TRAVELATOR OR MOVING RAMP AND METHOD FOR SERVICING A TRAVELATOR OR MOVING RAMP

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a travelator or moving ramp as defined in the preamble of claim 1. In addition, the present invention relates to a method as defined in the preambles of claim 14 and 15.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] A prior-art travelator or moving ramp, wherein people are transported on a conveyor horizontally or at an angle upwards/downwards. The conveyor is supported on a frame, which for its part is supported on a fixed structure, such as the floor. These types of flat travelators of a low construction mounted on the floor are known from publications WO 2005/042391 and WO 2005/042392. If this type of travelator were constructed using the same principle as conventional travelators, it would be an integrated structural assembly, in which the conveyor would be supported in the longitudinal direction along its full length on an integral frame, which is an indivisible structure of the length of the whole travelator or moving ramp. When the travelator is near a wall or when there are two travelators side by side, the accessibility of the end parts from the side is restricted, which is problematic, because the serviceable parts and devices in the end parts cannot be serviced easily and safely. Furthermore the travelator must be stopped and access to it must be prevented for the full duration of the servicing. One problem is the long standstill time needed for servicing, during which the travelator cannot be used.

[0003] US 6,685,002 discloses an escalator wh9ich is modernized under use of modular components. US 4,232,776 show a low built travelator necessitating a pit for receiving structural part of the conveyor. US 5,044,485 discloses a travelator having a number of small conveyor modules which may form a conveyor of desired length.

PURPOSE OF THE INVENTION

[0004] The purpose of the invention is to eliminate the aforementioned drawbacks.

[0005] A particular purpose of the invention is to disclose a travelator or moving ramp, which enables servicing with as short a standstill time as possible.

[0006] Another purpose of the invention is to disclose a travelator or moving ramp, which can be serviced easily and safely.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] The travelator or moving ramp according to the invention is characterized by what is disclosed in claim 1. Furthermore the method according to the invention is characterized by what is disclosed in claims 14 or 15.

[0008] The travelator according to the invention is modular, such that the travelator comprises a center module essentially fixed in its position, which comprises a main part the length of the conveyor, and at least one end module detachably connected to the center module, which comprises a section of the conveyor shorter than the main part and the serviceable objects.

[0009] In the method for servicing the travelator or moving ramp according to the invention the travelator or moving ramp is stopped and closed to traffic. The end module requiring servicing is detached from the center module. A new or serviced end module is connected to the center module. The end module requiring servicing is transported away from the travelator or moving ramp for servicing at the servicing site. Finally the travelator or moving ramp is started and opened to traffic. Alternatively the method can be implemented such that the detached end module is serviced on site and replaced into position when serviced.

[0010] An advantage of the invention is that owing to its modular structure the travelator or moving ramp is easy and quick to service as fast as possible so that the standstill time is as short as possible. The standstill of the travelator or moving ramp can be in the range of a few hours in duration. The end module needing servicing is simply detached from the travelator or moving ramp and replaced with a corresponding new or serviced end module. The end module needing servicing is transported to the servicing site, where it can be serviced to operable condition in ergonomically good and safe conditions.

[0011] In a preferred structure detachment of the end module for servicing requires only removal of the handrail belt of the handrail from the end module, the disconnection of the traction elements (drive chains) from their connection points and the freeing of the connection means fixing the end module in its position. Freeing the connection means can mean e.g. opening the screws or bolts fixing the end module in its position.

[0012] In one embodiment of the travelator or moving ramp the travelator or moving ramp comprises two end modules, one at each end, which end modules are modularly detachable from and connectable to the center module.

[0013] In the travelator or moving ramp of the invention the drive machinery of the conveyor, i.e. the parts most probably needing regular servicing, is arranged in the end module.

[0014] In one embodiment of the travelator or moving ramp the travelator or moving ramp comprises an entry end and an exit end. In the conveyor is an upper transport section for transporting passengers from the entry end to the exit end and a lower return section for returning the conveyor from the exit end to the entry end. The end modules comprise a first end module, which comprises a drive wheel for driving the traction element of the conveyor, a power unit for rotating the drive wheel, and a first transitional zone, in which the transporting direction of the conveyor changes between the transport section and the return section. The end modules further comprise a second end module, which comprises a diverting wheel for diverting the traction element, a tightening device for moving the diverting wheel in relation to the drive wheel to tighten the traction element, and a second transitional zone, in which the transporting direction of the conveyor changes between the return section and the transport section.

