NL2027325B1 - Stairlift guide rail element, guide rail assembly and method for installing a stairlift guide rail - Google Patents

Stairlift guide rail element, guide rail assembly and method for installing a stairlift guide rail Download PDF

Info

Publication number
NL2027325B1
NL2027325B1 NL2027325A NL2027325A NL2027325B1 NL 2027325 B1 NL2027325 B1 NL 2027325B1 NL 2027325 A NL2027325 A NL 2027325A NL 2027325 A NL2027325 A NL 2027325A NL 2027325 B1 NL2027325 B1 NL 2027325B1
Authority
NL
Netherlands
Prior art keywords
guide rail
stairlift
projection
rail element
wall
Prior art date
Application number
NL2027325A
Other languages
Dutch (nl)
Inventor
Smienk Evert
Original Assignee
Estair B V
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Estair B V filed Critical Estair B V
Priority to NL2027325A priority Critical patent/NL2027325B1/en
Priority to EP22700691.3A priority patent/EP4277869A1/en
Priority to PCT/NL2022/050015 priority patent/WO2022154663A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of NL2027325B1 publication Critical patent/NL2027325B1/en

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B66—HOISTING; LIFTING; HAULING
    • B66B—ELEVATORS; ESCALATORS OR MOVING WALKWAYS
    • B66B9/00—Kinds or types of lifts in, or associated with, buildings or other structures
    • B66B9/06—Kinds or types of lifts in, or associated with, buildings or other structures inclined, e.g. serving blast furnaces
    • B66B9/08—Kinds or types of lifts in, or associated with, buildings or other structures inclined, e.g. serving blast furnaces associated with stairways, e.g. for transporting disabled persons
    • B66B9/0846—Guide rail

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Transportation (AREA)
  • Automation & Control Theory (AREA)
  • Structural Engineering (AREA)
  • Types And Forms Of Lifts (AREA)
  • Lift-Guide Devices, And Elevator Ropes And Cables (AREA)

Abstract

The invention relates to a stairlift guide rail element comprising a tubular base extending along a longitudinal axis from a first end wall to a second end wall, wherein the first end wall is 5 substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and the second end wall is slanted with respect to the longitudinal axis to provide a curvature with an angle or to the guide rail element, wherein the angle of curvature d is in the range of 0° — 10°. The stairlift guide rail element further comprises a projection extending outwardly from one of the first and the second end wall and a groove in the other of the first and second end wall. 10 The invention further relates to a stairlift guide rail connector, a straight guide rail element, a guide rail assembly and a method for installing a stairlift guide rail.

