A ROPE STORAGE UNIT, A METHOD FOR INSTALLING
ELEVATOR AND A METHOD FOR FABRICATING ROPE
STORAGE UNIT
Field of the invention
The invention relates to storing of a rope, to installing of an elevator rope as
well as a fabricating a rope storage unit. The rope is, in particular, a rope for an
elevator meant for transporting passengers and/or goods.
Background of the invention
Storing of a rope may be needed in various stages of its lifetime. The storing is
conventionally implemented by forming a rope reel of the rope so that it can be
stored and/or transported as a compact unit. In the field of elevators, storing is
usually needed for transporting the rope to the site, and further to the specific
installation location where the rope can be unwound and installed in the
elevator. Ropes are typically irreversibly flexible such that after bending the
rope into a curve, it does not reverse back to its original form. These kinds of
ropes usually comprise load bearing members made of twisted wires or
equivalents. This kind of rope is easy to wind around a drum where it can be
stored until a later unwinding. Also such ropes exist, which are rod-like and
have a straight form when in rest state. A this kind of rope is presented in
patent publication WO2009090299 A1. This kind of ropes are relatively rigid,
but elastically bendable, and the rope self-reverses back to a straight form
from bent form in rest state, i.e. after all bending directed to it ceases. A
known way to store this kind of ropes has been to form a rope reel of the rope
by winding it around a drum and subsequently tying the rope end against the
outer rim of the rope reel so that the rope reel cannot unwind. This known
method has caused difficulties in later unwinding process. In particular, after
releasing the rope end, the rope end has been difficult to control. Especially, it
has been found out that the bending tension is prone to cause difficulties in
unwinding of the rope. The rope tends to straighten as an effect of said
bending tension and may easily escape from the hands of the person

preparing the unwinding operation. Avoiding this type of events has
necessitated auxiliary means for controlling the rope end once it has been
freed from the reel.
Brief description of the invention
The object of the invention is, inter alia, to solve previously described
drawbacks of known solutions and problems discussed later in the description
of the invention. The object of the invention is to introduce a rope storage unit
whereby an elastically bendable relatively rigid rope can be stored as a rope
reel in a simple and stabile way. An object of the invention is also to introduce
a method for installing of an elevator rope utilizing said rope storage unit,
whereby simplicity of the rope installation process can be facilitated. An object
of the invention is also to introduce a method for fabricating a rope storage
unit.
It is brought forward a new rope storage unit, comprising a rope reel, formed
by a rope wound in a spiral form, and a support body provided with an inner
space inside which the rope reel is positioned supported by the support body.
The rope is a rod having a straight form when in rest state and elastically
bendable away from the straight form. The rope is thereby self-reversible to
straight form from bent form. The rope is under substantial bending tension in
said spiral form. The support body comprises one or more support members
delimiting said inner space and surrounding radially said rope reel, the outer
rim of the rope reel radially compressing against said one or more support
members as an effect of said bending tension. Said support member /
members thereby delimit(s) the radius of the rope reel from expanding, and
thereby block the rope of the reel from straightening. The rope is preferably a
rope for an elevator, in particular for suspending at least an elevator car. Thus
the rope can be stored as a rope reel in a simple and stabile way. The rope
storage unit is in particular a movable storage unit so that the rope can be
transported within the rope storage unit to an installation site of an elevator, for

instance. Preferably the rope storage unit is of a size and weight transportable
with a fork lift.
In a preferred embodiment said rope has width larger than thickness thereof in
transverse direction of the rope, and the rope is wound in said spiral form by
bending it around an axis extending in width-direction of the rope. Thus, the
rope settles easily in the spiral form and formation of twist can be avoided.
In a preferred embodiment the rope is wound in a spiral form with several rope
rounds, including at least an outermost rope round having an outer rim and
forming at least part of the aforementioned outer rim of the rope reel, radially
compressing against said one or more support members as an effect of said
bending tension, as well as several inner rope rounds each having an outer rim
ractially compressing, as an effect of said bending tension, against the inner
rim of the rope round next in radial direction.
In a preferred embodiment said rope comprises one or more load bearing
members made of composite material comprising reinforcing fibers in polymer
matrix. This kind of structure facilitates good load supporting properties, but
also requires a great force to bend the rope into spiral form, which causes a
great bending tension. Thereby, the storing solution as disclosed is especially
advantageous with this rope. Said reinforcing fibers are preferably carbon
fibers. These fibers facilitate rope lightness and tensile stiffness, thereby
making the rope well suitable for elevator use. In this case especially, a great
force to bend the rope into spiral form is required. Thereby, the storing solution
as disclosed is especially advantageous with this rope.
In a preferred embodiment said load bearing member(s) is/are parallel with the
length direction of the rope. The straight structure provides a high bending
rigidity, whereby a great force to bend the rope into spiral form is required.
Thereby, the storing solution as disclosed is especially advantageous with this
rope.

In a preferred embodiment the support member(s) are in supporting contact
with the outer rim of the rope reel along majority of the rim of the rope reel.
Thus, the supporting force is evenly distributed and the rope is protected by
the support member(s). In the preferred embodiment, the support member(s)
delimit a cylindrical inner space and surround(s) radially said rope reel. The
inner rim of the cylindrical inner space is in contact with the rope reel along
majority of the rim of the rope reel, more preferably along more than 80 % of
the rim of the rope reel, or even along complete rim of the rope reel.
In a preferred embodiment said reinforcing fibers are parallel with the length
direction of the rope. The straight structure provides a high bending rigidity,
whereby a great force to bend the rope into spiral form is required. Thereby,
the storing solution as disclosed is especially advantageous with this rope.
Preferably, the load bearing member(s), as well as the reinforcing fibers are
parallel with the length direction of the rope, and thereby substantially
untwisted relative to each other. The fibers are thus aligned with the force
when the rope is pulled, which facilitates good tensile stiffness. Also, behaviour
during bending is advantageous as the load bearing members retain their
structure during bending. The wear life of the rope is, for instance long
because no chafing takes place inside the rope. Preferably, individual
reinforcing fibers are homogeneously distributed in said polymer matrix.
Preferably, over 50% of the cross-sectional square area of the load-bearing
member consists of said reinforcing fiber.
In a preferred embodiment each of said load bearing member(s) has width
larger than thickness thereof as measured in width-direction of the rope.
In a preferred embodiment said one or more load bearing members is/are
embedded in elastomeric coating.
In a preferred embodiment the rope comprises a plurality of said load bearing
members adjacent in width-direction of the rope.