[0015] In one embodiment of the travelator or moving ramp the travelator or moving ramp comprises a handrail, which comprises a moving handrail belt formed as an endless loop, in which is an upper support section, on which the passenger can lean his/her arm, a lower return section and end curve sections, in which the return section bends to become the support section and vice versa at the entry end and the exit end of the travelator or moving ramp. The travelator or moving ramp further comprises a handrail frame, which comprises an upper guide for supporting and guiding the support section and curved diverting guides at the entry end and the exit end of the travelator or moving ramp for supporting and guiding the end curve sections. The handrail frame is formed so as to be modular such that the center module of the travelator or moving ramp comprises the main part of the handrail frame, and the end module comprises a part of the handrail frame that is smaller than the main part with the end module including the diverting guide and part of the upper guide.

[0016] In one embodiment of the travelator or moving ramp the first end module comprises a power unit for moving the handrail belt. The power unit can preferably be the same as that which drives the conveyor.

[0017] In one embodiment of the travelator or moving ramp the first end module comprises transmission elements for transmitting the driving force from the power unit for driving the conveyor and the handrail belt.

[0018] According to the inventivetravelator or moving ramp the end module comprises means for moving the end module.

[0019] In one embodiment of the travelator or moving ramp the means for moving the end module comprise gripping elements, which are fitted for gripping with a moving device.

[0020] In one embodiment of the travelator or moving ramp the gripping elements are fitted so that they can be gripped with the lifting prongs of a fork-lift van, a fork-lift truck or similar for lifting and moving the end module.

[0021] In one embodiment of the travelator or moving ramp the means for moving the end module comprise wheels.

[0022] In one embodiment of the travelator or moving ramp the end module comprises a hinged element, which is hinged with a turning joint to the end module and to which hinged element a wheel is mounted on a bearing at a distance from the joint, in which case the hinged element can be turned between the storage position and the moving position, in which storage position the end module is in contact with the fixed base and in which moving position the end module is lifted off the base to be supported by the wheel for moving the end module.

[0023] In one embodiment of the travelator or moving ramp the conveyor comprises two elongated box-type frame halves, which are the first frame half and the second frame half, which are supported at a distance from each other with transverse braces so as to be parallel with each other. The main part of the frame halves is in the center module and a section smaller than the main part is in the end modules. Each frame half comprises a part that is stationary in normal use, and a part that moves in relation to this for the purpose of tightening the traction elements. The conveyor further comprises a first traction element, which is formed as an endless loop and is arranged inside the first frame half. The conveyor further comprises a second traction element, which is formed as an endless loop and is arranged inside the second frame half. The conveyor further comprises a plurality of transport surfaces, such as pallets, which are arranged consecutively and fixed to the first traction element and to the second traction element. The conveyor further comprises a first drive wheel, which is mounted on a bearing to the stationary part in the first end module and over which the first traction element is led. The conveyor further comprises a first diverting wheel, which is mounted on a bearing to the moving part in the second end module and over which the first traction element is led. The conveyor further comprises a second drive wheel, which is mounted on a bearing to the stationary part in the first end module and over which the second traction element is led. The conveyor further comprises a second diverting wheel, which is mounted on a bearing to the moving part in the second end module and over which the second traction element is led. The conveyor further comprises a first tightening device, which is in the second end module in the first frame half and arranged to affect the stationary part, and the relationship between it and the moving part in order to flexibly force the first drive wheel and the first diverting wheel away from each other to tighten the first traction element with the first tightening movement in order to compensate the elongation of the first traction element. The conveyor further comprises a second tightening device, which is in the second end module in the second frame half and arranged to affect the stationary part, and the relationship between it and the moving part in order to flexibly force the second drive wheel and the second diverting wheel away from each other to tighten the second traction element with the second tightening movement in order to compensate the elongation of the second traction element. Additionally the conveyor comprises mechanical transmission elements for keeping the stroke lengths of the first and second tightening movement between the first tightening device and the second tightening device equal.

[0024] In one embodiment of the travelator or moving ramp the conveyor comprises first synchronization means, which are arranged in the first end module to synchronize the first drive wheel and the second drive wheel with each other.

[0025] In one embodiment of the travelator or moving ramp the conveyor comprises second synchronization means, which are arranged in the second end module to synchronize the first diverting wheel and the second diverting wheel with each other.

[0026] The inventive travelator or moving ramp is a travelator or moving ramp of low structure, installed on a fixed base, such as on the floor or other support.

LIST OF FIGURES

[0027] In the following, the invention will be described in detail by the aid of a few examples of its embodiments with reference to the attached drawings, wherein

Fig. 1 presents a diagrammatic side view of a first embodiment of a modular travelator according to the invention,

Fig. 2 presents the travelator according to Fig. 1 with the end modules detached from the center module,

Figs. 3 and 4 present a diagrammatic side view of part of a second embodiment of a modular travelator according to the invention with the end module connected to the center module (Fig. 3) and with the end module detached from the center module (Fig. 4),

Fig. 5 is an axonometrically presented diagram of an oblique top view of a third embodiment of the travelator according to the invention, and

Fig. 6 presents a VI-VI cross-section of the travelator according to Fig. 5.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0028] The travelator in Fig. 1 is a travelator, which is of low construction, installed on a fixed base, such as on the floor or other support, which means that a recess for the machineries of the travelator does not need to be made in the fixed base, such as the floor. In the following description of the embodiment the invention is described in connection with a horizontal travelator, but it is obvious that the corresponding principles of the invention can also be applied to moving ramps.