Description

STAIRLIFT GUIDE RAIL ELEMENT, GUIDE RAIL ASSEMBLY AND METHOD FOR
INSTALLING A STAIRLIFT GUIDE RAIL The invention relates to a stairlift guide rail element with a curve, a stairlift guide rail element, a stairlift guide rail connector, a guide rail assembly and method for installing a stairlift guide rail.
Stairlifts are known from practice and comprise a stairlift guide rail and a seat assembly with a drive that is moveable along said stairlift guide rail between the different floors. In use, a person is seated on the seat assembly and is transported with the seat assembly along the 19 guide rail to the next floor.
A disadvantage of the commonly used stairlift guide rails is that these are single-use, because they are designed and manufactured for one specific stairwell. This means that the stairlift guide rails, after removal, can only be reused for a stairwell having the exact same configuration as the stairwell for which it was originally designed. This results in a (significant) increase in the costs of a stairlift guide rail and in a relatively high amount of waste.
To solve this disadvantage, a stairlift guide rail assembly with a plurality of standardized components was developed, such as for example disclosed in WO2011/064582 . This assembly comprises a large number of different guide rail sections having a wide variety of sections with horizontal and/or vertical bends. At least part of the standardized components is reusable and can be installed in a different place by choosing the required combination of standard components.
A disadvantage of this assembly is it requires the manufacturing and use of a large number of different components. In addition, it stil! requires careful consideration (and thus time) to configure the stairwell design by selecting and transporting the correct standardized components.
Alternatively, EP 3 153 453 B1 discloses a method for installing a stairlift in which a limited number of standard components is used. The limited number includes a tapered segment for a curved section having a first face and a second face at an angle a of at most 16° with respect to each other. This particular tapered form allows connecting tapered segments to create a vertical or a horizontal bend.
A disadvantage of this standardized segment is that it can only be used to create either a vertical curve or a horizontal curve. A curve having both a horizontal and a vertical curvature at the same time can not be created. As a result, not all stairwell designs can be provided with a (properly installed) stairlift guide rail.
The invention is aimed to remove or at least significantly reduce the abovementioned disadvantages and provide a stairlift guide rail that has a limited number of standardized components and simultaneously allows installation of curved section having both a horizontal and vertical curve (at the same time). To that end, the invention provides a stairlift guide rail element comprising: — atubular base extending at least partially along a longitudinal axis from a first end wall to a second end wall, wherein: ~ the first end wall is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis; ~ the second end wall is slanted with respect to the longitudinal axis to provide a curvature with an angle a, wherein the angle of curvature a is in the range of 0° — 10° degrees; and — a projection extending outwardly from one of the first and the second end wall, and — a groove provided in the other of the first and second end wall.
It is noted that the stairlift guide rail element according to the invention in the application is also often referred to as guide rail element according to the invention, rail element according to the invention or simply element according to the invention.
Each of these definitions refers to the stairlift guide rail element according to the invention and the definitions are used interchangeably throughout the text (of the application). An advantage of the guide rail element according to the invention is that it can provide stairlift guide rail assemblies that have both a vertical and a horizontal curvature in a single curved section.
Moreover, a plurality of stairlift guide rail elements according to the invention can be combined into any type of curved section, including section having a vertical bend, a horizontal bend or a combination of a vertical and a horizontal bend.
This means essentially that only a single type of element can be used to create curved sections of guide rail of any kind.
This is mainly due to the combination of the slanted second end wall on the one hand and the use of the projection and groove construction on the other hand.
The slanted second end wall provides a curvature in a first direction, for example a vertical direction.
By rotating adjacent guide rail elements with respect to each other, a second curvature in a second direction added to the already existing curvature thus resulting in a curvature in two directions.
Depending on the orientation of the elements and the rotation between adjacent elements, any type of curved section of stairlift guide rail can be provided.
Another advantage of the stairlift guide rail element according to the invention is that the use of a projection and a matching groove allows a simplified installation, which reduces costs and increases installation speed.
Yet another advantage is that the projection and the groove provide a large connecting surface, which (in installed configuration) increases stability of the guide rail and decreases stress in the guide rail.
In an embodiment of the stairlift guide rail element according to the invention, the tubular base has a side wall that extends from the first end wall to the second end wall and is further defined by an inner radius and an outer radius of the tubular element. The inner and the outer radius are each viewed from in the radial direction outwards from the longitudinal axis and together define a wall thickness of the element.
The wall thickness of the stairlift guide rail element according to the invention is 19 preferably chosen such that it provides sufficient strength, while at the same time reducing the amount of material required for the element. In addition, the thickness of the wall may define the width of the groove in the end wall (when measured in a radially outward direction from the longitudinal axis).
In an embodiment according t0 the invention, the groove is an annular groove in the end wall or the groove comprises a number of grooves that each extend along a circular path in the end wall.
The groove preferably is an annular groove or ring provided in the end wall that provides an opening for inserting the projection of an additional or second stairlift guide rail element to provide a mating connection.
An advantage of providing a ring-shaped groove is that the additional or second stairlift guide rail element can be rotated vis-a-vis the stairlift guide rail element over virtually any angle between 0° and 360°, therewith providing a wide range of available angles to a curved section of stairlift guide rail.
Alternatively, it is also possible to provide a number of grooves in the end wall instead of an annular groove that is continuous.
In an embodiment of the stairlift guide rail element according to the invention, the groove may extend inwardly substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis, and the projection may extend perpendicular to the end wall from which it projects.
An advantage of providing the groove respectively the projection substantially perpendicular to an associated end wall is that tight fit is achieved when a projection of a first stairlift guide rail element is inserted in the groove of a second stairlift guide rail element. As a result, the forces of a stairlift seat and/or lifting assembly are divided evenly over the entire guide rail and peak stress is obviated.
Another advantage of the tight fit is that a smooth, continuous surface of the guide rail is achieved when two stairlift guide rail elements are connected to each other.
In an embodiment of the stairlift guide rail element according to the invention, the projection may be a tubular projection that is configured to be slideably insertable into the groove of a second stairlift guide rail element, wherein the projection and the groove are configured to provide a mating connection.
An advantage of a tubular projection is that it provides a tight fit with the groove. As a result, the forces of a stairlift seat and/or lifting assembly are divided evenly over the entire guide rail and peak stress is obviated.
Another advantage of the tight fit is that a smooth, continuous surface of the guide rail is achieved when two stairlift guide rail elements are connected to each other.
Yet another advantage is that a hollow projection reduces material use and costs and simultaneously increases flexibility of the projection. This improves resistance against breaking of the projection during use.
In an embodiment of the stairlift guide rail element according to the invention, the projection and the groove each are provided with splines, wherein the splines on the projection of a first element are configured to mate with the splines on the groove of a second element to provide a splined connection.
The advantage of a splined connection is that the rotation of a first element compared to the second element can be provided in measured steps, with each measured step being a single spline rotation.
Another advantage of a splined connection is that it provides an even further increased stability and strength to the guide rail. In addition, it reduces stress in the material of the individual stairlift guide rail elements as the forces are being transferred to (and thus divided over) adjacent guide rail elements. This even further improves the safety of the guide rail and allows virtually any stairlift seat assembly to be used in conjunction with the guide rail.
Yet another advantage has been found in that the construction of this embodiment provides increased support of rotational forces that are induced by the seat assembly during the negotiation of the bend. This is mainly due to the additional strength provided by the (mating) splines of the splined connection.
It is noted that, for reference purposes, the splines on the projection may be defined as projection splines, whereas the splines on the groove may be defined as indentation splines. The splines may otherwise also generally be referred to as ‘splines’. The various definitions may be used interchangeably throughout the application.
In an embodiment of the stairlift guide rail element according to the invention, the groove has an inner wall and an outer wall that is, when viewed from the longitudinal axis, positioned radially outwardly from the inner wall, wherein the outer wall is provided with splines that extend radially inwardly into the groove.
5 An advantage of providing splines on the outer wall of the groove is that, due to the larger circumference of the outer wall (compared to the inner wall), a larger number of splines and/or larger splines can be applied. This leads to an increased stability and strength of the connection.
Another advantage of providing the splines on the outer wall of the groove is that an improved distribution of the forces in the guide rail is achieved, especially the forces on the guide rail caused by a {passage of a) seat assembly.
itis noted that, in an alternative embodiment, it is also possible to provide the splines on the inner wall only or on both the inner wall and the outer wall.
