.

The upper head module can be tilted against the ground or into a pit in a particularly advantageous manner (in particular without having to be lifted) if it is mounted at corresponding reference points around a/the reference axis in the area of the inner end pointing to the corresponding intermediate module (front side of the inclined section). Alternatively, the upper head module can be tilted against the ground in a particularly advantageous manner (in particular by also being lifted) if it is mounted at corresponding reference points around a/the reference axis in the area of the outer end (front side of the platform section). In this respect, the head modules advantageously have reference axes on both front sides, which are provided integrally by the side wall units or on corresponding flat material sections.

According to one embodiment, the respective head module is held in a predetermined, predefined relative position relative to the (corresponding) intermediate module with the inclined section in at least approximately horizontal alignment axially aligned with the axial alignment of the intermediate module, for positive/non-positive connection (marriage) with the (corresponding) intermediate module, in particular by means of at least one tilting and holding device for moving/tilting/positioning a/the platform section of the upper or lower head module into the inclined position (angle of inclination a). This also makes it possible to use a good lever arm and ensure good accuracy, in particular in connection with positive/non-positive connecting means (e.g. screws, classic rivets, locking ring bolts) on the respective Connection interface. The respective module is advantageously mounted around two reference axes that are as far apart as possible in the longitudinal direction and are provided in side wall units of the respective module, e.g. provided by laser-cut recesses when the respective side wall unit is created. This further improves the achievable accuracy.

According to one embodiment, one of the head modules with its platform section is tilted into a negative height range below the height level of the adjacent intermediate module, optionally into an area below a floor level of a machine hall or the like (i.e., for example, into an assembly pit provided for this purpose). This also makes it possible to use an advantageously low assembly level (close to the ground) for the modules. Optionally, a recess or pit is dispensed with insofar as the assembly level can be raised at least at the end of the manufacturing process described here (in particular with the intermediate module remaining horizontal) or can be tilted by slightly tilting the intermediate module. The person skilled in the art can understand this variation option and use it for optimization in individual cases.

The aforementioned object is also achieved by a longitudinal section module connection arrangement according to the corresponding independent device claim, namely by a longitudinal section module connection arrangement set up for the relative positioning and alignment of at least two longitudinal section modules of a guideway device comprising at least three separate longitudinal section modules comprising two head modules and at least one intermediate module for the assembly (in particular final assembly) of the guideway device by connecting/marrying the modules to one another in pairs, wherein the longitudinal section module connection arrangement is set up for the relative positioning and alignment of the modules in such a way that one of the head modules can be connected to the intermediate module in a coordinated arrangement and alignment on a/the first front end side of the at least one intermediate module and the other of the head modules can be connected to the (corresponding) intermediate module in a coordinated arrangement and alignment on a/the second front end side of the at least one intermediate module, in particular in abutting relationship on the front side, in particular with a predefined/predefinable axial gap/axial distance of the modules to be connected in pairs relative to one another. to each other, in particular also with/through module-specific use of at least one reference axis, as described above, provided integrally in side wall units of the respective module. This results in the aforementioned advantages, in particular with regard to the greatest possible accuracy while at the same time being as simple or slim as possible built-in assembly aids (which can be retrofitted easily and efficiently, for example, even in a poorly equipped machine hall). This can also improve global manufacturing capacity, and logistics costs can also be further reduced.

A "longitudinal section module connection arrangement" is to be understood as an arrangement by means of which or with the help of which at least two longitudinal section modules or their support structures can be connected to one another in pairs, whereby the respective module can be arranged/aligned/positioned and held. In other words: the connection as a specific assembly process can optionally be carried out at least partially by means of the longitudinal section module connection arrangement, optionally the longitudinal section module connection arrangement can be used essentially for arranging and aligning the modules relative to one another, in particular when the connection can/should be carried out essentially by manual steps. Any further upstream or downstream assembly/assembly steps do not necessarily have to be carried out in connection with this longitudinal section module connection arrangement, but can also be implemented on an assembly line relating to a plurality of guideway devices or at least also relating to other installation components. In this respect, the relative alignment of the individual modules is the main focus of the longitudinal section module connection arrangement in functional terms.