[0029] The travelator comprises a conveyor 1, which can be e.g. a pallet conveyor, as in the figures, or it can also be a belt conveyor in some other embodiment.
The frame 35, 26 of the conveyor rests throughout its whole length on the floor base.

[0030] As seen in Figs. 1 and 2, the travelator is modular such that the travelator comprises a center module 2 fixed in its essentially stationary position, which comprises a main part of the length of the conveyor 1, and two end modules 3, 4 that are modularly and detachably connected to the center module 2, which are the first end module 3 and the second end module 4. Both end modules contain a section shorter than the main part of the conveyor 1 and various serviceable objects, such as the drive machinery of the conveyor.

[0031] With reference to Figs. 1 and 5 the first end module 3 comprises drive wheels 9, 10 for driving the traction elements 11, 12 that move the transport surfaces 39 of the conveyor 1, a power unit 13, which rotates the drive wheels 9, 10. In addition the first end module 3 contains a first transitional zone 14, in which the transporting direction of the conveyor 1 changes between the upper transport section 7 and the lower return section 8, see also Fig. 6, i.e. in which the transport surfaces 39 move between the upper transport section and the lower return section.

[0032] The second end module 4 comprises diverting wheels 15, 16 for diverting the traction elements 11, 12, tightening devices 17, 18 for moving the diverting wheels 15, 16 in relation to the drive wheels 9, 10 for tightening the traction elements 11, 12, and a second transitional zone 19, in which the transporting direction of the conveyor changes between the return section 8 and the transport section 7.

[0033] With reference to Figs. 1, 2, 5 and 6 the travelator comprises two handrails 20, which are on both sides of the conveyor 1. The handrail 20 contains a moving handrail belt 21 formed as an endless link. The handrail belt contains an upper support section 22, on which the passenger can lean his/her arm and a lower return section 23. In the end curve sections 24 the return section 23 bends to become the support section 22 and vice versa at the entry end 5 and the exit end 6 of the travelator. The handrail 20 contains a handrail frame 25 to support and guide the handrail belt 21. The handrail frame 25 comprises an upper guide 26 to support and guide the upper support section 22 of the handrail belt 21. At the entry end and the exit end of the travelator are curved diverting guides 27 for supporting and guiding the end curve sections 24 of the handrail belt. The handrail frame 25 is formed to be modular such that the center module 2 of the travelator comprises the main part of the handrail frame 25 and the end modules 3, 4 comprise a part of the handrail frame 25 that is smaller than the main part, thus both the end modules 3, 4 contain part of the upper guide 26 in addition to the diverting guide 27. With reference to Fig. 5 the handrail belt 21 is moved by the same power unit 13 arranged for the first end module 3, which moves the conveyor 1. The first end module 3 therefore contains the transmission elements 28 for transmitting driving force from the power unit 13 for driving the conveyor 1 and the handrail belt 21.

[0034] As seen in Figs. 1 - 4, the end modules 3, 4 preferably comprise means, with the aid of which the end module can easily be moved. The example end modules 3, 4 of Fig. 1 contain gripping elements 29, which are fitted for gripping with a moving device 30. Fig. 2 shows a fork-lift van as the moving device 30, in which are lifting prongs 31. The gripping elements 29 of the end module 3, 4 are fitted so that they can be gripped with the lifting prongs 30 in order to lift and move the end module 3, 4.

[0035] Figs. 3 and 4 show a second method of moving the end modules. In this example the end module 3 is provided with wheels 32, which can be put into action according to need.
The end module 3 comprises a hinged element 33, which is hinged to the end module 3 with a joint 34 allowing turning. The wheel 32 is mounted on a bearing to the hinged element 33 at a distance from the joint 34, so that the hinged element 32 can be turned between the storage position I of Fig. 3 and the moving position II of Fig. 4. In the storage position I of Fig. 3 the end module 3 is in contact with the fixed base. In the moving position II the end module 3 is lifted off the base to be supported by the wheel 32 for moving the end module. Thus a service person can move the end module by pushing or pulling.

[0036] If either of the end modules 3 and/or 4 needs servicing and the servicing procedure would take a lot of time if performed on site, for servicing the travelator or moving ramp according to the method it is stopped and closed to traffic. The end module 3 or 4 requiring servicing is detached from the center module 2. A new or serviced end module 3' and/or 4' is connected to the center module 2. The end module 3 and/or 4 requiring servicing is transported away from the travelator or moving ramp for servicing at the servicing site. Finally the travelator or moving ramp is started up and re-opened to traffic.