In a preferred embodiment the rope reel is formed by the rope wound in a two-
dimensional spiral form.
In a preferred embodiment that the rope reel is formed by the rope wound in a
three-dimensional spiral form.
In a preferred embodiment it comprises a second rope reel, consisting of a
second rope wound in a spiral form the second rope being a rod having a
straight form when in rest state and elastically bendable away from the straight
form. The rope is thereby self-reversible to straight form from bent form. The
second rope is under substantial bending tension in said spiral form, the outer
rim of the second rope reel radially compressing against the inner rim of said
first rope reel, directly or via intermediate support elements, such as paddings,
surrounding the second rope reel, as an effect of said bending tension.
In a preferred embodiment the second rope is wound in a spiral form with
several rope rounds, including at least an outermost rope round having an
outer rim, and forming at least part of the aforementioned outer rim of the
second rope reel, radially compressing against the inner rim of said first rope
reel, directly or via intermediate support elements surrounding the second rope
reel, as an effect of said bending tension , as well as several inner rope rounds
each having an outer rim radially compressing, as an effect of said bending
tension, against the inner rim of the rope round next in radial direction.
In a preferred embodiment said one or more support members delimit(s) a
cylindrical inner space. Said cylindrical inner space has preferably in axial
direction open side via which the reel can be brought inside the inner space
and/or via which the rope can be guided away from the rope reel.
In a preferred embodiment the support body comprises a support drum formed
by said one or more support members delimiting a cylindrical inner space.
In a preferred embodiment the support drum is made of one or more bent
fiberboard members bent or otherwise molded into curved shape. The curved

form is preferably an arc form with inner radius of curvature corresponding to
that of the outer radius of rope reel.
In a preferred embodiment the support body comprises a support shaft via
which the rope storage unit can be rotatably mounted.
In a preferred embodiment the support shaft is positioned within the free
central space inside the rope reel, coaxially with the rope reel.
In a preferred embodiment the rope reel delimit(s) a free central space inside
the rope reel, and the rope wound in a spiral form has an end extending from
the outer rim of the rope reel and an end extending from the inner rim of the
rope reel, the rope being unwindable by guiding the end extending from the
inner rim away from the rope reel via said free central space. Said central
space is preferably cylindrical.
In a preferred embodiment the rope is wound in a spiral form with several rope
rounds, including at least an radially outermost rope round, and an radially
innermost rope round, rope being unwindable rope round by rope round
starting from the innermost rope round.
In a preferred embodiment the rope has a first end and a second end, the first
end particularly forming an end for the outermost round and the second end
particularly forming an end for the innermost rope round.
In a preferred embodiment the inner rim of the rope reel delimit(s) a free
central space inside the rope reel, the central space having in axial direction
open side via which the rope can be guided away from the rope reel.
In a preferred embodiment the rope is wound in a spiral form with several rope
rounds, intermediate rope rounds between the innermost and outermost rope
rounds, the intermediate rope rounds radially compressing against the next
outer rope round as an effect of said bending tension.

It is brought forward a new method for installing an elevator rope, comprising
the steps of providing a rope storage unit according to any one of the
preceding claims; and unwinding the rope from the rope storage unit; and
connecting the rope to one or more movable elevator units, said units including
at least an elevator car and preferably also a counterweight.
In a preferred embodiment said unwinding comprises unwinding the rope by
rotating the rope support body supporting the rope reel.
In a preferred embodiment said unwinding comprises unwinding the rope
starting from the center.
In a preferred embodiment the method comprises before said unwinding
mounting the rope storage unit rotatably (via a support shaft comprised in the
support body).
In a preferred embodiment the method comprises before said unwinding
guiding the rope to pass via a rope guide mounted stationary at proximity of
the rope reel.
In a preferred embodiment the rope is wound in a spiral form with several rope
rounds, including at least an radially outermost rope round, and an radially
innermost rope round, and in said unwinding the rope is unwound round by
rope round starting from the innermost rope round.
In a preferred embodiment the rope reel delimit(s) a free central space, which
inside the rope reel, and the rope wound in a spiral form has an end extending
from the inner rim of the rope reel, and said unwinding comprises guiding said
end away from the rope reel via said free central space. Thus, the rope can be
unwound starting from the center. The rope can thus be unwound so that each
round of the rope still unwound and remaining on the rope reel stays tensioned
against the next outer round, the outermost round staying tensioned against
said support member(s). Thereby, self-progressing of the unwinding can be
avoided and the unwinding process can be kept easily under control.

In a preferred embodiment the inner rim of the rope reel delimit(s) a free
central space inside the rope reel, the central space having in axial direction
open side via which the rope is guided away from the rope reel. Thus the rope
can be unwound from the side of the reel.
It is brought forward a new method for fabricating an elevator rope storage
unit, comprising the steps of providing a rope, which is a rod having a straight
form when in rest state and elastically bendable away from the straight form.
The rope is thereby self-reversible to straight form from bent form. The method
further comprises providing a support body provided with an inner space, the
support body comprising one or more support members delimiting said inner
space; forming a rope reel by winding the rope) in a spiral form; positioning the
rope inside the inner space such that it is supported by the support body and
surrounded radially by said one or more support members, and such that the
rope is under substantial bending tension in said spiral form, the outer rim of
the rope reel radially compressing against said one or more support members
as an effect of said bending tension. Said support member/members thereby
delimit the radius of the rope reel from expanding, and thereby block the rope
reel from straightening. The rope storage unit can be thus fabricated to have
structure as defined anywhere above or elsewhere in the application.
In a preferred embodiment the rope reel is positioned inside the inner space
after said forming a rope reel by winding the rope in a spiral form.
In a preferred embodiment said one or more support members radially
delimit(s) a cylindrical inner space having in axial direction open side, and the
rope reel is positioned inside the inner space by moving the rope reel inside
the inner space via the in axial direction open side of the cylindrical inner
space after said forming a rope reel by winding the rope in a spiral form.
In a preferred embodiment in said forming, the rope is wound in a spiral form
around a support hub, and thereafter removed from the hub while keeping the
rope reel from unwinding. For this purpose, the rope can be tied together with
a tie, band or equivalent, which is later removed.