In an embodiment of the stairlift guide rail element according to the invention, the projection has an outer wall and an inner wall that is positioned radially inward from the outer wall, wherein the outer wall is provided with splines.
An advantage of providing splines on the outer wall of the projection is that, due to the farger circumference of the outer wall (compared to the inner wall), a larger number of splines and/or larger splines can be applied. This leads to an increased stability and strength of the connection.
Another advantage of providing the splines on the outer wall of the projection is that an improved distribution of the forces in the guide rail is achieved, especially the forces on the guide rail caused by a {passage of a) seat assembly.
itis noted that, in an alternative embodiment, it is also possible to provide the splines on both the outer wall and the inner wall. It is noted that the positioning of the splines on the projection and the groove should be synchronized in order to be able to provide a mating connection between them. In other words, if the splines in the groove are positioned on the outer wall (and extend radially inwardly), the splines on the projection should be positioned on an outer wall of the projection (and should exiend radially outwardly to mate with the groove splines).
It is further noted that, in an alternative embodiment, it is also possible to provide the splines on the inner wall of the projection only. In that case, the outer wall of the projection is preferably provided with connectors for connecting other parts of a stairlift guide rail to the stairlift guide rail element.
In an embodiment of the stairlift guide rail element according to the invention the splines are teeth.
An advantage of providing teeth is that teeth provide a tight fit between the projection splines and the groove splines. This increases strength and reduces the risk of rotational slip of guide rail elements with respect to each other.
Another advantage is that teeth allow a measured step-like rotation of guide rail elements with respect to each other, which allows a double bend to be realized in a relatively easy way. In other words, in use, the projection of a first guide rail element according to the invention can be positioned adjacent the groove of a second guide rail element according to the invention. Before sliding the projection (of the first element) into the groove (of the second element), the second element may, with respect to the first element, be rotated. The rotation may be coupled to the teeth in that a rotation with ‘one tooth’ may result in a predetermined degree rotation of the second guide rail element with respect to the first guide rail element (for example 1° or 2° rotation per tooth). Subsequently, the rotation is locked by insertion the projection of the first guide rail element into the groove of the second guide rail element.
it may be that, depending on the specific configuration of the projection and/or the groove, the number of male splines (the projection splines on the projection) is adapted to the number of female splines (the groove splines on the groove) to provide a projection spline for each space between two groove splines. In general, this means that the number of projection splines is one less than number of groove splines or vice versa.
In an embodiment of the stairlift guide rail element according to the invention, the number of splines preferably is in the range of 6 — 360, and more preferably is in the range of 18 — 180 and most preferably is in the range of 36 — 90.
An advantage of providing a number of teeth in the abovementioned range is that the number of teeth determines the angle of rotation of a second guide rail element with respect to a first guide rail element when the second guide rail element is rotated. In other words, the angle of rotation of the guide rail is determined by the rotation over a predefined number of teeth. As a result, each angle can easily be formed by calculating the number of teeth over which the rotation should be provided and by subsequently ‘counting’ the number of teeth and fixing the elements with respect to each other.
Another advantage of the number of teeth in the abovementioned range is that it provides an excellent balance between ease of manufacturing and ease of installation.
In an embodiment of the stairlift guide rail element according to the invention, a side wall of the stairlift guide rail element is provided with a number of openings that extend radially inward through the side wall, wherein the openings are configured to receive fastening means.
An advantage is that fastening means can be provided into the openings to secure adjacent guide rail elements to each other to install the guide rail.
The openings are preferably positioned adjacent the end wall in which the groove is provided. This allows fastening means, such as for example bolts or screws, to extend into the groove and, when a second guide rail element is provided in the groove, into the projection that of the second guide rail element that is inserted in the groove. This provides an effective and efficient way of connecting adjacent guide rail elements with each other.
In an embodiment of the stairlift guide rail element according to the invention, the number of openings in the side wall is in the range of 2 — 12, preferably in the range of 4 — 8.
An advantage is that a number of fastening means in the abovementioned range provides sufficient strength to create a strong connection, while at the same time preventing a low speed of installation of the guide rail (elements).
In an embodiment of the stairlift guide rail element according to the invention, the number of openings is positioned substantially evenly around the circumference of the base wall.
By evenly distributing the openings, an even distribution of the force on the connection between the first guide rail element and the second guide rail element is achieved. Another advantage is that the connection is equally strong around the entire circumference of the guide rail.
In an embodiment of the stairlift guide rail element according to the invention, a side wall of the projection is provided with an annular groove that is positioned at a predetermined distance from the end wall from which the projection extends, wherein the annular groove is preferably configured to cooperate with the number of openings in a side wall of a second stairlift guide rail element that extend radially inward through the side wall, wherein preferably the openings and the groove are configured to receive fastening means.
The side wall of the projection, or projection side wall, may advantageously be provided with an annular groove to accommodate fastening means to secure a first and a second guide rail element to each other and fixate them with respect to each other. In use, the projection of a first element is slid into the groove of a second element. As a result, the annular groove of the projection of the first element is positioned in the groove and adjacent the side wall openings in the side wall of the second element, in which fastening means can be positioned. The fastening means, for example bolts, screws, pins or the like, (after application thereof) extend through the side wall of the second guide rail element into the groove in the projection of the first guide rail element, thus providing a secure and strong connection between the first and the second guide rail element.
An advantage of the annular groove is that the fastening means can be connected regardless of the rotational position of the guide rail elements with respect to each other. This provides improved flexibility of installation with respect to the rotational angle between adjacent guide rail elements.
In an embodiment of the stairlift guide rail element according to the invention, a 19 projection side wall of the projection is provided with a number of longitudinal grooves, wherein the number of grooves is configured to receive fastening means.
Instead of a single annular groove in the projection, a number of grooves may be provided, which preferably are evenly spaced around the circumference of the projection. Although providing a number of grooves reduces the overall flexibility in rotational angles of guide rail elements with respect to each other, it increases the strength of the elements and therewith the guide rail. Therefore, this embodiment is for example most suited for stairlifts that are designed to carry larger or heavier loads that a regular stairlift.
This means that, in use when connecting a first and a second guide rail element, each opening of the number openings of a first stairlift guide rail element is positioned adjacent a groove of the number of grooves of a second stairlift guide rail element, such that the first stairlift guide rail element and the second stairlift guide rail element are connectable with fastening means, such as screws or bolts, that, when applied, reach through the openings into the grooves.
In an embodiment of the stairlift guide rail element according to the invention, a projection side wall of the projection comprises a number N indentations that are preferably evenly positioned around the outer circumference of the projection side wall, wherein the indentations are configured to receive projections of another guide rail part, such as a straight guide rail part according to the invention.
The stairlift guide rail element according to the invention may additionally or alternatively be provided with connection means that allow the element to be connected to other guide rail parts, such as a straight guide rail element. It is preferred that these connection means are provided as a number of indentations in the side wall of the projection. Such indentations preferably extend in a longitudinal direction of the side wall and are evenly spaced around the circumference thereof. As such, the indentations form a space in which a projection of another guide rail part, such as a straight guide rail part, may be provided to form a connection.
In an embodiment of the stairlift guide rail element according to the invention, the groove has a bottom wall that extends substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, wherein the bottom wall is provided with one or more openings that are configured to receive fastening means.
An advantage of providing openings in the bottom of the groove is that the guide rail element can be connected to another guide rail part, such as a straight guide rail pari. Fastening or connecting means, such as screws, bolts or pins for example, may be provided in (and partially through) the openings into the other parts to secure the guide rail element according to the invention to the other guide rail part. This provides secure, easy and sturdy connection.
lt is possible, and in some cases even preferred, that this embodiment is combined with the previous embodiment in which the projection is provided with indentations. In this case, the openings are positioned such that they are in line with the indentations in the projection, which allows the fastening means to extend into the indentations. The invention also relates to a stairlift guide rail connector, comprising: — aring-shaped element; and — a projection is connected to an outer side wall of the ring-shaped element, wherein the projection is configured to accommodate a rack of a stairlift, wherein the ring-shaped element has an outer radius that is substantially equal to an outer radius of a stairlift guide rail element according to the invention.