[0037] With further reference to Figs. 1, 5 and 6 the conveyor 1 comprises two elongated box-type frame halves 35, 36, which are the first frame half 35 and the second frame half 36. The frame halves 35 and 36 are supported at a distance from each other with transverse braces 100 so as to be parallel with each other. Preferably the frame halves 35 and 36 are profiled beams, which can be of metal, preferably formed by the extrusion of light metal such as aluminum. The main part of the frame halves is in center module 2 and a section that is smaller than the main part is in the end modules 3, 4. Both frame halves 35, 36 comprise a part 37 that is stationary in normal use, and a part 38 that moves in relation to this for the purpose of tightening the traction elements 11, 12.

[0038] The first traction element 11 is formed as an endless link and is arranged inside the first frame half 35.

[0039] The second traction element 12 is correspondingly formed as an endless link and is arranged inside the second frame half 36. The first and second traction elements are preferably sprocket chains.

[0040] A plurality of transport surfaces 39, such as palettes, is arranged in sequence and fixed on one side to the first traction element 11 and on the other side to the second traction element 12 forming a so-called palette conveyor.

[0041] The first drive wheel 9 is mounted on a bearing to the stationary part 37 in the first end module 3. The first traction element 11 is disposed to pass over the first drive wheel 9. The first diverting wheel 15 is mounted on a bearing to the moving part 38 in the second end module 4. The first traction element 11 is disposed to pass over the first diverting wheel 15.

[0042] The second drive wheel 10 is mounted on a bearing to the stationary part 37 in the first end module 3. The second traction element 12 is disposed to pass over the second diverting wheel 10. The second diverting wheel 16 is mounted on a bearing to the moving part 38 in the second end module 4. The second traction element 12 is disposed to pass over the second diverting wheel 16.

[0043] The first tightening device 17 is in the second end module 4 in the first frame half 35 and arranged to affect the stationary part 37 and the relationship between it and the moving part 38 in order to flexibly force the first drive wheel 9 and the first diverting wheel 15 away from each other to tighten the first traction element 11 with the first tightening movement in order to compensate the elongation of the first traction element.

[0044] The second tightening device 18 is in the second end module 4 in the second frame half 36 and arranged to affect the stationary part 37 and the relationship between it and the moving part 38 in order to flexibly force the second drive wheel 10 and the second diverting wheel 16 away from each other to tighten the second traction element 12 with the second tightening movement in order to compensate the elongation of the second traction element.

[0045] The mechanical transmission elements 40 are arranged to affect the first and second tightening movement between the first tightening device 17 and the second tightening device 18 in order to keep the stroke lengths equal.

[0046] The mechanical transmission elements 40 are presented as a schematic diagram in Fig. 5, from which it can be seen that the first tightening device 17 comprises a first gear wheel 43. The first tensioner frame 44 is fixed to the stationary part 37. The first tensioner frame 44 comprises a first gearing 45, which extends rectilinearly in the longitudinal direction of the conveyor forming a toothed rack. The first gearing 45 is in tooth contact with the first gear wheel 43 on its one side, i.e. at the bottom in the example of Fig. 5. The second tensioner frame 46 is fixed to the moving part 38. The second tensioner frame 46 comprises a second gearing 47, which is identical with the first gearing 45. The second gearing 47 is in tooth contact with the first gear wheel 43 on the opposite side in relation to the first gearing 45 i.e. at the top in Fig. 5. The effect of the first force element 48 is exerted between the first tensioner frame 44 and the second tensioner frame 46 attempting to move them apart from each other.

[0047] The second tightening device 18 is similar to the first tightening device 17. The second tightening device 18 comprises a second gear wheel 49, the toothing of which is identical with relation to the first gear wheel 43. The third tensioner frame 50 is fixed to the stationary part 37. The third tensioner frame 50 comprises a third gearing 51, which is identical to the first and second gearings 45, 47 and is in tooth contact with the second gear wheel 49 on its one side, at the bottom in Fig. 5. The fourth tensioner frame 52 is fixed to the moving part 38. The fourth tensioner frame 52 comprises a fourth gearing 53, which is identical with the other gearings 45, 47 and 51. The fourth gearing 53 is in tooth contact with the second gear wheel 49 on the opposite side in relation to the third gearing 51, i.e. at the top in Fig. 5.

[0048] The effect of the second force element 54 is exerted between the third tensioner frame 50 and the fourth tensioner frame 52 attempting to move them apart from each other.

[0049] The first force element 48 and the second force element 54 can be e.g. gas springs, coil springs or active actuating elements, such as cylinders actuated by a pressurized agent.