In a preferred embodiment the load bearing member(s) of the rope cover(s)
majority, preferably 70% or over, more preferably 75% or over, most preferably
80% or over, most preferably 85% or over, of the width of the cross-section of
the rope. In this way at least majority of the width of the rope will be effectively
utilized and the rope can be formed to be light and thin in the bending direction
for reducing the bending resistance.
In a preferred embodiment the module of elasticity (E) of the polymer matrix is
over 2 GPa, most preferably over 2.5 GPa, yet more preferably in the range
2.5-10 GPa, most preferably of all in the range 2.5-3.5 GPa. In this way a
structure is achieved wherein the matrix essentially supports the reinforcing
fibers, in particular from buckling. One advantage, among others, is a longer
service life. This kind of matrix also facilitates the elastic bending of the rope,
yet requiring a great bending force causing great bending tension. Thereby,
the storing solution as disclosed is especially advantageous with this rope.
The elevator as describe anywhere above is preferably, but not necessarily,
installed inside a building. The car is preferably arranged to serve two or more
landings. The car preferably is arranged to respond to calls from landing(s)
and/or destination commands from inside the car so as to serve persons on
the landing(s) and/or inside the elevator car. Preferably, the car has an interior
space suitable for receiving a passenger or passengers.
Brief description of the drawings
In the following, the present invention will be described in more detail by way of
example and with reference to the attached drawings, in which
Figure 1 illustrates a rope storage unit according to an embodiment.
Figure 2 illustrates a rope storage unit according to another embodiment.
Figures 3 illustrates alternative preferred rope structures.
Figure 4 illustrates a preferred internal structure for the load bearing member.
Figure 5 illustrates an installation method.
Figure 6 illustrates further preferable details for the rope storage unit.
Figure 7 illustrates a rope storage unit according to a third embodiment.

Detailed description
Figures 1 and 2 illustrate embodiments of a rope storage unit 1,1'. In both
embodiments, the rope storage unit 1,1' comprises a rope reel 2, formed by a
rope 3,3',3",3'" wound in a spiral form. The rope storage unit 1, 1' further
comprises a support body 4,4' provided with an inner space 5,5' inside which
the rope reel 2 is positioned supported by the support body 4,4'. The rope
3,3',3",3'" has two ends, i.e. a first end and a second end. The rope 3,3',3",3'"
is a rigid rope, more specifically it has a rod-like structure. The rod, i.e. the
rope 3,3',3",3'", has a straight form when in rest state. In particular, the rod i.e.
the rope 3,3',3",3'", is elastically bendable away from the straight form.
Thereby, it self-reverses to straight form from bent form. For this reason, the
rope rope 3,3',3",3'" is under substantial bending tension in said spiral form.
The support body 4,4' comprises one or more support members 6,6' . The
support members 6,6' delimit and surround radially, in particularly its/their
inner face(s), said inner space 5,5' said rope reel 4,4'. In the embodiment as
illustrated in Figure 1 the support body 4 comprises a single support member 6
said inner space 5 and surrounding radially said rope reel 4, whereas in the
embodiment as illustrated in Figure 2 the support body 4' comprises a single
support member 6' said inner space 5' and surrounding radially said rope reel
4'. The outer rim of the rope reel 2 radially compresses against said one or
more support members 6,6' as an effect of said bending tension, said support
member/members 6,6' thereby delimiting the radius of the rope reel 2 from
expanding forced by the bending tension. Thereby said support
member/members 6,6' blocks/block the rope of the rope reel 2 from
straightening.
As illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, the rope 3,3',3",3'" is wound in a spiral form
with several rope rounds, including at least an outermost rope round having an
outer rim, and forming at least part of the the aforementioned outer rim of the
rope reel, radially compressing against said one or more support members 6,6'
as an effect of said bending tension, as well as several inner rope rounds each
having an outer rim radially compressing, as an effect of said bending tension,

against the inner rim of the rope round next in radial direction. The rope reel 2
is formed by the rope 3,3',3",3'" wound in either a two-dimensional spiral form,
illustrated in Figures 1 to 2, in which case substantially all the rope rounds are
on a same plane. Alternatively, the rope reel 2 is formed by the rope 3,3',3",3'"
wound in either a three-dimensional spiral form whereby substantially all the
rope rounds are not on a same plane and the rope rounds pass in a slight
angle relative to radial plane of the rope reel back and forth in axial direction as
it is commonly known in the field of winding rope reels or corresponding reels.
The rope 3,3',3",3'" is wound in a spiral form with several rope rounds,
including at least an radially outermost rope round, and an radially innermost
rope round, as well as intermediate rope rounds between the innermost and
outermost rope rounds, the innermost rope round as well as each intermediate
rope round radially compressing against the next (outer) rope round as an
effect of said bending tension.
The rope reel 2, in particular the inner rim of rope reel, in particular the
innermost rope round(s) thereof, delimit(s) a free central space C inside the
rope reel 2. The central space C is thereby at least substantially round in cross
section as viewed in axial direction of the rope reel 2. The rope 3,3',3",3'" is
unwindable rope round by rope round starting from the innermost rope round.
When the rope 3,3',3",3'" is of belt-like structure, and/or when the rope reel 2
is wound three-dimensional spiral form, the central space C is cylindrical. The
central space C has a side in axial direction of the rope reel 2, which is fully or
at least partially open or openable via which side the rope 3,3',3",3'" can be
guided away from the rope reel 2. The rope 3,3',3",3'" wound in a spiral form
has an end E extending from the outer rim of the rope reel 2 and an end
extending from the inner rim of the rope reel 2, the rope being unwindable by
guiding the inner end away from the rope reel 2 via said free central space C.
Thus, the rope 3,3',3",3'" can be unwound so that each round of the rope
3,3',3",3'" still unwound and remaining on the rope reel 2 stays tensioned
against the next outer round, the outermost round staying tensioned against