For example, in connection with the longitudinal section module connection arrangement, a purely force-fitting/positive connection of the modules is achieved by means of sheet metal connections. In this respect, the longitudinal section module connection arrangement does not necessarily have robotics such as welding machines or similar automated process systems.

According to one embodiment, the longitudinal section module connection arrangement comprises at least one positioning unit configured to position at least one of the modules relative to at least one other of the modules, in particular comprising alignment plates, guides and/or pins. Last but not least, this facilitates easy handling even without bulky assembly aids.

According to one embodiment, the longitudinal section module connection arrangement comprises a first and a second tilting and holding device, each configured to move/tilt/position a/the platform section of the first or second head module into an inclined position, in particular when supported against the ground or against a support and movement device. This can for example, by lowering or raising on one side, whereby storage can take place around a reference axis introduced into the respective module.

According to one embodiment, the longitudinal section module connection arrangement provides at least one positioning unit for each module, wherein the respective positioning unit can be aligned axially in the longitudinal direction against a side stop and/or along at least one rail. This also provides comparatively great independence from specific assembly aids that may not be available everywhere or at all times.

According to one embodiment, the longitudinal section module connection arrangement provides module-specific side support units that are designed to support the respective module laterally against the ground so that it can be tilted about a horizontal axis, in particular at reference points/axes provided integrally in the side wall units of the modules. This also provides further process flexibility. The side support units are preferably designed to be coupled to reference points/axes integrated in the side wall units of the longitudinal section modules and are designed to be supported in a predefined/predefinable relative position on the positioning units relative to the ground. This type of functional integration of the positioning and support and alignment in the positioning units, using the reference points/axes provided by reference recesses on the individual modules, not least promotes a very slim and variable design of assembly aids, in particular without the need for positioning by means of cranes or similar load-lifting and overhead traction devices. This also facilitates the use of the technology described here on a construction site or outdoors, i.e. where there is no machine hall with cranes or load-handling devices arranged overhead on a ceiling.

According to one embodiment, the longitudinal section module connection arrangement provides at least one of the following assembly aids, in particular module-specific: support and movement devices, lifting or tilting kinematics, side support units, positioning units. This not least promotes both module-specific handling and coordination of the positioning process relating to (simultaneous) several modules.

According to one embodiment, the longitudinal section module connection arrangement is/can be integrated into an assembly line already provided for the upstream module-specific handling of the individual longitudinal section modules, in particular with a/the longitudinal alignment of the longitudinal section module connection arrangement aligned with the longitudinal alignment of the assembly line, in particular with the individual support and movement devices and/or positioning units in axial/longitudinal positions predefined relative to one another by reference recesses in the respective longitudinal section module. Last but not least, this also facilitates the implementation of a process that is coherently aligned from module-specific assembly to final assembly with minimal handling and alignment effort (in particular along a single longitudinal axis without the need for lateral displacements). The support and movement devices can also be positioned relative to one another using the modules; in this respect, no further positioning means are required as assembly aids, rather the support structures of the modules themselves can be used via the reference points described here on the respective support structure to position the modules relative to one another.

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 made of preferably 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 is connected to the respective The through bolts described here can also be applied to 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.

It is worth mentioning that 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 also 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 hangs from a crane if necessary, so that the adapter plates can facilitate the alignment or at least the guidance of the module when approaching the adjacent module up to abutment (or up to a gap specified/specifiable 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/force-locking connection concept for marrying the modules can be implemented in a very flexible and variable manner with high precision and with minimal assembly equipment, largely independent of location (i.e. both as a preparatory measure at the manufacturer and on a construction site for final assembly at the destination). The respective adapter plate can easily be provided regardless of location and can also be designed so cost-effectively that even a single use (if not reusable) can be priced in without any problems.