[0050] The first gear wheel 43 and the second gear wheel 49 are fixed to the same shaft 55, which can freely rotate. The shaft 55, the first gear wheel 43, the second gear wheel 49, the first gearing 45, the second gearing 47, the third gearing 51 and the fourth gearing 53 form the mechanical transmission elements 40, which keep the tightening movements of the tightening devices 17 and 18 equal.

[0051] Fig. 5 further shows the first synchronization means 41, which are arranged in the first end module 3 to synchronize the first drive wheel 9 and the second drive wheel 10 with each other. Correspondingly the second synchronization means 42, which are arranged in the second end module 4 to synchronize the first diverting wheel 15 and the second diverting wheel 16 with each other.

[0052] The invention is not limited solely to the embodiments described above, but instead many variations are possible within the scope of the inventive concept defined by the claims below. Within the scope of the inventive concept the attributes of different embodiments and applications can be used in conjunction with or replace the attributes of another embodiment or application.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

[0053] 

conveyor (1)

center module (2)

first end module (3)

second end module (4)

entry end (5)

exit end (6)

upper transport section (7)

lower transport section (8)

first drive wheel (9)

second drive wheel (10)

first traction element (11)

second traction element (12)

power unit (13)

first transitional zone (14)

first diverting wheel (15)

second diverting wheel (16)

first tightening device (17)

second tightening device (18)

second transitional zone (19)

handrail (20)

handrail belt (21)

upper support section (22)

lower return section (23)

end curve section (24)

handrail frame (25)

upper guide (26)

diverting guide (27)

transmission elements (28)

gripping elements (29)

moving device (30)

lifting prongs (31)

wheel (32)

hinged element (33)

joint (34)

storage position (I)

moving position (II)

first frame half (35)

second frame half (36)

stationary part (37)

moving part (38)

transport surface (39)

mechanical transmission elements(40)

first synchronization means (41)

second synchronization means (42)

transverse brace (100)

first gear wheel (43)

first tensioner frame (44)

first gearing (45)

second tensioner frame (46)

second gearing (47)

first force element (48)

second gear wheel (49)

third tensioner frame (50)

third gearing (51)

fourth tensioner frame (52)

fourth gearing (53)

second force element (54)

shaft (55)

Claims

1. Travelator, in which is a conveyor (1), which travelator is a travelator of low structure, suitable for being installed on a fixed base, which fixed base is the floor wherein a recess for the machineries of the travelator does not need to be made in the floor, wherein the travelator is modular such that the travelator comprises a center module (2) essentially fixed in its position, which comprises a main part of the length of the conveyor (1), and at least one end module (3, 4) detachably connected to the center module (2), which comprises a section of the conveyor shorter than the main part as well as serviceable objects, characterized in that said module (3,4) includes the drive machinery (9, 10, 13) of the conveyor which comprises the power unit (13) for moving the handrail belt and driving the conveyor, and in that the end module (3, 4) comprises means for moving the end module such that said end module (3,4) can be detachably connected to the center module (2) by moving said end module (3,4) on that floor.

2. Travelator according to claim 1, characterized in that travelator or moving ramp comprises two end modules (3, 4), which are modularly detachable from and connectable to the center module (2).

3. Travelator according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that travelator or moving ramp comprises an entry end (5) and an exit end (6); in that the conveyor (1) contains an upper transport section (7) for transporting passengers from the entry end to the exit end and a lower return section (8) for returning the conveyor from the exit end to the entry end; and in that the end modules (3, 4) comprise

- a first end module (3), which comprises a drive wheel (9, 10) for driving the traction element (11, 12) of the conveyor (1), a power unit (13) for rotating the drive wheel (9, 10), and a first transitional zone (14), in which the transporting direction of the conveyor changes between the transport section (7) and the return section (8), and

- a second end module (4), which comprises a diverting wheel (15, 16) for diverting the traction element (11, 12), a tightening device (17, 18) for moving the diverting wheel (15, 16) in relation to the drive wheel (9, 10) to tighten the traction element (11, 12), and a second transitional zone (19), in which the transporting direction of the conveyor changes between the return section (8) and the transport section (7).

4. Travelator according to claim 3, characterized in that travelator or moving ramp comprises a handrail (20), which comprises

- a moving handrail belt (21) formed as an endless link, in which is an upper support section (22), on which the passenger can lean his/her arm, a lower return section (23) and end curve sections (24), in which the return section (23) bends to become the support section (22) and vice versa at the entry end (5) and the exit end (6) of the travelator or moving ramp, and

- a handrail frame (25), which comprises an upper guide (26) for supporting and guiding the upper support section (22) of the handrail belt and curved diverting guides (27) for supporting and guiding the end curve sections (24) of the handrail belt at the entry end and the exit end of the travelator or moving ramp, and which handrail frame (25) is formed to be modular such that the center module (2) of the travelator or moving ramp comprises the main part of the handrail frame (25), and the end module (3, 4) comprises a part of the handrail frame (25) that is smaller than the main part with the end module including the diverting guide (27) and part of the upper guide (26).