said support member(s) 6, 6'. Thereby, self-progressing of the unwinding can
be avoided and the unwinding process can be kept easily under control.
Thereby, also safety is improved.
The rope is preferably a belt-like rope. That is, the rope 3,3',3",3'" has width
larger than thickness thereof in transverse direction of the rope 3,3',3",3'".
Then, the rope 3,3',3",3'" is wound in said spiral form by bending it around an
axis extending in width-direction of the rope 3,3',3",3'". Thus, the rope
3,3',3",3'" settles easily in the spiral form. Due to the belt-like construction, it
resists from strongly bending away from a coplanar configuration. Thus, the
rope reel 2 maintains well its spiral reel configuration and is not prone to
unwind accidentally. In this way, also formation of twist can be avoided.
The support body 4, 4' preferably comprises a support drum formed by said
one or more support members 6,6', which delimit(s) a cylindrical inner space
5,5'. The support drum is made of one or more bent fiberboard members. In
the embodiment of Figure 1 the support drum is made of one fiberboard
member 6 bent into curved shape and in the embodiment of Figure 2 the
support drum is made of several fiberboard members 6 bent into curved
shape, fiberboard members 6 together forming said drum. The curved form is
an arc form providing an inner radius of curvature for the support member(s)
6,6', which corresponds to that of the outer radius of the rope reel 2 radially
compressing against the support members 6,6'. Said cylindrical inner space
5,5' has in axial direction an open or at least openable side so that the rope
3,3',3",3'" can be positioned inside it via the open side as a fully in spiral form
wound rope reel 2.
Said rope 3,3',3",3'" is preferably such that it comprises one or more load
bearing members 8, 8', 8", 8'" made of composite material comprising
reinforcing fibers f in polymer matrix m. Preferred alternatives for the cross
section of the rope 3,3',3",3'" are presented in Figures 3a to 3d. Preferably, the
reinforcing fibers f are carbon fibers. Thus a light rope with high tensile

stiffness can be obtained. Said load bearing member(s) 8, 8', 8", 8'" is/are
parallel with the length direction of the rope. For example with this structure
the rope 3,3',3",3'" is elastically bendable away from the straight form.
Thereby, it self-reverses to straight form from bent form However, it is rigid to
bend and therefore using the rope storage unit 1, 1' to store this rope is
advantageus. Also, using other reinforcing fibers as fibers f of the composite
material, such as glass fiber, can provide these properties for the rope
3,3',3",3'". Said reinforcing fibers are preferably also parallel with the length
direction of the rope so the tensile stiffness can be maximized. It is preferable,
that each of said load bearing member(s) 8, 8', 8", 8'" has width w,w',w",w'"
larger than thickness t,t',t",t'" thereof as measured in width-direction of the
rope 3,3',3",3'". In this way a large cross-sectional area for the load bearing
member/parts 3,3',3",3'" is achieved, without weakening the bending capacity
around an axis extending in the width (extending from left to right in Figure 3)
direction of the rope 3,3',3",3'". A small number of wide load bearing members
comprised in the rope leads to efficient utilization of the width of the rope, thus
making it possible to keep the rope width of the rope in advantageous limits.
Each rope 3, 3' as illustrated in Fig 3a and 3b comprises only one load bearing
member 8,8'. Each rope 3",3'" as illustrated in Fig 3c and 3d comprises a
plurality of load bearing members 8",8'". The load bearing members 8",8'"
are adjacent in width-direction of the rope 3",3'". They are parallel in length
direction of the rope and coplanarly positioned. Thus the resistance to bending
in their thickness direction is small. The preferred internal structure for the load
bearing member(s) 8, 8',8",8'" is disclosed elsewhere in this application, in
particular in connection with Fig 4.
The toad bearing member 8 can be without an elastomeric coating as
presented in Figure 3a. Thereby, the load bearing member may form as such
the rope 3. The load bearing members 8',8",8" of each rope presented in
Figures 3b to 3d is/are surrounded with a coating p in which the load bearing
members 8',8",8" are embedded. It provides the surface for contacting a drive

wheel of the elevator, for instance. Coating p is preferably of polymer, most
preferably of an elastomer, most preferably polyurethane, and forms the
surface of the rope 3',3",3'". It enhances effectively the ropes frictional
engagement to the drive wheel 3 and protects the rope. For facilitating the
formation of the load bearing member 8, 8', 8", 8"' and for achieving constant
properties in the lenght direction it is preferred that the structure of the load
bearing member 8, 8' continues essentially the same for the whole length of
the rope 3,3',3",3'".
As mentioned, the rope 3,3',3",3'" is belt-shaped, particularly having two wide
sides opposite each other. The width/thickness ratio of the rope is preferably at
least at least 4, more preferably at least 5 or more, even more preferably at
least 6, even more preferably at least 7 or more, yet even more preferably at
least 8 or more. In this way a large cross-sectional area for the rope is
achieved, the bending capacity around the width-directional axis being good
also with rigid materials of the load bearing member. Thereby the rope suits
well to be positioned in the rope support structure 6,6' in bent form, as well as
to the use of suspending an elevator car.
The rope 3,3',3",3'" is preferably furthermore such that the aforementioned
load bearing member 8 or a plurality of load bearing members 8', 8", 8"' ,
comprised in the rope 3,3',3",3'", together cover majority, preferably 70% or
over, more preferably 75% or over, most preferably 80% or over, most
preferably 85% or over, of the width of the cross-section of the rope 3,3',3",3'"
for essentially the whole length of the rope 3,3',3",3'". Thus the supporting
capacity of the rope with respect to its total lateral dimensions is good, and the
rope does not need to be formed to be thick. This can be simply implemented
with the composite as specified elsewhere in the application and this is
particularly advantageous from the standpoint of, among other things, service
life and bending rigidity in elevator use. The width of the rope 3,3',3",3'" is
thus also minimized by utilizing their width efficiently with wide load bearing
member and using composite material. Individual belt-like ropes and the
bundle they form can in this way be formed compact.