The connector element according to the invention provides similar effects and advantages as the guide rail element according to the invention and is configured to cooperate therewith to provide additional advantages. The embodiments as described with regard to the guide rail element according to the invention can freely be used in combination with the stairlift guide rail connector according to the invention.
it is noted that the stairlift guide rail connector may in this application also be referred to as guide rail connector, rail connector, rail connector element, guide rail connector element and/or stairlift guide rail connector element. These definitions are used interchangeably throughout the application and all refer to the same element.
An advantage of the guide rail connector according to the invention is that is provides a reliable connector for connecting a rack, a ground support and/or other external parts that need to be connected to the guide rail. It is noted that the projection of the guide rail connector may be provided in a number of shapes, depending on the particular function that is to be provided by the guide rail connector element. In an example, the guide rail connector element may be provided with a projection that is substantially U-shaped, wherein a rack is provided in the U- shaped opening. Similarly, in another example, the projection may be a straight projection extends radially outward from the ring and that is provided with connecting elements, for example bolt or screw holes, to connect a guide rail support to the guide rail connector element. The inner radius of the ring-shaped element is substantially equal to an outer radius of the projection of the guide rail element according to the invention. This is preferred, because it allows the ring-shaped element to be placeable on the projection of the stairlift guide rail element with a snug fit. An advantage thereof is that it provides a strong, sturdy connection that is substantially without margin or leeway. This increases the strength and reduces wear on the components.
Another advantage of the guide rail connector according to the invention is that the projection can be positioned on substantially any position along the circumference of the guide rail. This is due to the fact that the ring-shaped element may be rotated in a circumferential direction, which allows the projection to be rotated in the right position with regard to the function it needs to perform. This for example means that the guide rail connector may be rotated to a position in which the projection points toward the stair to which the rail needs to be connected.
In an embodiment of the stairlift guide rail connector according to the invention, an inner wall of the ring-shaped element is provided with splines, wherein the splines preferably are configured to mate with splines on a projection of the stairlift guide rail element.
An advantage of providing splines, especially splines that are configured to mate with splines on a projection of the stairlift guide rail element, is that the rail guide connector is locked against (undesired) rotation thereof with respect to the guide rail element. In other words, during installation, the rail guide connector is positioned in the desired rotational position and subsequently slided into place on the projection of the guide rail element. Once in place, the mating connection between the respective splines locks the rail guide connector into place and prevents further respective rotation.
In an embodiment of the stairlift guide rail connector according to the invention, a thickness of the ring-shaped element, measured in an axial direction, is substantially less than a length of the projection of the stairlift guide rail element. Preferably, the thickness is in the range of 0,25 — 0,5 times the length of the projection of the stairlift guide rail element, and more preferably the thickness is 14 or Ye times the length of the projection of the stairlift guide rail element.
The invention also relates to a straight stairlift guide rail element comprising: — atubular element having a wall with an inner side and an outer side; — a projection that extends radially outward from the outer side and that is provided with: ~ connecting means for connecting a rack of a stairlift; and/or ~ with support connecting means for connecting a support to the projection.
The straight stairlift guide rail element according to the invention has similar effects and advantages as the guide rail element according to the invention and the rail guide connector according to the invention. The embodiments as described with regard to the guide rail element according to the invention and the stairlift guide rail connector according to the invention can freely be used in combination with straight stairlift guide rail element according to the invention.
it is noted that the straight stairlift guide rail element according to the invention may in this application also be referred to as straight guide rail element, straight rail element, rail element and/or straight stairlift element. These definitions are used interchangeably throughout the application and all refer to the same element.
An advantage of the straight stairlift guide rail element according to the invention is that it provides a sturdy and easily useable stairlift guide rail element. Preferably, the straight element has a predetermined length that may, when the need arises, be cut to a desired length. The straight stairlift guide rail element according to the invention is preferably adapted to be easily combinable and especially connectable to the guide rail element according to the invention.
In an embodiment of the straight stairlift guide rail element according to the invention, the inner side is provided with a number N of radially inwardly extending projections, which comprises connecting means for connecting the straight stairlift guide rail element to another guide rail element, and wherein an inner radius of the straight guide rail element is substantially equal to the outer radius of the groove of the guide rail element according to the invention.
An advantage is that, when the groove is provided with openings, fastening or connecting means can be provided through the openings and subsequently connected or fastened in{to) the radially inwardly extending projections of the straight guide rail element. This provides a solid, sturdy connection that substantially prevents undesired rotation and bending of the guide rail.
In an embodiment of the straight stairlift guide rail element according to the invention, the inwardly extending projections are preferably radially evenly spaced along the inner side.
An advantage of evenly spaced projections is that the forces acting on the connection between the adjacent parts is evenly distributed along the circumference of the guide rail wall.
Another advantage of an even spacing along the circumference is that (undesired) rotation is substantially prevented.
In an embodiment of the straight stairlift guide rail element according to the invention, the connecting or fastening means comprise longitudinally extending holes in the projection that are configured for receiving screws, bolis or pins.
An advantage of providing longitudinally extending holes is that the connection or fastening means extend along (and/or partially in} the wall and thus are capable of transferring forces to the wall over a relatively high length. This reduces wear on the projections and the wall and increases the life-time of the straight guide rail element according to the invention.
In an embodiment of the straight stairlift guide rail element according to the invention, the outwardly extending projection and/or the inwardly extending projections are integrally formed with the straight stairlift guide rail element.
An advantage of integrally formed projections is that an increased strength of the projections is achieved.
Another advantage is that the projections are positioned during manufacturing, which means that the projections are positioned correctly for installation of the guide rail from the moment of manufacturing.
Yet another advantage of integrally formed projections is that the installation time on site is reduced to the lower number of actions that needs to be performed.
In an embodiment of the straight stairlift guide rail element according to the invention, the wall of the stairlift guide rail element is provided with a number of openings that extend radially inwardly from the outer side to the inner side of the wall, wherein the openings are configured to receive fastening means.
An advantage is that fastening means can be provided into the openings to secure adjacent guide rail elements to each other to install the guide rail. The openings are preferably positioned adjacent near an end of the straight guide rail element.
In an embodiment of the straight stairlift guide rail element according to the invention, the number of openings in the wall is in the range of 2 — 12, preferably in the range of 4 — 8.
An advantage is that a number of fastening means in the abovementioned range provides sufficient strength to create a strong connection, while at the same time reducing the speed of installation of the guide rail (elements).
In an embodiment of the straight stairlift guide rail element according to the invention, the number of openings is positioned substantially evenly around the circumference of the wall.
By evenly distributing the openings, an even distribution of the force on the connection between the straight guide rail element and another guide rail element is achieved.
Another advantage is that the connection is equally strong around the entire circumference of the guide rail.
In an embodiment of the straight stairlift guide rail element according to the invention, the straight element is manufactured from extruded aluminium.
An advantage of extrusion is that it provides a strong straight guide rail element that can be manufactured in a cost-effective way.
The invention also relates to a guide rail assembly, comprising: — anumber of guide rail elements according to the invention ; — a number of ring segments according to the invention; and — a number of straight guide rail elements according to the invention.
The guide rail assembly according to the invention has similar effects and advantages as the guide rail element, the rail guide connector and the straight stairlift guide rail element according to the invention.
The embodiments as described with regard to the guide rail element, the stairlift guide rail connector and the straight stairlift guide rail element according to the invention can freely be used in combination with the assembly according to the invention.
An advantage of the assembly according to the invention is that it comprises a guide rail that, due to the guide rail elements according to the invention, can be provided with a double curvature to closely follow a stair, including spiral staircases.
Another advantage is that essentially any angle of curvature in two directions can be provided with a single type of curved guide rail element.
This is due to the fact that the a combination of the slanted second end wall on the one hand and the use of the projection and groove construction on the other hand is provided.
The slanied second end wall provides a curvature in a first direction, for example a vertical direction.
By rotating adjacent guide rail elements with respect to each other, a second curvature in a second direction is added to the already existing curvature, thus resulting in a curvature in two directions.
Depending on the orientation of the elements and the rotation between adjacent elements, any type of curved section of stairlift guide rail can be provided.