The aforementioned object is also achieved by using a longitudinal section module connection arrangement for carrying out a method described above for assembling at least support structures of longitudinal section modules of a guideway device by connecting/marrying the corresponding support structure section in pairs (in particular by applying non-positively acting sheet metal connections), wherein the longitudinal section module connection arrangement provides at least one of the following assembly aids, in particular module-specific: support and movement devices, lifting or tilting kinematics, side support units, positioning units. In this case, the respective module can preferably be supported and aligned on reference recesses integrally introduced into the side wall units of the respective module.

The aforementioned object is also achieved by an assembly line for assembling guideway devices, with a longitudinal section module connection arrangement described above, set up to carry out a method described above, in particular in connection with the use of support and movement devices, lifting or tilting kinematics, side support units and/or positioning units. This makes it possible to realize the aforementioned advantages, in particular with regard to the greatest possible flexibility/variability on the one hand and maximum accuracy on the other.

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 or the manufacturing process. According to the invention, a modular concept is provided both with regard to the structural design and with regard to a corresponding assembly process, whereby it is provided that the individual modules are initially assembled module-specifically, but are already positioned in an advantageous arrangement and orientation in order to then bring the modules together in this advantageous relative position for the final assembly (in particular connecting/marrying the module-specific support structures) in a longitudinal section module connection arrangement. According to the invention, this can be done on the same assembly line with comparatively little handling effort and high accuracy or minimized position tolerance. This allows the structural advantages of the modular

Construction of the supporting structures can also be reflected in the manufacturing process, in particular up to the final assembly phase. The invention further relates to a corresponding longitudinal section module connection arrangement or an assembly line equipped therewith.

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 in einer Längsabschnittsmodulverbindungsanordnung 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 in perspektivischer Seitenansicht eine Anordnung einzelner Module in einer Längsabschnittsmodulverbindungsanordnung auf einer Montagelinie für den Zusammenbau bzw. für das paarweise Verbinden (Verheiraten) der Tragstrukturabschnitte gemäß Ausführungsbeispielen, wobei der Podestabschnitt des Kopfmoduls sich bis unterhalb der Bodenebene erstreckt;
• Figur 8 eine Abfolge eines Verfahrens für die Erstellung bzw. den Zusammenbau der Tragstruktur gemäß Ausführungsbeispielen, wobei eine exemplarische Unterteilung in sieben Schritte erfolgt;
• Figuren 9A, 9B, 9C, 9D, 9E 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 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 10E, 10F 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 11A, 11B, 11C 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 mounted/supported in two support points in an at least approximately parallel alignment to the ground and are also aligned at least approximately axially flush relative to one another or in a/the 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 in a longitudinal section module connection arrangement 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 be connected to each other in pairs in at least approximately vertically aligned connecting planes;
• Figure 7 in perspective side view an arrangement of individual modules in a longitudinal section module connection arrangement on an assembly line for the assembly or for the pairwise connection (marriage) of the support structure sections according to embodiments, wherein the platform section of the head module extends below the floor level;
• Figure 8 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 9A , 9B , 9C , 9D , 9E 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 10A , 10B , 10C , 10D , 10E , 10F each in a side view (cut or not cut) in a schematic representation of the support and alignment of individual longitudinal section modules, in particular 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 11A , 11B , 11C 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 which can be used, among other things, for this step;