The inner structure of the load bearing member 8, 8',8",8'" is more specifically
as illustrated in Figure 4 and described in the following. The load bearing
member 8, 8',8",8'" with its fibers oriented in length direction of the rope, i.e.
parallel with the length direction of the rope, for which reason the rope retains
its structure when bending. Individual fibers are thus oriented in the length
direction of the rope. In this case the fibers f are aligned with the force when
the rope is pulled in its length direction. Individual reinforcing fibers f are bound
into a uniform load bearing member with the polymer matrix m in which they
are embedded. Thus, each load bearing member 8, 8',8",8'" is one solid
elongated rodlike piece. The reinforcing fibers f are preferably long continuous
fibers in the length direction of the rope 3,3',3",3'" and the fibers f preferably
continue for the distance of the whole length of the rope 3,3',3",3'" . Preferably
as many fibers f as possible, most preferably essentially all the fibers f of the
load bearing member 8, 8',8",8'" are oriented in length direction of the rope.
The reinforcing fibers f are in this case essentially untwisted in relation to each
other. Thus the structure of the load bearing member can be made to continue
the same as far as possible in terms of its cross-section for the whole length of
the rope. The reinforcing fibers f are preferably distributed in the
aforementioned load bearing member 8, 8',8",8'" as evenly as possible, so
that the load bearing member 8, 8',8",8"' would be as homogeneous as
possible in the transverse direction of the rope. An advantage of the structure
presented is that the matrix m surrounding the reinforcing fibers f keeps the
interpositioning of the reinforcing fibers f essentially unchanged. It equalizes
with its slight elasticity the distribution of a force exerted on the fibers, reduces
fiber-fiber contacts and internal wear of the rope, thus improving the service life
of the rope. The reinforcing fibers being carbon fibers, a good tensile rigidity
and a light structure and good thermal properties, among other things, are
achieved. They possess good strength properties and rigidity properties with
small cross sectional area, thus facilitating space efficiency of a roping with
certain strength or rigidity requirements. They also tolerate high temperatures,
thus reducing risk of ignition. Good thermal conductivity also assists the
onward transfer of heat due to friction, among other things, and thus reduces

the accumulation of heat in the parts of the rope. The composite matrix m, into
which the individual fibers f are distributed as evenly as possible, is most
preferably of epoxy resin, which has good adhesiveness to the reinforcements
and which is strong to behave advantageously with carbon fiber. Alternatively,
e.g. polyester or vinyl ester can be used. Alternatively some other materials
could be used. Figure 4 presents a partial cross-section of the surface
structure of the load bearing member 8, 8',8",8'" as viewed in the length
direction of the rope, presented inside the circle in the figure, according to
which cross-section the reinforcing fibers f of the load bearing members 8,
8',8",8"' are preferably organized in the polymer matrix m. Figure 5 presents
how the individual reinforcing fibers f are essentially evenly distributed in the
polymer matrix m, which surrounds the fibers and which is fixed to the fibers f.
The polymer matrix m fills the areas between individual reinforcing fibers f and
binds essentially all the reinforcing fibers f that are inside the matrix m to each
other as a uniform solid substance. In this case abrasive movement between
the reinforcing fibers f and abrasive movement between the reinforcing fibers f
and the matrix m are essentially prevented. A chemical bond exists between,
preferably all, the individual reinforcing fibers f and the matrix m, one
advantage of which is uniformity of the structure, among other things. To
strengthen the chemical bond, there can be, but not necessarily, a coating (not
presented) of the actual fibers between the reinforcing fibers and the polymer
matrix m. The polymer matrix m is of the kind described elsewhere in this
application and can thus comprise additives for fine-tuning the properties of the
matrix as an addition to the base polymer. The polymer matrix m is preferably
of a hard non-elastomer. The reinforcing fibers f being in the polymer matrix
means here that in the invention the individual reinforcing fibers are bound to
each other with a polymer matrix m e.g. in the manufacturing phase by
immersing them together in the molten material of the polymer matrix. In this
case the gaps of individual reinforcing fibers bound to each other with the
polymer matrix comprise the polymer of the matrix. In this way a great number
of reinforcing fibers bound to each other in the length direction of the rope are
distributed in the polymer matrix. The reinforcing fibers are preferably

distributed essentially evenly in the polymer matrix such that the load bearing
member is as homogeneous as possible when viewed in the direction of the
cross-section of the rope. In other words, the fiber density in the cross-section
of the load bearing member does not therefore vary greatly. The reinforcing
fibers f together with the matrix m form a uniform load bearing member, inside
which abrasive relative movement does not occur when the rope is bent. The
individual reinforcing fibers of the load bearing member 8, 8',8",8'" are mainly
surrounded with polymer matrix m, but fiber-fiber contacts can occur in places
because controlling the position of the fibers in relation to each other in their
simultaneous impregnation with polymer is difficult, and on the other hand,
perfect elimination of random fiber-fiber contacts is not necessary from the
viewpoint of the functioning of the invention. If, however, it is desired to reduce
their random occurrence, the individual reinforcing fibers f can be pre-coated
such that a polymer coating is around them already before the binding of
individual reinforcing fibers to each other. In the invention the individual
reinforcing fibers of the load bearing member can comprise material of the
polymer matrix around them such that the polymer matrix m is immediately
against the reinforcing fiber but alternatively a thin coating, e.g. a primer
arranged on the surface of the reinforcing fiber in the manufacturing phase to
improve chemical adhesion to the matrix m material, can be in between.
Individual reinforcing fibers are distributed evenly in the load bearing member
8, 8',8",8'" such that the gaps of individual reinforcing fibers f are filled with the
polymer of the matrix m. Most preferably the majority, preferably essentially all
of the gaps of the individual reinforcing fibers f in the load bearing member are
filled with the polymer of the matrix m. The matrix m of the load bearing
member 8, 8',8",8'" is most preferably hard in its material properties. A hard
matrix m helps to support the reinforcing fibers f, especially when the rope
bends, preventing buckling of the reinforcing fibers f of the bent rope, because
the hard material supports the fibers f. To reduce the buckling and to facilitate
a small bending radius of the rope, among other things, it is therefore preferred
that the polymer matrix m is hard, and therefore preferably something other
than an elastomer (an example of an elastomer: rubber) or something else that