5. Travelator according to claim 4, characterized in that the first end module (3) comprises a power unit (13) for moving the handrail belt (21).

6. Travelator according to claim 5, characterized in that the first end module (3) comprises traction elements (28) for transmitting the driving force from the power unit (13) for driving the conveyor (1) and the handrail belt (21).

7. Travelator according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the means for moving the end module (3, 4) comprise gripping elements (29), which are fitted for gripping with a moving device (30).

8. Travelator according to claim 7, characterized in that when the moving device (30) is a fork-lift van, a fork-lift truck or similar, which has lifting prongs (31), the gripping elements (29) of the end module (3, 4) are fitted so that they can be gripped with lifting prongs (30) for lifting and moving the end module.

9. Travelator according to claim 7, characterized in that the means for moving the end module (3, 4) comprise wheels (32).

10. Travelator according to claim 9, characterized in that the end module (3, 4) comprises a hinged element (33), which is hinged with a turning joint (34) to the end module (3, 4) and to which hinged element (33) a wheel (32) is mounted on a bearing at a distance from the joint (34), in which case the hinged element (33) can be turned between the storage position (I) and the moving position (II), in which storage position (I) the end module (3, 4) is in contact with the fixed base and in which moving position (II) the end module is lifted off the base to be supported by the wheel (32) for moving the end module.

11. Travelator according to any of claims 1 - 10, characterized in that the conveyor (1) comprises

- two elongated box-type frame halves (35, 36), which are the first frame half (35) and the second frame half (36), which are supported at a distance from each other with transverse braces (100) so as to be parallel with each other, of which frame halves the main part is in the center module (2) and the section smaller than the main part is in the end modules(3, 4), and each frame half (35, 36) comprises a part (37) that is stationary in normal use, and a part (38) that moves in relation to this for the purpose of tightening the traction elements,

- a first traction element (11), which is formed as an endless link and is arranged inside the first frame half (35),

- a second traction element (12), which is formed as an endless link and is arranged inside the second frame half (36),

- a plurality of transport surfaces (39), such as palettes, which are arranged in sequence and fixed to the first traction element (11) and to the second traction element (12),

- a first drive wheel (9), which is mounted on a bearing to the stationary part (37) in the first end module (3) and over which the first traction element (11) is led,

- a first diverting wheel (15), which is mounted on a bearing to the moving part (38) in the second end module (4) and over which the first traction element (11) is led,

- a second drive wheel (10), which is mounted on a bearing to the stationary part (37) in the first end module (3) and over which the second traction element (12) is led,

- a second diverting wheel (16), which is mounted on a bearing to the moving part (38) in the second end module (4) and over which the second traction element (12) is led,

- a first tightening device (17), which is in the second end module (4) in the first frame half (35) and arranged to affect the stationary part (37), and the relationship between it and the moving part (38) in order to flexibly force the first drive wheel (9) and the first diverting wheel (15) away from each other to tighten the first traction element (11) with the first tightening movement in order to compensate the elongation of the first traction element

- a second tightening device (18), which is in the second end module (4) in the second frame half (36) and arranged to affect the stationary part (37), and the relationship between it and the moving part (38) in order to flexibly force the second drive wheel (10) and the second diverting wheel (16) away from each other to tighten the second traction element (12) with the second tightening movement in order to compensate the elongation of the second traction element, and

- mechanical transmission elements (40) for keeping the stroke lengths of the first and second tightening movement between the first tightening device (17) and the second tightening device (18) equal.

12. Travelator according to claim 11, characterized in that the conveyor (1) comprises first synchronization means (41), which are arranged in the first end module (3) to synchronize the first drive wheel (9) and the second drive wheel (10) with each other.

13. Travelator according to any of claims 1 - 12, characterized in that the conveyor (1) comprises second synchronization means (42), which are arranged in the second end module (4) to synchronize the first diverting wheel (15) and the second diverting wheel (16) with each other.

14. Method for servicing a travelator according to any of claims 1 - 13, characterized in that

- the travelator is stopped and closed to traffic,

- the end module (3, 4) requiring servicing is detached from the center module (2),

- a new or serviced end module (3', 4') is connected to the center module (2),

- the end module (3, 4) requiring servicing is transported away from the travelator for servicing at the servicing site,

- the travelator is started and opened to traffic.

15. Method for servicing a travelator to any of claims 1 - 13, characterized in that

- the travelator is stopped and closed to traffic,

- the end module (3, 4) requiring servicing is detached from the center module (2),

- the end module (3, 4) is serviced at a separate site away from the travelator,

- the serviced end module (3, 4) is connected to the center module (2),

- the travelator is started and opened to traffic.