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 is provided (in particular an escalator device) 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 intended horizontal alignment. In a transition area 11.2 (kink point), the platform section changes into an inclined section 11.3 (or second longitudinal section of the respective head module) with intended inclined alignment. At the kink point, the support structure therefore spans an inclination angle 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 on 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 formed from a side wall 17a, 17b and an upper band (upper flange section) 17.7 and a lower band (lower flange section) 17.9 and are connected to one another by means of crossbars 16.1 (e.g. cross members, 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 further 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 kind of standardization of individual, specifically preferred material thicknesses, even in the area of structural stiffeners, which also allows the connection technology used (be it material bonding or force/form bonding) to 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 framework-like configuration of individual strut-like structural sections intended primarily for tensile or compressive loading, whereby such a framework-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 framework-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 is also advantageous with regard to the modular manufacturing concept described here and the 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, for example, two or three meters and can therefore be provided redundantly, optionally also concerning all handling and assembly steps subsequent to 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 or sheet metal connections 31 in a plurality of fastening axes, 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 level Exy of the intermediate module, in particular horizontal; structurally loadable 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 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 specific 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 is to be 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/the 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/the 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 for each connection interface, several individual flange plate couplings (flat, acting two-dimensionally) are also provided, in particular at as far as possible different height positions can be provided. This promotes a high level of positional accuracy and reduces the risk of tilting/tensioning.

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 structural element or section formed from an L-shaped bent flat material and welded to the flat material forming the corresponding side wall 17a, 17b. In the same or comparable For example, on the lower flange 17.9, a first wall is formed 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 precision. 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 couple tolerance-free to the corresponding coupling points 45 of the support and movement devices 40a, 40b). By storing (in particular hanging) the individual longitudinal sections at the corresponding integrally provided reference points 17.1 can be referred to repeatedly and preferably exclusively, in particular in connection with individual assembly and installation steps, in particular also when positioning/aligning additional built-in components, to these positioning reference points 17.1. 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 at least one-layer flat material, preferably by laser cutting, whereby thanks to a comparatively high level of accuracy (in particular in the case of a partially or fully automated material processing process 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 can be positioned/positioned 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). This particularly 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 longitudinal section module connection 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 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 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, inner angle or plate (in particular curved angle piece), angle/angle piece (in particular in a curved design), counter plate. 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 are provided which are defined by the sheet metal connection and the supporting structure, in particular by several (through) holes or optionally fastening holes which are 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 (e.g. 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, wherein 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), wherein 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 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 can be mounted. 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, depending on the preferred design of the assembly method, comprise further positioning units 50 (in particular equipped with guides or plug connections 53 on alignment plates), wherein the respective side support unit 44 preferably couples in a standardized manner to a/the correspondingly provided positioning unit 50. 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 lines), 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 extent of the respective module), which is preferably designed 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 assembly space 110 below the alignment/support plane of the respective intermediate module, in particular a space 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 as well as for completing the entire supporting 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 longitudinal section module connection arrangement; predefined assembly axis/direction X100 (axial orientation of an assembly line);

The "joint plane" is to be understood as an end side defined at least by the ends of the supporting structure 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 should be arranged or at least act. In this respect, several connecting means can be provided which are arranged axially overlapping the joint plane(s) in several connecting planes, e.g. parallel and/or orthogonal to one another, or which act in each case there.

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 adjoining longitudinal sections of the head module in question have been positioned in a form-fitting manner relative to one another on correspondingly introduced form-fitting contours. A module-specific assembly (step S3) of at least the most important support structure components can then take place (side wall units or at least side walls and crossbars), optionally in the same plane or on that work table (or in its extension), which was used for steps S1 and/or S2. This is followed preferably 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 in 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 support 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 completing the peripheral drive or handrail components or installing the steps (the latter can optionally also be carried out 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 travel device are shown in a support and movement devices 40a, 40b supporting arrangement 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 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 longitudinal section module connection arrangement 40 described here is designed by means of the support and movement devices and integrated lifting/tilting kinematics for the relative arrangement and alignment of the support structures of the individual modules for the final assembly, be it in a phase in which only the support structures as such are to be handled, or for handling the support structures together with components attached thereto/into them, such as balustrades and drive components.

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 be mentioned here that the longitudinal section module connection arrangement 40 is designed to arrange and align the modules in such a way that the sheet metal connections 31 in the respective Fastening level(s) E18 can be applied, in particular by applying form-fitting/non-positive fastening means manually or at least partially with robot support.