behaves very elastically or gives way. The most preferred materials are epoxy
resin, polyester, phenolic plastic or vinyl ester. The polymer matrix m is
preferably so hard that its module of elasticity (E) is over 2 GPa, most
preferably over 2.5 GPa. In this case the module of elasticity (E) is preferably
in the range 2.5-10 GPa, most preferably in the range 2.5-3.5 GPa. Preferably
over 50% of the surface area of the cross-section of the load bearing member
is of the aforementioned reinforcing fiber, preferably such that 50%-80% is of
the aforementioned reinforcing fiber, more preferably such that 55%-70% is of
the aforementioned reinforcing fiber, and essentially all the remaining surface
area is of polymer matrix m. Most preferably such that approx. 60% of the
surface area is of reinforcing fiber and approx. 40% is of matrix m material
(preferably epoxy). In this way a good longitudinal strength of the rope is
achieved.
Figure 5 illustrates a method for installing an elevator rope according to a
preferred embodiment. In the method rope storage units 1,1' are provided,
which are presented elsewhere in the application. A rope 3,3',3",3'" is
unwound from each rope storage unit 1, 1' as illustrated in Figure 5, and
thereafter connected to movable elevator units 11,12, i.e. to an elevator car 11
and a counterweight 12, to suspend these. In the preferred embodiment, a first
end of the rope 3,3',3",3'" is connected to the car 11 and the second end to
the counterweight 12. In the method a plurality of ropes 3,3',3",3"' are installed
this way simultaneously. The elevator comprises a hoistway S, an elevator car
1 and a counterweight 2 installed with the method to be vertically movable in
the hoistway S. The elevator further includes a drive machine M which is
installed with the method to drive the elevator car 1 under control of an
elevator control system (not shown). During said unwinding the rope 3,3',3",3'"
is guided to pass over a drive wheel 13 of the drive machine M. The drive
machine M is in this embodiment mounted inside a machine room MR, but the
elevator could alternatively have a machine roomless configuration. The drive
wheel 13 is arranged to engages said ropes 3,3',3",3'" passing over the drive
wheel 13 and suspending the elevator car 11 and the counterweight 12. Thus,

driving force can be transmitted from the motor to the car 11 and
counterweight 12 via the drive wheel 13 and the ropes 3,3',3",3'" so as to
move the car 11 and counterweight 12. Said unwinding comprises unwinding
the rope 3,3',3",3'" by rotating the rope support body 6,6' supporting the rope
reel 2. The method comprises before said unwinding mounting the rope
storage unit rotatably (via a support shaft comprised in the support body). Also,
the method comprises before said unwinding guiding the rope 3,3',3",3"' to
pass via a rope guide G mounted stationary at proximity of the rope reel 2. The
elevator car 11 and the counterweight may be at any suitable position during
said unwinding. However, when the connecting of the rope 3,3',3",3'" to the
car is performed, preferably the car is at an upper end of the hoistway S and
the counterweight resting on its buffer at the lower end of the hoistway S so as
to fit their positions to suit the rope length.
As elsewhere explained, the rope 3,3',3",3"' is wound in a spiral form with
several rope rounds, including at least an radially outermost rope round, and
an radially innermost rope round. In said unwinding the rope is unwound round
by rope round starting from the innermost rope round. The rope reel delimit(s)
a cylindrical free central space C inside the rope reel 2, and the rope 3,3',3",3'"
wound in a spiral form has an end E extending from the inner rim of the rope
reel 2. Said unwinding comprises guiding the inner end E away from the rope
reel 2 via said free central space C. Therefrom the rope 3,3',3",3'" passes to a
at least substantially stationary mounted rope guide G, which may be in the
form of a guide aperture formed by a plastic bush for example. The free
central space (which is preferably cylindrical) inside the rope reel 2 delimited
by the inner rim of the rope reel 2 has preferably in axial direction or the reel 2
open (or at least openable) side via which the rope 3,3',3",3'" is guided away
from the rope reel 2. The rope 3,3',3",3'" wound in a spiral form further has
another end extending from the outer rim of the rope reel 2, which is unwound
from the reel 2 after ail the rest of the rope 3,3',3",3'" is already unwound from
the rope reel 2.

The rope storage unit 1, 1' is preferably fabricated with a method for fabricating
an elevator rope storage unit. In a preferred method a rope 3,3',3",3'" is
provided, which is a rod having a straight form when in rest state and
elastically bendable away from the straight form. Additionally, a support body
4,4' is provided having an inner space 5,5', and comprising one or more
support members 6,6' delimiting said inner space 5,5'. A rope reel 2 is formed
by winding the rope 3,3',3",3'" in a spiral form and positioned inside the inner
space 5,5' such that it is supported by the support body 4,4' and surrounded
radially by said one or more support members 6,6', and such that the rope
3,3',3",3'" is under substantial bending tension in said spiral form, the outer rim
of the rope reel 2 radially compressing against said one or more support
members 6,6' as an effect of said bending tension, said support
member/members thereby delimiting the radius of the rope reel 2 from
expanding, and thereby blocking the rope reel 2 from straightening.
Preferably, the rope reel 2 is positioned inside the inner space 5,5' after
completion of the forming a rope reel 2 by winding the rope 3,3',3",3'" in a
spiral form. Thus, the rope 3,3',3",3'" is moved to be positioned inside the
inner space 5,5' as a complete rope reel 2. It is preferable, that said one or
more support members 6,6' radially delimit(s) a cylindrical inner space 5,5'
having in axial direction open side, and the rope reel 2 is positioned inside the
inner space 5,5' by moving the rope reel inside the inner space (5,5') via the in
axial direction open side of the cylindrical inner space 5,5' after said forming a
rope reel 2 by winding the rope 3,3',3",3'" in a spiral form. It is preferable, that
in said forming, the rope (3,3',3",3'") is wound in a spiral form around a support
hub, and thereafter removed from the hub while prohibiting the rope reel 2 from
unwinding. For this purpose, the rope reel 2 can be tied together with a tie,
band or equivalent, enveloping the rope bundle (a loop form element passing
via the central space C and around the outer rim of the rope reel 2), which a
tie, band or equivalent, is later removed.
As presented in the disclosed embodiments, it is preferable that the support
member(s) 6,6' are in supporting contact with the outer rim of the rope reel 2