This has not been possible with the existing guide rail assemblies.
Existing assemblies either provided a single element with a single curvature or a plurality of standard elements to provide double curvature.
Yet another advantage is that the guide rail assembly according to the invention provides a simplified installation due to the use of a projection and a matching groove in each element.
This provides a reduction in costs and an increase installation speed.
An even further advantage is that the guide rail assembly according to the invention provides a tubular guide rail with a projection in which a rack can be provided.
Due to the large common surface between a projection of a first guide rail element and the groove of a guide rail element an increased support surface is achieved, which improves strength and stability of the guide rail. Moreover, the guide rail connector between the first and second guide rail elements is clamped between the guide rail elements and supported by these elements to form an even stronger support.
The invention also relates to a method for assembling a stairlift guide rail, the method comprising the steps of: — providing a set of guide rail elements comprising: ~ a number of guide rail elements according to the invention; ~ a number of of stairlift guide rail connectors according to the invention; and ~ a number of straight guide rail elements according to the invention; — connecting each stairlift guide rail connector to an associated stairlift guide rail element; and — connecting the number of guide rail elements and the number of straight guide rail elements to each other to form a guide rail.
The method according to the invention has similar effects and advantages as the guide rail element, the rail guide connector, the straight stairlift guide rail element and the guide rail assembly according to the invention. The embodiments as described with regard to the guide rail element, the stairlift guide rail connector, the straight stairlift guide rail element and the guide rail assembly according to the invention can freely be used in combination with the method according to the invention.
An advantage of the method according to the invention is that it provides an easy and efficient method for assembling a stairlift guide rail. This is mainly due io the fact that only three different types of elements are used in the assembly, being a curved guide rail element, a straight guide rail element and a guide rail connector. Therefore, the number of elements is limited and the assembly can be provided in a smooth, fast and efficient way.
Another advantage is that the step of connecting the different guide rail elements (including the guide rail connector) is simplified by the fact that each element is formed to easily cooperate with another element. This is for example due to the projection and groove in each (curved) guide rail element and the ring shape of the guide rail connector.
Yet another advantage of the method according to the invention is that it allows any stairwell to be fitted with a proper stairlift guide rail, even if it requires a guide rail having a double curvature in a single curved section of guide rail. This is not possible using any of the known assemblies or methods.
In an embodiment of the method according to the invention, the step of connecting each stairlift guide rail connector to an associated stairlift guide rail element may comprise sliding the ring-shaped element over a projection of a guide rail element.
The advantage of sliding the guide rail elements into place is that the guide rail elements snugly fit onto each other.
In an embodiment of the method according to the invention, the step of connecting the number of guide rail elements and the number of straight guide rail elements to each other may comprises sliding the projection of a first guide rail element into the groove of second guide rail element and/or sliding the projection of a first guide rail element into a straight guide element, and connecting the elements using connecting or fastening means.
In an embodiment of the method according to the invention, the step of sliding may be preceded by the step of rotating the first and second guide rail elements with respect to each other to position the elements according to a desired angle of curvature.
An advantage of rotating the (adjacent) guide rail elements with respect to each other is that a (second) curvature can be provided to a curved section, which allows a more steep and/or spiral stairs to be provided with the guide rail. The rotation preferably takes place before sliding the guide rail elements onto each other, which is especially advantageous if the elements are provided with a splined connection. In that case, the guide rail elements are lined up in the correct angled position and subsequently slided onto each other and held in that position. The step may also involve lining up a guide rail connector and sliding the guide rail connector into place in the correct angled position (which angle may be zero, i.e. no rotation) before the guide rail elements are positioned and slid onto each other.
Further advantages, features and details of the invention are elucidated on the basis of preferred embodiments thereof, wherein reference is made to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figures 1a, 1b show an example of a part of a stairlift guide rail according to the invention; Figure 2 shows an example of a stairlift guide rail connector according to the invention; Figure 3 shows a second example of a stairlift guide rail element according to the invention; Figure 4 shows an example of a straight stairlift guide rail element according to the invention;
Figure 5 shows a perspective view of the example of figure 5 with the stairlift guide rail assembly being partially worked open; Figure 6 shows a enlarged view of detail li of figure 5. In an example, stairlift guide rail element 2 according to the invention (see figure 1a, 1b), guide rail element 2 comprises tubular base 4 which extends at least partially a along a longitudinal axis A from first end wall 6 to second end wall 8. As can be seen, in this example first end wall 6 is substantially perpendicular to longitudinal axis A, whereas second end wall 8 is slanted with respect to longitudinal axis A to provide an angle of curvature to guide rail element 2. The angle of curvature can for example be provided as an angle with respect to the longitudinal axis.
It is noted that the angle may be a 0° angle, thus providing a slant of 0°. Guide rail element 2 further comprises groove 10, which in this example is provided in first end wall 8, and projection 12, which in this example extends outwardly from second end wall 8. It is noted that the position of groove 10 and projection 12 may be reversed as well, which means groove 10 is provided in second end wall 8 and projection 12 extends from first end wall 6. Stairlift guide rail element 2’ is in all respects similar to guide rail element 2 and the reference numbers with ‘ (such as projection 12} only serve to distinguish between the (further) identical elements 2, 2’. Thus, first end wall 6’ is perpendicular to its axis A’, whereas, in this example, second end wall 8’ is slanted with respect to axis A’. In this particular example, projection 12’ of stairlift guide rail element 2’ is a tubular projection 12’ that is configured to be slideably insertable into groove 10 of stairlift guide rail element 2. Projection 12’ and groove 10 provide a mating connection.
Groove 10, 10° in this example is provided with splines 14, 14’ in the form of teeth 14, 14’, whereas projection 12, 12’ is also provided with splines 16, 16’ in the form of teeth, 16, 18’. Teeth 14, 14’ and teeth 16, 16° are configured to provide a mating connection between, in this example, projection 12’ and groove 10, as described above.
Essentially, each groove 10, 10’ can be mated with projection 12, 12’ of another guide rail element 2, 2’ to form a curved guide rail section.
It is noted that stairlift guide rail element 2’ may also be exchanged for or combined with the example as shown in figure 3. Referring specifically to figure 1a, groove 10 has inner wall 18 and outer wall 20, which is positioned radially outward from inner wall 18. Teeth 14 are positioned on radially outer wall 20 of groove 10, and point radially inwards.
Referring specifically to figure 1b, it can be seen that projection 12 has inner wall 22 and outer wall 24 and forms tubular projection 12. Tubular projection 12 in this example has outer diameter ODP.
Teeth or splines 16 on projection 12 are provided on outer wall 24 and point radially outwards.
Teeth 14 and teeth 16 {or 16’) ensure that different, adjacent guide rail elements 2, 2’ can be rotated subsequently be fixed with respect to each other to form a curved section with a double curve.
In this example (see figures 1a, 1b), side wall 26 of tubular base 4 is provided with openings 28, which allow screws, bolts or other suitable fastening means to be inserted into {and through) openings 28. In this example, each projection 12, 12’ of guide rail element 2, 2’ is provided with annular groove 30, which is positioned at a distance from the end portion of projection 12, 12’. When projection 12’ of guide rail element 2’ (see figure 1a) is inserted in groove 10 of guide rail element 2, opening 28 in side wall 26 of tubular base 4 of guide rail element 2 is positioned above annular groove 30’ of guide rail element 2’. This means that a 19 bolt, screws or pin inserted in (and partially through) opening 28 extends into annular groove 30° and thus secures guide rail elements 2, 2’ to each other.
In a second example (see figure 3), guide rail element 2 comprises a 0° angle (or slant}, which means that first end wall 6 and second end wall 8 (which is not visible in figure 3) extend parallel to each other. Guide rail element 2 in this example comprises tubular base 4 which extends at least partially along longitudinal axis A from first end wall 6 to the second end wall. As can be seen, in this example first end wall 6 is substantially perpendicular to longitudinal axis A, whereas (not visible) second end wall is also substantially perpendicular to longitudinal axis A to provide a 0° angle of curvature to guide rail element 2. Guide rail element 2 further comprises groove 10, which in this example is provided in first end wall 6, and projection 12, which in this example extends outwardly from second end wall 8. It is noted that the position of groove 10 and projection 12 may be reversed as well, which means groove 10 is provided in second end wall 8 and projection 12 extends from first end wall 6. Groove 10 in this example is provided with splines 14 in the form of teeth 14, whereas projection 12 is also provided with splines 16 in the form of teeth 16. Groove 10 has inner wall 18 and outer wall 20, which is positioned radially outward from inner wall 18. Teeth 14 are positioned on radially outer wall 18 of groove 10, and point radially inwards. Projection 12 has outer wall 24 which is provided with teeth or splines 16, which point radially outwards. Guide rail element 2 is further provided with openings 28 in side wall 26 of tubular base 4, which allow screws, bolts or other suitable fastening means to be inserted into (and through) openings 28. Projection 12 is further provided with annular groove 30, which is configured to accommodate fastening means.