Ansprüche

1. Fahrsteig, in welchem sich ein Förderer (1) befindet, welcher Fahrsteig ein Fahrsteig geringer Bauhöhe ist, geeignet zur Montage auf einer festen Basis, welche Basis der Boden ist, bei dem keine Ausnehmung für die Maschinen des Fahrsteigs im Boden gemacht werden muss, wobei der Fahrsteig modular ist, so dass der Fahrsteig ein zentrales Modul (2) enthält, das im Wesentlichen in seiner Position festgelegt ist, welches einen Hauptteil der Länge des Förderers (1) enthält, und wenigstens ein Endmodul (3, 4), das abnehmbar mit dem zentralen Modul (2) verbunden ist, welches einen Abschnitt des Förderers aufweist, der kürzer ist als der Hauptteil, als auch zu wartende Komponenten, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das Endmodul (3, 4) die Antriebsmaschine (9, 10, 13) des Förderers enthält, welche die Antriebseinheit (13) zum Bewegen des Handlaufbandes und zum Antreiben des Förderers enthält, und dass das Endmodul (3, 4) Mittel zum Bewegen des Endmoduls enthält derart, dass das Endmodul (3, 4) abnehmbar mit dem zentralen Modul (2) verbunden werden kann mittels Bewegen des Endmoduls (3,4) auf dem Boden.

2. Fahrsteig nach Anspruch 1, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der Fahrsteig oder die sich bewegende Rampe zwei Endmodule (3, 4) enthält, die modular von dem zentralen Modul (2) abnehmbar und mit diesem verbindbar sind.

3. Fahrsteig nach Anspruch 1 oder 2, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der Fahrsteig oder die sich bewegende Rampe ein Eingangsende (5) und ein Ausgangsende (6) aufweist; dass der Förderer (1) einen oberen Transportabschnitt (7) zum Transportieren von Passagieren von dem Eingangsende zum Ausgangsende hat, und einen unteren Rückführabschnitt (8), um den Förderer von dem Ausgangsende zum Eingangsende zurückzuführen; und dass die Endmodule (3, 4) folgende Merkmale aufweisen:

- ein erstes Endmodul (3), welches ein Antriebsrad (9, 10) zum Antreiben des Traktionselements (11, 12) des Förderers (1) enthält, eine Antriebseinheit (13) zum Rotieren des Antriebsrades (9, 10), und eine erste Übergangszone (14), in welcher die Transportrichtung des Förderers zwischen dem Transportabschnitt (7) und dem Rückführabschnitt (8) wechselt, und

- ein zweites Endmodul (4), welches ein Umlenkrad (15,16) zum Umlenken des Traktionselements (11,12) enthält, eine Spanneinrichtung (17, 18) zum Bewegen des Umlenkrades (15, 16) relativ zu dem Antriebsrad (9, 10), um das Traktionselement (11,12) zu spannen, und eine zweite Übergangzone (19), in welcher die Transportrichtung des Förderers zwischen dem Rückführabschnitt (8) und dem Transportabschnitt (7) wechselt.

4. Fahrsteig nach Anspruch 3, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der Fahrsteig oder die sich bewegende Rampe einen Handlauf (20) enthält, welcher folgende Merkmale umfasst:

- ein sich bewegendes Handlaufband (21), das als Endlosschleife geformt ist, in welchem ein oberer Stützabschnitt (22) vorhanden ist, auf welchem der Passagier seinen Arm abstützen kann, einen unteren Rückführabschnitt (23) und Endkurvenabschnitte (24), in welchen der Rückführabschnitt (23) sich so biegt, dass er der Stützabschnitt (22) wird und vice versa am Eingangsende (5) und am Ausgangsende (6) des Fahrsteiges oder der sich bewegenden Rampe, und

- einen Handlaufrahmen (25), der eine obere Führung (26) zum Stützen und Führen des oberen Stützabschnitts (22) des Handlaufbandes enthält und gekurvte Umlenkführungen (27) zum Stützen und Führen der Endkurvenabschnitte (24) des Handlaufbandes an dem Eingangsende und Ausgangsende des Fahrsteigs oder der sich bewegenden Rampe, und welcher Handlaufrahmen (25) modular geformt ist, so dass das zentrale Modul (2) des Fahrsteiges oder der sich bewegenden Rampe im Hauptteil des Handlaufrahmens (25) enthält, und das Endmodul (3,4) einen Teil des Handlaufrahmens (25) enthält, der kleiner ist als der Hauptteil, wobei das Endmodul die Umlenkführung (27) und einen Teil der oberen Führung (26) umfasst.