along majority of the rim of the rope reel 2. Thus, the supporting force is evenly
distributed and the rope is protected by the support member(s) 6,6'. In the
preferred embodiments presented in Figures 1 and 2, the support members
6,6' delimit a cylindrical inner space 5,5' and surround radially said rope reel 2.
The inner rim of the cylindrical inner space 5,5' is in contact with the rope reel
2 along majority of the rim of the rope reel 2, more specifically in Figure 1
along the complete rim of the rope reel 2 and in Figure 2 along more than 80 %
of the rim of the rope reel 2. However, alternatively the support members 6'
could be distributed more sparsely. It is also not necessary that they have a
curved arc form as illustrated, even though this is preferable so as to distribute
the supporting forces evenly.
Figure 6 illustrates (as an exploded view) further preferable details for the rope
storage unit 1,1',1" implemented in connection with the support body 4 of the
rope storage unit 1 of Figure 1. The support body 4 comprises a support shaft
14 via which the rope storage unit 1,1',1" can be rotatably mounted. In the
assembled state the support shaft 14 is positioned within the free central space
C inside the rope reel 2, coaxially with the rope reel 2. The support body 4
further comprises a tightening band 15 surrounding the support member(s) 6
(here a single support member 6). In this way, the structure of the support
body 4 is protected from distorting during transport for instance, as well as . In
this case, there are support rods between the band 15 and the support
member 6. The support body 4 further comprises a first axial side face plate 17
and a second axial side face plate 18 delimiting the inner space 5. One of said
axial side face plate 17,18 comprises an opening 19 leading to the inner space
5, more specifically to the central space C, when the reel 2 is inside the
support body 4. The opening 19 provides a side for the rope storage unit 1 in
axial direction of the rope reel 2, which is fully or at least partially open or
openable via which side the rope 3,3',3",3'" can be guided away from the rope
reel 2.

Figure 7 illustrates an embodiment where a second rope 10, which is similar
with the aforementioned rope 3,3',3",3'", is stored inside the aforementioned
rope reel 2. The rope storage unit 1" here comprises a second rope reel 9,
consisting of a second rope 10 wound in a spiral form the second rope 10
being a rod having a straight form when in rest state and elastically bendable
away from the straight form, thereby being self-reversible to straight form from
bent form after all bending directed to it ceases. The second rope 10 is under
substantial bending tension in said spiral form, the outer rim of the second rope
reel radially compressing against the inner rim of said first rope reel 2 (directly
or via intermediate support elements, such as an intermediate padding,
surrounding the second rope reel 9) as an effect of said bending tension. The
second rope 10 is wound in a spiral form with several rope rounds, including at
least an outermost rope round having an outer rim, and forming at least part of
the aforementioned outer rim of the second rope reel 2, radially compressing
against the inner rim of said first rope reel 2 (directly or via intermediate
support elements surrounding the second rope reel 9) as an effect of said
bending tension , as well as several inner rope rounds each having an outer
rim radially compressing, as an effect of said bending tension, against the
inner rim of the rope round next in radial direction. The inner rim of the rope
reel 2 is illustrated with a broken line in Figure 7. The second rope 10 is
preferably wound and arranged to be unwound in similar way as described for
rope reel 2.
The belt-like ropes as illustrated, have smooth surfaces. However, the ropes
could be formed to have a contoured outer surface such as polyvee shapes or
teeth, whereby each of said ropes has at least one contoured side provided
with guide ribs and guide grooves oriented in the length direction of the rope or
teeth oriented in the cross direction of the rope, said contoured side then being
fitted to pass against a circumference of the drive wheel contoured in a
matching way i.e. so that the shape of the circumference forms a counterpart
for the shapes of the ropes. This kind of matching contoured shapes are

advantageous especially for making the engagement firmer and less likely to
slip.
In this application, the term load bearing member refers to the part that is
elongated in the length direction of the rope continuing throughout all the
length thereof, and which part is able to bear without breaking a significant part
of the tensile load exerted on the rope in question in the length direction of the
rope. The tensile load can be transmitted inside the load bearing member all
the way from its one end to the other.
As described above said reinforcing fibers f are carbon fibers. However,
alternatively also other reinforcing fibers can be used. Especially, glass fibers
are found to be suitable for elevator use, their advantage being that they are
cheap and have good availability although a mediocre tensile stiffness and
weight.
The feature that the rope is a rod having a straight form when in rest state and
elastically bendable away from the straight form means at least that a 1.0
meter length of the straight rope 3,3',3",3'" straightens back when released
after a bending from straight form to a curved form, in which bending the rope
3,3',3",3'" is bent along its complete length to a curved form with a radius
within the range of 0.3 - 0.5 meter. Thereby the feature can be tested for
example by bending in this way.
The rope storage solution presented in the application suits especially well for
the particular rope as presented. However, the rope storage solution presented
suits well also for other kinds of ropes having a straight form when in rest state
and elastically bendable away from the straight form.
It is to be understood that the above description and the accompanying
Figures are only intended to illustrate the present invention. It will be apparent
to a person skilled in the art that the inventive concept can be implemented in
various ways. The invention and its embodiments are not limited to the
examples described above but may vary within the scope of the claims.