In this example, projection side wall 32 of projection 12 of guide rail element 2 comprises a number N indentations 34 that are evenly positioned around the outer circumference of the projection side wall 32. In this example, N = 4. indentations 34 are configured to cooperate with an equal number of projections of a straight guide rail element 70 (see figure 4).
Bottom wall 36 of groove 10, which extends substantially perpendicular to longitudinal axis A, is provided with openings 38 that are configured to receive fastening means. Openings 38 can be provided with fastening means, such as bolts, screws or pins, which extend through openings 38 into associated spaces in for example straight guide rail element 70 (see figure 4).
It is noted that the example as shown in figure 4 or elements disclosed in the example of figure 3 can freely and individually be combined with the examples shown in figures 1a, 1b. In some embodiments or examples, the examples of elements shown in figures 1a, 1b may also be provided as separate elements compared to the example of element as shown in figure 3.
In an example of guide stairlift rail connector 50 according to the invention, guide rail connector 50 comprises ring-shaped element 52 having inner wall 54 and outer wall 56. Outer wall 56 is provided with projection 58 that extends at least partially radially outward from outer wall 56. In this particular example, projection 58 is a U-shaped projection 58. U-shaped projection 58 comprises first leg 60, second leg 62 and base wall 64 that define opening 66. An outer side of first leg 60 is connected with outer wall 56 of rail guide connector 50, such that opening 66 is at least partially parallel to a tangent of (ring-shaped) outer wall 56 of guide rail connector 50. Opening 66 is configured to insert a {not shown) rack for guiding a {not shown) seat assembly, such that it is confined in U-shaped projection 58.
In this example, inner wall 54 of ring-shaped element 52 is provided with splines 68 in the form of teeth 68. Teeth 68 are configured to cooperate with teeth 16 of projection 12 of guide rail element 2 according to the invention. it is noted that inner diameter IDR of ring- shaped element 52 is chosen such that, when taking teeth 16 of guide rail element 2 and teeth 68 of ring-shaped element 52 into account, it is substantially equal to outer diameter ODP of projection 12. This allows connector 50 to be slid in a mating connection onto projection 12 of guide rail element 2.
In an example {see figure 4), straight guide rail 70 is tubular element 70 having wall 72 with inner side 74 and outer side 76. Wall 72 is provided with projection 78 that extends radially outward from outer side 76 and that is provided with connecting means 80 for connecting a rack of a stairlift and/or with support connecting means for connecting a support to the projection. In this example, projection 78 is provided with connecting means 80 in the form of U-shaped opening 80 in which a rack (not shown) is insertable. Tubular element 70 may extend over length L, which may be a relatively short length or longer lengths up to several meters. Straight stairlift guide rail element 70 is on inner side 74 further provided with a number N of radially inwardly extending projections 82, which comprises openings 84 for connecting straight stairlift guide rail element 70 to another guide rail element, such as element 2 (see figures 1a, 1b, 3).
Openings 84 thus form connecting means 84. In this particular example, N = 4.
In an example {see figures 5, 6), stairlift 101 comprises stairlift guide rail assembly 100 comprises a plurality of guide rail elements 102, a plurality of straight guide rail elements 170 and a plurality of connector elements 150 that are disposed between the guide rail elements 102, 170. As is clearly visible in figure 5, stairlift guide rail assembly 100 comprises curved sections 86, 88 with double curvature about halfway up (indicated with HU) as well as near the upper landing 90 of the stairs.
In a close-up view (see figure 6), it is clearly visible that each projection 112 of guide rail element 102 extends into groove 110 of an adjacent guide rail element 102. In this example, guide rail connector 150 is provided between adjacent guide rail elements 102. A guide rail element 102’ having a 0° angle is provided adjacent straight guide rail element 170. In this example, it can be seen that annular groove 130 of guide rail element 102 is positioned adjacent opening 128 of adjacent guide rail element 102. Both guide rail elements 102 are connected by means of fastening means 192, which in this example are formed by bolt 192. Bolt 192 extends through opening 128 into annular groove 130, with which it engages to secure guide rail elements 102 to each other. Projections 158 of guide rail connectors 150 positioned in the guide rail are positioned adjacent to each other and provide a continuous U-shaped groove 158 in which a rack (not shown) can be secured.
The present invention is by no means limited to the above described preferred embodiments thereof. The rights sought are defined by the following clauses within the scope of which many modifications can be envisaged.
CLAUSES
1. Stairlift guide rail element comprising: — atubular base extending along a longitudinal axis from a first end wall to a second end wall, wherein: ~ the first end wall is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis; ~ the second end wall is slanted with respect to the longitudinal axis to provide a curvature with an angle a to the guide rail element, wherein the angle of curvature ais in the range of 0° — 10°; and — a projection extending outwardly from one of the first and the second end wall, and — a groove in the other of the first and second end wall.
2. Stairlift guide rail element according to clause 1, wherein the projection is a tubular projection that is configured to be slideably insertable into the groove of a second stairlift guide rail element, wherein the projection and the groove are configured to provide a mating connection.
3. Stairlift guide rail element according to clause 1 or 2, wherein the projection and the groove each are provided with splines, and wherein the splines on the projection of a first element are configured to mate with the splines on the groove of a second element.
4. Stairlift guide rail element according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the groove has an inner wall and an outer wall that is, when viewed from the longitudinal axis, positioned radially outwardly from the inner wall, wherein the outer wall is provided with splines that extend radially inwardly into the groove.
5. Stairlift guide rail element according to any one of the clauses 3 — 4, wherein the projection has an outer wall and an inner wall that is positioned radially inward from the outer wall, wherein the outer wall is provided with splines.
6. Stairlift guide rail element according to any one of the clauses 3 — 5, wherein the splines are teeth.
7. Stairlift guide rail element according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein a side wall of the stairlift guide rail element is provided with a number of openings that extend radially inward through the side wall, wherein the openings are configured to receive fastening means.
8. Stairlift guide rail element according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein a projection side wall of the projection is provided with a number of grooves, wherein the number of grooves is configured to receive fastening means.
9. Stairlift guide rail element according to clause 8, when dependent on clause 7, wherein each opening of the number openings of a first stairlift guide rail element is positioned adjacent a groove of the number of grooves of a second stairlift guide rail element, such that the first stairlift guide rail element and the second stairlift guide rail element are connectable with fastening means, such as screws or bolts, that, when applied, reach through the openings into the grooves.
10. Stairlift guide rail element according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein a projection side wall of the projection comprises a number N indentations that are preferably evenly positioned around the outer circumference of the projection side wall.
11. Stairlift guide rail element according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the groove has a bottom wall that extends substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, wherein the bottom wall is provided with one or more openings that are configured to receive fastening means.
12. Stairlift guide rail connector, comprising: — aring-shaped element; and — a projection is connected to an outer side wall of the ring-shaped element, wherein the projection is configured to accommodate a rack of a stairlift, wherein the ring-shaped element has an outer radius that is substantially equal to an outer radius of a stairlift guide rail element according to any one of the preceding clauses.
13. Stairlift guide rail connector according to clause 12, wherein an inner wall of the ring- shaped element is provided with splines, wherein the splines preferably are configured to mate with splines on a projection of the stairlift guide rail element.
14. Straight stairlift guide rail element, comprising: — atubular element having a wall with an inner side and an outer side; — a projection that extends radially outward from the outer side and that is provided with: ~ connecting means for connecting a rack of a stairlift; and/or ~ support connecting means for connecting a support to the projection.
15. Straight stairlift guide rail element according to claim 14, wherein the inner side is provided with a number N of radially inwardly extending projections, which comprises connecting means for connecting the straight stairlift guide rail element to another guide rail element.
16. Straight stairlift guide rail element according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the element is manufactured from extruded aluminium.
17. Guide rail assembly comprising: — a number of guide rail elements according to any one of the claims 1 — 11; — a number of stairlift guide rail connectors according to any one of the claims 12 — 13; and — a number of straight guide ral! elements according to any one of the claims 14 — 16.
18. Method for assembling a stairlift guide rail, the method comprising the steps of: — providing a set of guide rail elements comprising: ~ a number of guide rail elements according to any one of the claims 1 —- 11; ~ a number of of stairlift guide rail connectors according to any one of the claims 12 — 13; and ~ a number of straight guide rail elements according to any one of the claims 14 — 16; — connecting each stairlift guide rail connector to an associated stairlift guide rail element; and — connecting the number of guide rail elements and the number of straight guide rail elements to each other to form a guide rail.
19. Method according to claim 18, wherein: — the step of connecting each stairlift guide rail connector to an associated stairlift guide rail element comprises sliding the ring-shaped element over a projection of a guide rail element; and
— the step connecting the number of guide rail elements and the number of straight guide rail elements to each other comprises: ~ sliding the projection of a first guide rail element into the groove of second guide rail element and/or sliding the projection of a first guide rail element into a straight guide element; and ~ connecting the elements using connecting or fastening means.
20. Method according to claim 19, wherein the step of sliding is preceded by the step of rotating the first and second guide rail elements with respect to each other to position the elements according to a desired angle of curvature.