It is worth mentioning that the respective side wall is optionally designed 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 entire guideway device is also possible. This variation option also applies in particular to 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 Components of the longitudinal section module connection arrangement 40 described here are shown, whereby the individual modules have already undergone the process of module-specific handling and module-specific installation of module-specific components, and are therefore in the phase of pair-wise connection/marriage and final assembly. The individual modules are already provided with the balustrade 12, and the head modules also already have the comb plate. In this relative arrangement/alignment of the modules ensured by the longitudinal section module connection arrangement 40, the sheet metal connections 31 described here can be easily connected by means of positive/non-positive connection means (in particular locking ring bolts) can be applied at a variety of positions, in particular on the upper and lower chords, as well as in a variety of fastening planes defined by the corresponding flat material sections, in particular for essentially frictionally connecting adjacent modules. For example, the individual modules can be brought to the desired relative distance from one another in the longitudinal direction by moving the modules against one another until they dock onto axial spacers, which can be provided, for example, in the form of adapter plates and a coupling point designed thereon (e.g. end position of a tapered guide).

By means of the longitudinal section module connection arrangement 40, the angular alignment of the individual modules relative to one another can be made considerably easier (whether with or without floor-mounted guide rails for the support and movement devices 40a, 40b), whereby a tilting movement of the head modules can already take place with the head modules in the intended aligned longitudinal alignment, here only roughly indicated by the reference axis Y17 of the upper head module 11a or the lower head module 11b, which is used as a tilting axis and is provided module-specifically integrally in the side wall units by corresponding reference recesses. At least two reference axes can also be used for each longitudinal position to hold the respective head module in position. Shown here are coupling units (e.g. plug pins) 46 on those reference axes Y17 around which a/the tilting movement is to take place (whereby the expert can specify the most suitable reference axis Y17 for each module, in particular thanks to a coupling process that can be carried out quickly and easily using the preferably manually pluggable coupling units 46). The free end 11.1a of the platform section of the upper head module 11a can be arranged either freely in space or additionally supported. The longitudinal section module connection arrangement 40 also facilitates the application of the sheet metal connections 31 described here of essentially force-fitting module connections, in particular since the head modules can also be positioned and aligned relatively precisely around the respective reference axis Y17 using the lifting and tilting kinematics 41 described here (for example provided by actuators, hydraulic cylinders or the like). Last but not least, this also facilitates the use of manual assembly steps with the greatest possible flexibility/variability.

In Fig.7 the upper head module is shown in an arrangement extending below the base plane E1; optionally the alignment plane Exy ( Fig.6 ) of the intermediate module is raised or be raised so that the free end of the head module is still above the floor level E1 even when its inclined section is aligned horizontally; the expert can specify the advantageous working height for the alignment level Exy, particularly depending on the available assembly tools and the equipment of a production facility. The Fig.7 The indicated side stop 101.1 (indicated here in a position- and length-unspecific manner) can be provided, for example, as an alternative to floor-fixed rails or in addition to, for example, optically implemented alignment means.

In Fig.8 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 and their interaction or a transition phase between these steps, in particular on 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 assembled. A preferably form-fitting/non-positive connection of several modules (step S6 ) can then take place to form the supporting structure of the entire guideway device, wherein the head modules are preferably only tilted about a/the corresponding reference axis for this purpose, in order to align the joint plane of the respective module, in particular in an at least approximately vertical connection plane. The form-fitting/non-positive connection can be carried out by means of optionally pre-assembled sheet metal connections, in particular in the area of the respective upper/lower chord. The guideway device can then be completed (step S7 ), e.g. by further assembly measures, for example relating to the balustrade or completing all-round drive or handrail components or installing the steps.

Steps S4 to S6 are preferably carried out in the same assembly line, with the order of the individual modules unchanged and with aligned longitudinal alignment of the Assembly line, whereby alignment, support and positioning are carried out with reference to the reference recesses provided integrally in the respective module-specific support structure.

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 the event that a pit can/should be used, the corresponding steps can be varied accordingly, in particular with regard to 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 the lower head module and intermediate module tipping over, 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.