CLAIMS
1. A rope storage unit (1,1',1'), comprising
a rope reel (2), formed by a rope (3,3',3",3'") wound in a spiral form;
and
a support body (4,4') provided with an inner space (5,5') inside
which the rope reel (2) is positioned supported by the support body (4,4'),
characterized in that the rope (3,3',3",3'") is a rod having a straight
form when in rest state and elastically bendable away from the straight
form, the rope (3,3',3",3'") being under substantial bending tension in said
spiral form, and in that the support body (4,4') comprises one or more
support members (6,6') delimiting said inner space (5,5') and surrounding
radially said rope reel (4,4'), the outer rim of the rope reel (2) radially
compressing against said one or more support members (6,6') as an effect
of said bending tension.
2. A rope storage unit according to claim 1, characterized in that said
rope (3,3',3",3'") has width larger than thickness thereof in transverse
direction of the rope (3,3',3",3'"), and the rope is wound in said spiral form
by bending it around an axis extending in width-direction of the rope
(3,3',3",3'").
3. A rope storage unit according to any of the preceding claims,
characterized in that the rope (3,3',3",3'") is wound in a spiral form with
several rope rounds, including at least an outermost rope round having an
outer rim radially compressing against said one or more support members
(6,6') as an effect of said bending tension, as well as several inner rope
rounds each having an outer rim radially compressing, as an effect of said
bending tension, against the inner rim of the rope round next in radial
direction.

4. A rope storage unit according to any of the preceding claims,
characterized in that said rope comprises one or more load bearing
members (8, 8', 8", 8'") made of composite material comprising reinforcing
fibers (f) in polymer matrix (m), said reinforcing fibers preferably being
carbon fibers.
5. A rope storage unit according to any of the preceding claims,
characterized in that said load bearing member(s) is/are parallel with the
length direction of the rope.
6. A rope storage unit according to any of the preceding claims,
characterized in that said reinforcing fibers are parallel with the length
direction of the rope.
7. A rope storage unit according to any of the preceding claims,
characterized in that said one or more support members (6, 6') delimit(s)
a cylindrical inner space (5,5'), said cylindrical inner space (5,5') preferably
having in axial direction open side via which the rope reel (2) can be
brought inside the inner space (5,5') and/or via which the rope (3,3',3",3'")
can be guided away from the rope reel (2).
8. A rope storage unit according to any of the preceding claims,
characterized in that the support member(s) (6,6') are in supporting
contact with the outer rim of the rope reel (2) along at least majority of the
rim of the rope reel (2).
9. A rope storage unit according to any of the preceding claims,
characterized in that the support body (4, 4') comprises a support shaft
(14) via which the rope storage unit (1,1', 1') can be rotatably mounted.
10. A rope storage unit according to any of the preceding claims,
characterized in that the rope reel (2) delimit(s) a free central space (C)

inside the rope reel (2), and the rope (3,3',3",3'") wound in a spiral form
has an end (E) extending from the inner rim of the rope reel (2), the rope
being unwindable by guiding said end (E) away from the rope reel (2) via
said free central space (C).
11. A rope storage unit according to any of the preceding claims,
characterized in that the rope (3,3',3",3'") is wound in a spiral form with
several rope rounds, including at least a radially outermost rope round, and
a radially innermost rope round, the rope (3,3',3",3'") being unwindable
rope round by rope round starting from the innermost rope round.
12. A rope storage unit according to any of the preceding claims,
characterized in that the inner rim of the rope reel (2) delimit(s) a free
central space (C) inside the rope reel, the central space (C) having in axial
direction open side via which the rope (3,3',3",3'") can be guided away
from the rope reel (2).
13. A rope storage unit according to any of the preceding claims,
characterized in that the rope (3,3',3",3'") is wound in a spiral form with
several rope rounds, intermediate rope rounds between the innermost and
outermost rope rounds, the intermediate rounds radially compressing
against the next outer round as an effect of said bending tension.
14. A method for installing an elevator rope, comprising the steps of
providing a rope storage unit according (1,1',1") to any one of
the preceding claims; and
unwinding the rope (3,3',3",3'") from the rope storage unit
(1,1',1");and
connecting the rope (3,3',3",3'") to one or more movable elevator units
(11,12), said units (11,12), including at least an elevator car (11) and
preferably also a counterweight (12).

15. A method according to any of the preceding claims, characterized
in that the rope (3,3',3",3'") is wound in a spiral form with several rope
rounds, including at least an radially outermost rope round, and an radially
innermost rope round, and in said unwinding the rope is unwound rope
round by rope round starting from the innermost rope round.
16. A method according to any of the preceding claims, characterized
in that the rope reel (2,9) delimit(s) a free central space (C) inside the rope
reel (2), and the rope (3,3',3",3'") wound in a spiral form has an end
extending from the inner rim of the rope reel (2,9), and said unwinding
comprises guiding said end (E) away from the rope reel (2,9) via said free
central space (C).
17. A method according to any of the preceding claims, characterized
in that the inner rim of the rope reel (2,9) delimit(s) a free central space (C)
inside the rope reel (2,9), the central space (C) having in axial direction
open side via which the rope (3,3',3",3'") is guided away from the rope reel
(2,9).
18. A method for fabricating a rope storage unit (1,1',1"), comprising the
steps of
providing a rope (3,3',3",3'"), which is a rod having a straight form
when in rest state and elastically bendable away from the straight form;
providing a support body (4,4') provided with an inner space (5,5'),
the support body (4,4') comprising one or more support members (6,6')
delimiting said inner space (5,5'),
forming a rope reel (2) by winding the rope (3,3',3",3'") in a spiral
form;
positioning the rope (3,3',3",3'") i.nside the inner space (5,5') such
that it is supported by the support body (4,4') and surrounded radially by
said one or more support members (6,6'), and such that the rope
(3,3',3",3'") is under substantial bending tension in said spiral form, the

outer rim of the rope reel (2) radially compressing against said one or more
support members (6,6') as an effect of said bending tension.

ABSTRACT

The invention relates to a rope storage unit (1), comprising
a rope reel (2), formed by a rope (3,3,,3",3'") wound in a
spiral form; and a support body (4) provided with an inner
space (5) inside which the rope reel (2) is positioned
supported by the support body (4). The rope (3,3',3",3'") is
a rod having a straight form when in rest state and
elastically bendable away from the straight form, the rope
(3,3',3",3'") being under substantial bending tension in
said spiral form, and in that the support body (4)
comprises one or more support members (6) delimiting
said inner space (5) and surrounding radially said rope
reel (4), the outer rim of the rope reel (2) radially
compressing against said one or more support members
(6) as an effect of said bending tension. The invention also
relates to a method for installing an elevator rope
implementing said rope storage unit, as wella as to a
method for fabricating said rope storage unit.