Claims (20)

CONCLUSIESCONCLUSIONS 1. Traplifigeleidingsrail-element omvattende: — een buisvormige basis die zich langs een longitudinale as van een eerste eindwand naar een tweede eindwand uitstrekt, waarbij: ~ de eerste eindwand in hoofdzaak loodrecht op de longitudinale as staat; ~ de tweede eindwand een hoek heeft ten opzichte van de longitudinale as voor het verschaffen van een hoek a van het trapliftgeleidingsrail-element, waarbij de buigingshoek a in het bereik van 0° — 10° ligt; en — een projectie die zich uitwaarts van één van de eerste en de tweede eindwand uitstrekt, en — een groef in de andere van de eerste en de tweede eindwand.A stairway guide rail element comprising: a tubular base extending along a longitudinal axis from a first end wall to a second end wall, wherein: the first end wall is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis; the second end wall has an angle with respect to the longitudinal axis to provide an angle of the stairlift guide rail element, the bending angle a being in the range of 0° - 10°; and — a projection extending outwardly from one of the first and second end walls, and — a groove in the other of the first and second end walls. 2. Traplifigeleidingsrail-element volgens conclusie 1, waarbij de projectie een buisvormige projectie is die is ingericht om schuifbaar insteekbaar te zijn in de groef van een tweede trapliftgeleidingsrail-element, waarbij de projectie en de groef zijn ingericht om een in elkaar passende verbinding te verschaffen.The stair lift guide rail element of claim 1, wherein the projection is a tubular projection adapted to be slidably insertable into the groove of a second stair lift guide rail element, the projection and the groove being adapted to provide a mating connection . 3. Traplifigeleidingsrail-element volgens conclusie 1 of 2, waarbij de projectie en de groef elk zijn voorzien van vertandingen, en waarbij de vertandingen op de projectie van een eerste element zijn ingericht om in elkaar passend samen te werken met de vertandingen op de groef van een tweede element.Staircase guide rail element according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the projection and the groove are each provided with teeth, and wherein the teeth on the projection of a first element are adapted to co-operate with the teeth on the groove of a first element. a second element. 4. Trapliftigeleidingsrail-element volgens één der voorgaande conclusies, waarbij de groef een binnenwand en een buitenwand heeft, waarbij de buitenwand, vanuit de longitudinale as gezien, radiaal uitwaarts van de binnenwand gepositioneerd is, waarbij de buitenwand is voorzien van vertandingen die zich radiaal inwaarts in de groef uitstrekken.A stair lift guide rail element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the groove has an inner wall and an outer wall, the outer wall, viewed from the longitudinal axis, being positioned radially outwardly from the inner wall, the outer wall being provided with serrations extending radially inwards. extend into the groove. 5. Trapliftgeleidingsrailelement volgens één der conclusies 3 — 4, waarbij de projectie een buitenwand en een binnenwand heeft die radiaal inwaarts van de buitenwand gepositioneerd is, waarbij buitenwand is voorzien van vertandingen.Stairlift guide rail element according to any one of claims 3 - 4, wherein the projection has an outer wall and an inner wall positioned radially inwardly of the outer wall, the outer wall being provided with serrations. 6. Traplifigeleidingsrail-element volgens één der conclusies 3 — 5, waarbij de vertandingen tanden zijn.Staircase guide rail element according to any one of claims 3 - 5, wherein the teeth are teeth. 7. Trapliftgeleidingsrail-element volgens één der voorgaande conclusies, waarbij een zijwand van het trapliftgeleidingsrail-element voorzien van een aantal openingen die zich radiaal inwaarts door de zijwand uitstrekken, waarbij de openingne zijn ingericht voor het ontvangen van verbindingsmiddelen.A stairlift guide rail element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a side wall of the stair lift guide rail element is provided with a plurality of openings extending radially inwardly through the side wall, the openings being adapted to receive connecting means. 8. Trapliftgeleidingsrail-element volgens één der voorgaande conclusies, waarbij een projectie-zijwand van de projectie is voorzien van een aantal groeven, waarbij het aantal groeven is ingericht voor het ontvangen van verbindingsmiddelen.A stairlift guide rail element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a projection side wall of the projection is provided with a plurality of grooves, the plurality of grooves being adapted to receive connecting means. 9. Trapliftgeleidingsrail-element volgens conclusie 8, wanneer afhankelijk van conclusie 7, waarbij elke opening van het aantal openingen van een eerste trapliftgeleidingsrail-element zodanig naast een groef van een aantal groeven van een tweede trapliftgeleidingsrail-element zijn gepositioneerd, dat het eerst trapliftgeleidingsrail-element en het tweede traplifigeleidingsrail-element verbindbaar zijn met verbindingsmiddelen, zoals schroeven of bouten, die, wanneer toegepast, door de openingen in de groeven reiken.The stair lift guide rail element of claim 8 when dependent on claim 7, wherein each opening of the plurality of openings of a first stair lift guide rail element is positioned adjacent to a groove of a plurality of grooves of a second stair lift guide rail element such that the first stair lift guide rail element is element and the second stairway guide rail element are connectable to connecting means, such as screws or bolts, which, when used, extend through the openings in the grooves. 10. Trapliftgeleidingsrail-element volgens één der voorgaande conclusies, waarbij een projectie-zijwand van de projectie een N aantal inkepingen omvat die bij voorkeur op evenredige afstand rond de buitenomtrek van de projectie-zijwand gepositioneerd zijn.A stairlift guide rail element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a projection sidewall of the projection comprises an N number of notches, which are preferably positioned at a proportional distance around the outer periphery of the projection sidewall. 11. Trapliftgeleidingsrail-element volgens één der voorgaande conclusies, waarbij de groef een bodemwand heeft die zich in hoofdzaak loodrecht op de longitudinale as uitstrekt, waarbij de bodemwand is voorzien van één of meer openingen die zijn ingericht voor het ontvangen van verbindingsmiddelen.Stairlift guide rail element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the groove has a bottom wall which extends substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, the bottom wall being provided with one or more openings adapted to receive connecting means. 12. Trapliftgeleidingsrail-verbinder omvattende: — een ringvormig element; en — een projectie die verbonden is met een buitenwand van het ringvormig element, waarbij de projectie is ingericht voor het accommoderen van een rack van een traplift, waarbij het ringvormig element een buitenomtrek heeft die in hoofdzaak gelijk is aan een buitenomtrek van een traplifigeleidingsrail-element volgens één van de voorgaande conclusies.12. Stairlift guide rail connector comprising: - an annular element; and - a projection connected to an outer wall of the annular element, the projection being adapted to accommodate a stairlift rack, the annular element having an outer circumference substantially equal to an outer circumference of a stairlift guide rail element according to any one of the preceding claims. 13. Trapliftgeleidingsrail-verbinder volgens conclusie 12, waarbij een binnenwand van het ringvormig element is voorzien van vertandingen, waarbij de vertandingen bij voorkeur zijn ingericht voor het in elkaar passend verbinden met een projectie van het traplifigeleidingsrail- element.A stairlift guide rail connector according to claim 12, wherein an inner wall of the annular element is provided with serrations, the serrations preferably being adapted to fit together with a projection of the stair lift guide rail element. 14. Recht trapliftgeleidingsrail-element omvattende: — een buisvormig element voorzien van een wand met een binnenzijde en een buitenzijde; — een projectie die zich radiaal uitwaarts uitstrekt vanaf de buitenzijde en die is voorzien van: ~ verbindingsmiddelen voor het verbinden van een rack van een traplift; en/of ~ ondersteuningsverbindingsmiddelen voor het verbinden van een steun aan de projectie.14. Straight stairlift guide rail element comprising: - a tubular element provided with a wall with an inner side and an outer side; — a projection extending radially outwardly from the outside and comprising: ~ connecting means for connecting a stairlift rack; and/or ~ support connecting means for connecting a support to the projection. 15. Recht trapliftgeleidingsrail-element volgens conclusie 14, waarbij de binnenzijde is voorzien van een N aantal zich radiaal inwaarts uitstrekkende projecties, die verbindingsmiddelen omvatten voor het verbinden van het rechte trapliftgeleidingsrail-element met een ander trapliftgeleidingsrail-element.A straight stairlift guide rail element according to claim 14, wherein the inner side is provided with an N number of radially inwardly extending projections comprising connecting means for connecting the straight stair lift guide rail element to another stair lift guide rail element. 16. Recht traplifigeleidingsrail-element volgens conclusie 14 of 15, waarbij het element uit geëxtrudeerd aluminium is vervaardigd.16. Straight staircase guide rail element according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the element is made of extruded aluminum. 17. Geleidingsrailsamenstel omvattende: — een aantal trapliftgeleidingsrail-elementen volgens één der conclusies 1 — 11; — een aantal traplifigeleidingsrail-verbinders volgens één der conclusies 12 — 13; en — een aantal trapliftgeleidingsrailelementen volgens één der conclusies 14 — 16.17. Guide rail assembly comprising: - a number of stairlift guide rail elements according to any one of claims 1-11; - a plurality of stairway guide rail connectors according to any one of claims 12-13; and - a plurality of stairlift guide rail elements according to any one of claims 14 to 16. 18. Werkwijze voor het assembleren van een trapliftgeleidingsrail, de werkwijze omvattende de stappen van: — het verschaffen van een set trapliftgeleidingsrail-elementen, omvattende: ~ het verschaffen van een aantal trapliftgeleidingsrail-elementen volgens één der conclusies 1 — 11; ~ het verschaffen van een aantal trapliftgeleidingsrail-verbinders volgens één der conclusies 12 — 13; en ~ het verschaffen van een aantal trapliftgeleidingsrail-elementen volgens één der conclusies 14 — 16; — het verbinden van elk van de trapliftgeleidingsrail-verbinders met een geassocieerd traplifgeleidingsrail-element; enA method of assembling a stairlift guide rail, the method comprising the steps of: - providing a set of stairlift guide rail elements, comprising: - providing a plurality of stairlift guide rail elements according to any one of claims 1-11; ~ providing a plurality of stairlift guide rail connectors according to any one of claims 12-13; and ~ providing a plurality of stairlift guide rail elements according to any one of claims 14 - 16; - connecting each of the stair lift guide rail connectors to an associated stair lift guide rail element; and — het met elkaar verbinden van het aantal traplifigeleidingsrail-elementen en het aantal rechte trapliftgeleidingsrail-elementen voor het vormen van een geleidingsrail.- connecting the plurality of stairlift guide rail elements and the plurality of straight stairlift guide rail elements together to form a guide rail. 19. Werkwijze volgens conclusie 18, waarbij — de stap van het verbinden van elk van de trapliftgeleidingsrail-verbinders met een geassocieerd trapliftgeleidingsrail-element het over een projectie van een trapliftgeleidingsrail-element schuiven van een ringvormig element omvat; en — de stap van het met elkaar verbinden van het aantal trapliftgeleidingsrail-elementen en het aantal rechte trapliftgeleidingsrail-elementen omvat: ~ het schuiven van een projectie van een eerste traplifigeleidingsrail-element in een groef van een tweede trapliftgeleidingsrail-element en/of het schuiven van de projectie van een eerste traplifigeleidingsrail-element in een recht trapliftgeleidingsrail-element; en ~ het verbinden van de elementen met gebruik van verbindings- of vergrendelingsmiddelen.The method of claim 18, wherein - the step of connecting each of the stairlift guide rail connectors to an associated stair lift guide rail element comprises sliding an annular element over a projection of a stair lift guide rail element; and - the step of connecting the plurality of stairlift guide rail elements and the plurality of straight stairlift guide rail elements together comprises: sliding a projection of a first stairlift guide rail element into a groove of a second stairlift guide rail element and/or sliding of the projection of a first stair lift guide rail element in a straight stair lift guide rail element; and ~ connecting the elements using connecting or locking means. 20. Werkwijze volgens conclusie 19, waarbij de stap van het schuiven vooraf wordt gegaan door de stap van het roteren van de eerste en de tweede trapliftgeleidingsrail-elementen ten opzichte van elkaar voor het positioneren van de elementen volgens een gewenste krommingshoek.The method of claim 19, wherein the step of sliding is preceded by the step of rotating the first and second stairlift guide rail elements relative to each other to position the elements according to a desired angle of curvature.
NL2027325A 2021-01-15 2021-01-15 Stairlift guide rail element, guide rail assembly and method for installing a stairlift guide rail NL2027325B1 (en)