In the Figures 9A to 9E 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 1 1c; then, according to sub-step S6.2, Fig. 9A, 9B 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. 9C, 9D 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. 9D 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. 9E 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. 9E 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. 9D 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 10A to 10F 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 8mm sheet metal, for example, and connected to the truss tree, in particular screwed. The through bolts 46 already described elsewhere, which are shown in the The springs act on the corresponding reference recess 17.3 of the respective module and 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. 11A , 11B , 11C 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. 11C ). 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, in particular with regard to a process or a phase of the assembly process, in which the individual longitudinal sections or modules are to be connected to one another (preferably in a form-fitting/non-positive manner), i.e. in which the support structure is to be created over the entire longitudinal extent of the guideway device.

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 end section (intended horizontal alignment)

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/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

31

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

37

Fasteners, in particular screw connections or rivet connections

40

Longitudinal section module connection 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 of modular guideway devices (especially process/production lines)

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 longitudinal section module connection 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)

Longitudinal section module connection arrangement (40) set up for the relative positioning and alignment of at least two longitudinal section modules (11) of a guideway device (10) comprising at least three separate longitudinal section modules (11) comprising two head modules (11a, 11b) and at least one intermediate module (11c, 11c') for assembling the guideway device by connecting/marrying the modules (11) to one another in pairs, wherein the longitudinal section module connection arrangement (40) is set up for the relative positioning and alignment of the modules (11) such that one of the head modules (11a) can be connected to the intermediate module (11c) in a coordinated arrangement and alignment on a/the first front end side of the at least one intermediate module (11c) and the other of the head modules (11b) can be connected to the intermediate module in a coordinated arrangement and alignment on a/the second front end side of the at least one intermediate module (11c), in particular in each case abutting on the front side. Longitudinal section module connection arrangement (40) according to the preceding device claim, comprising at least one positioning unit (50) configured to position at least one of the modules (11) relative to at least one other of the modules, in particular comprising alignment plates (51), guides (53) and/or pins (46). Longitudinal section module connection arrangement according to one of the preceding device claims, comprising a first and a second tilting and holding device (42) each configured to move/tilt/position a/the platform section (11.1) of the first or second head module (11a, 11b) into an inclined position. Longitudinal section module connection arrangement according to one of the preceding device claims, wherein the longitudinal section module connection arrangement (40) provides at least one positioning unit (50) module-specifically, wherein the respective positioning unit (50) can be aligned axially in the longitudinal direction against a side stop (101.1) and/or along at least one rail. Longitudinal section module connection arrangement according to one of the preceding device claims, wherein the longitudinal section module connection arrangement (40) provides module-specific side support units (44) which are designed to support the respective module (11) laterally against the ground so as to be tiltable about a horizontal axis, in particular by the Side support units (44) are designed to be coupled to reference points/axes (17.1, Y17) integrated in side wall units (17) of the longitudinal section modules (11) and are designed to be supported in a predefined/predefinable relative position on the positioning units (50) relative to the ground. Longitudinal section module connection arrangement according to one of the preceding device claims, wherein the longitudinal section module connection arrangement (40) provides at least one of the following assembly aids, in particular module-specific: support and movement devices (10a, 10b), lifting or tilting kinematics (41), side support units (44), positioning units (50). Longitudinal section module connection arrangement according to one of the preceding device claims, wherein the longitudinal section module connection arrangement (40) has at least the following components: positioning system for the individual modules, in particular comprising guides or plugs on alignment plates (51); a first support and movement device (40a), in particular with lifting/tilting kinematics (41), set up for positioning and aligning the upper head module (11a) for connection to the at least one horizontally aligned intermediate module (11c); a second support and movement device (10b), in particular with lifting/tilting kinematics (41), set up for positioning and aligning the lower head module (11b) for connection to the at least one horizontally aligned intermediate module (11c). Longitudinal section module connection arrangement according to one of the preceding device claims, wherein the longitudinal section module connection arrangement (40) is/can be integrated into an assembly line (100) already provided for the module-specific handling of the individual longitudinal section modules (11) in advance, in particular with a/the longitudinal alignment of the longitudinal section module connection arrangement (40) aligned with the longitudinal alignment of the assembly line, in particular with individual support and movement devices (40a, 40b) and/or positioning units (50) in axial/longitudinal positions predefined relative to one another by reference recesses (17.3) of the respective longitudinal section module (11). Method for assembling a guideway device (10) by providing at least three longitudinal section modules (11) of the guideway device (10) in a coordinated arrangement and orientation for connecting/marrying the modules (11) in pairs with one another, wherein the guideway device (10) is provided in a modular configuration with at least three separate longitudinal section modules (11) comprising two head modules (11a, 11b) and at least one intermediate module (11c), wherein the modules (11) are provided for final assembly for connecting a/the respective support structure (15) of the modules to one another in pairs, wherein one of the head modules (11a) is arranged and aligned in a coordinated arrangement and orientation on a/the first end face of the at least one intermediate module (11c) and the other of the head modules (11b) is arranged and aligned in a coordinated arrangement and orientation on a/the second end face of the at least one intermediate module (11c), in each case in an orientation/arrangement that matches the orientation/arrangement of the at least one intermediate module. Method according to claim 9, wherein at least one of the head modules (11b) is tilted from an oblique/inclined arrangement of its connecting oblique section (11.3) into a horizontal arrangement of the oblique section (11.3) and is thereby horizontally aligned in a coordinated arrangement and alignment on the first front end side of the at least one intermediate module (11c); and/or wherein both head modules (11a, 11b) are tilted from an oblique arrangement of the respective connecting oblique section to a horizontal arrangement of the oblique section (11.3) and are thereby horizontally aligned in a coordinated arrangement and alignment on opposite front end sides of the at least one intermediate module (11c), each in an alignment/arrangement that matches the horizontal alignment/arrangement of the at least one intermediate module. Method according to claim 9 or 10, wherein all longitudinal section modules (11), i.e. the at least one intermediate module (11c) as such and the head modules (11a, 11b) each with their platform sections (11.1), are arranged in at least approximately horizontal alignment in one plane before the support structures (15) of the modules (11) are connected to one another in pairs. Method according to one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the head modules (11a, 11b) are tilted into the alignment plane of the at least one intermediate module (11c) such that the support structure (15) of a/the corresponding connecting inclined section (11.3) of the respective head module (11a, 11b) is brought into alignment in the alignment plane of the support structure (15) of the intermediate module (11c), in particular by lifting the head modules at reference points/axes (17.a, Y17) integrated in their side wall units (17). Method according to one of claims 9 to 12, wherein the respective head module (11a, 11b) is held in a predetermined relative position relative to the intermediate module (11c) with the inclined section (11.3) in at least approximately horizontal alignment axially aligned with the axial alignment of the intermediate module (11c) for positive/non-positive connection with the intermediate module, in particular by means of at least one tilting and holding device (42) for moving/tilting/positioning a/the platform section (11.1) of the upper or lower head module in the inclined position; and/or
wherein one of the head modules with its platform section (11.1) is tilted into a negative height range below the height level of the adjacent intermediate module (11c), optionally into an area below a floor level of a machine hall. Use of a longitudinal section module connection arrangement (40) for carrying out a method according to one of the method claims 9 to 13 for assembling at least support structures (15) of longitudinal section modules (11) of a guideway device (10) by connecting/marrying the corresponding support structure section in pairs, wherein the longitudinal section module connection arrangement (40) provides at least one of the following assembly aids, in particular module-specific: support and movement devices (40a, 40b), lifting/tilting kinematics (41), side support units (44), positioning units (50). Assembly line (100) for the assembly of modularly constructed guideway devices (10), with a longitudinal section module connection arrangement (40) according to one of device claims 1 to 8, set up to carry out a method according to one of method claims 9 to 13.

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