Priority Applications (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
NL2027325A NL2027325B1 (en) 2021-01-15 2021-01-15 Stairlift guide rail element, guide rail assembly and method for installing a stairlift guide rail
EP22700691.3A EP4277869A1 (en) 2021-01-15 2022-01-17 Stairlift guide rail element, guide rail assembly and method for installing a stairlift guide rail
PCT/NL2022/050015 WO2022154663A1 (en) 2021-01-15 2022-01-17 Stairlift guide rail element, guide rail assembly and method for installing a stairlift guide rail

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
NL2027325A NL2027325B1 (en) 2021-01-15 2021-01-15 Stairlift guide rail element, guide rail assembly and method for installing a stairlift guide rail

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
NL2027325B1 true NL2027325B1 (en) 2022-07-25

Family

ID=75108737

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
NL2027325A NL2027325B1 (en) 2021-01-15 2021-01-15 Stairlift guide rail element, guide rail assembly and method for installing a stairlift guide rail

Country Status (3)

Country Link
EP (1) EP4277869A1 (en)
NL (1) NL2027325B1 (en)
WO (1) WO2022154663A1 (en)

Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2011064582A1 (en) 2009-11-24 2011-06-03 Acorn Mobility Services Limited Kit for the guide of a stairlift
US20150034423A1 (en) * 2012-02-29 2015-02-05 Otto Ooms B.V. Device and Rail System for Conveying a Load from a First to a Second Level, in Particular a Stair Lift
GB2529132A (en) * 2014-05-30 2016-02-17 Stannah Stairlifts Ltd Improvements in or relating to stairlifts
EP3153453A1 (en) * 2015-10-09 2017-04-12 Devi-Group B.V. A method for the assembly of a stairlift guide rail, and a kit
CN107879224B (en) * 2017-10-16 2019-12-17 常州市武进金城齿轮有限公司 adjustable track

Patent Citations (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2011064582A1 (en) 2009-11-24 2011-06-03 Acorn Mobility Services Limited Kit for the guide of a stairlift
US20150034423A1 (en) * 2012-02-29 2015-02-05 Otto Ooms B.V. Device and Rail System for Conveying a Load from a First to a Second Level, in Particular a Stair Lift
GB2529132A (en) * 2014-05-30 2016-02-17 Stannah Stairlifts Ltd Improvements in or relating to stairlifts
EP3153453A1 (en) * 2015-10-09 2017-04-12 Devi-Group B.V. A method for the assembly of a stairlift guide rail, and a kit
EP3153453B1 (en) 2015-10-09 2020-02-19 Devi-Group B.V. A method for the assembly of a stairlift guide rail
CN107879224B (en) * 2017-10-16 2019-12-17 常州市武进金城齿轮有限公司 adjustable track

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP4277869A1 (en) 2023-11-22
WO2022154663A1 (en) 2022-07-21

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP3039203B1 (en) A stair case
US9664225B2 (en) Fastening means for pre-assembly of a pin-shaped joining means in a through-hole of a structural element
US4221542A (en) Segmented blade retainer
US8672366B2 (en) Pipe coupling arrangement
US20200011063A1 (en) Tubular structure connecting assembly
US20100218451A1 (en) Structural members with gripping features and joining arrangements therefor
NL2027325B1 (en) Stairlift guide rail element, guide rail assembly and method for installing a stairlift guide rail
US9995466B2 (en) Concealed connection system for luminaires
US20120280551A1 (en) Easy-to-assemble/recycle armrest
US20050284043A1 (en) Stair system with expandable center
KR100786183B1 (en) Rail and supports therefor
US20090188183A1 (en) Stair system with adjustable width
US20180023401A1 (en) Wheel disk assembly having simplified sealing-plate mounting
US10920503B2 (en) Oil well casing centralizing standoff connector and adaptor
US5599094A (en) Mounting system for light fixture
US20110192099A1 (en) Modular spiral staircase assembly
US4587780A (en) Spiral staircase
US7287961B2 (en) Retaining arrangement
US11352797B2 (en) Platform transition and interface for the same
US6283270B1 (en) Escalator step with removable demarcation inserts
CN107757259A (en) Non-inflatable tyre
AU2012101536B4 (en) Tactile ground surface indicator having a deformable retainer
AU2018236829A1 (en) Step Feature
EP1258578A2 (en) Tube connector
WO2014032091A1 (en) A stair case