5. Fahrsteig nach Anspruch 4, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das erste Endmodul (3) eine Antriebseinheit (13) zum Bewegen des Handlaufbandes (21) hat.

6. Fahrsteig nach Anspruch 5, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das erste Endmodul (3) Traktionselemente (28) zum Übermitteln der Antriebskraft von der Antriebseinheit (13) zum Antrieb des Förderers (1) und des Handlaufbandes (21) hat.

7. Fahrsteig nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Mittel zum Bewegen der Endmodule (3,4) Greifelemente (29) haben, die geeignet sind, um mit einer Bewegungseinrichtung (30) gegriffen zu werden.

8. Fahrsteig nach Anspruch 7, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass wenn die Bewegungseinrichtung (30) ein Gabelstapler oder dergleichen ist, der Hebegabeln (31) hat, die Greifelemente (29) der Endmodule (3,4) so angepasst sind, dass sie mit den Hebegabeln (30) gegriffen werden können, um die Endmodule anzuheben und zu bewegen.

9. Fahrsteig nach Anspruch 7, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Mittel zum Bewegen der Endmodule (3,4) Räder (32) enthalten.

10. Fahrsteig nach Anspruch 9, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das Endmodul (3,4) ein angelenktes Element (33) hat, welches mit einem Drehgelenk (34) an das Endmodul (3,4) angelenkt ist, und an welchem angelenkten Element (33) ein Rad (32) an einem Lager in einem Abstand von dem Gelenk (34) montiert ist, in welchem Fall das angelenkte Element (33) bewegt werden kann zwischen der Lagerposition (I) und der Bewegungsposition (II), in welcher Lagerposition (I) das Endmodul (3,4) in Kontakt mit der festen Basis ist und in welcher Bewegungsposition (II) das Endmodul von der Basis abgehoben wird, um durch das Rad (32) zum Bewegen des Endmoduls gestützt zu werden.

11. Fahrsteig nach einem der Ansprüche 1-10, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der Förderer (1) folgende Merkmale enthält:

- zwei längliche boxartige Rahmenhälften (35, 36), welche die erste Rahmenhälfte (35) und die zweite Rahmenhälfte (36) sind, die in einem Abstand voneinander mit Querverstrebungen (100) gestützt sind, so dass sie parallel zueinander verlaufen, von welchen Rahmenhälften der Hauptteil sich in dem zentralen Modul (2) befindet und ein Abschnitt kleiner als der Hauptteil sich in den Endmodulen (3, 4) befindet, und jede Rahmenhälfte (35, 36) ein Teil (37) enthält, das im normalen Gebrauch stationär ist, und ein Teil (38) das sich in Relation dazu bewegt, um die Traktionselemente zu spannen,

- ein erstes Traktionselement (11) welches als Endloskette ausgebildet und innerhalb der ersten Rahmenhälfte (35) angeordnet ist,

- ein zweites Traktionselement (12) welches als Endloskette ausgebildet und innerhalb der zweiten Rahmenhälfte (36) angeordnet ist,

- eine Vielzahl von Transportflächen (39), wie zum Beispiel Paletten, die aufeinanderfolgend angeordnet und an dem ersten Traktionselement (11) und dem zweiten Traktionselement (12) befestigt sind,

- ein erstes Antriebsrad (9), welches auf einem Lager an dem stationären Teil (37) in dem ersten Endmodul (3) montiert ist und über welches das erste Traktionselement (11) geführt ist,

- ein erstes Umlenkrad (15), welches auf einem Lager an dem sich bewegenden Teil (38) in dem zweiten Endmodul (4) montiert ist und über welches das erste Traktionselement (11) geführt ist,

- ein zweites Antriebsrad (10), welches auf einem Lager an dem stationären Teil (37) in dem ersten Endmodul (3) montiert ist und über welches das zweite Traktionselement (12) geführt ist,

- ein zweites Umlenkrad (16), welches auf einem Lager an dem sich bewegenden Teil (38) in dem zweiten Endmodul (4) montiert ist und über welches das zweite Traktionselement (12) geführt ist,

- eine erste Spanneinrichtung (17), die in dem zweiten Endmodul (4) in der ersten Rahmenhälfte (35) vorgesehen und angeordnet ist, um den stationären Teil (37) zu beeinflussen und das Verhältnis zwischen diesem und dem sich bewegenden Teil (38), um flexibel das erste Antriebsrad (9) und das erste Umlenkrad (15) voneinander weg zu drücken, um das erste Traktionselement (11) mit der ersten Spannbewegung zu spannen, um die Verlängerung des ersten Traktionselements zu kompensieren,

- eine zweite Spanneinrichtung (18), die in dem zweiten Endmodul (4) in der zweiten Rahmenhälfte (36) vorgesehen und angeordnet ist, um den stationären Teil (37) zu beeinflussen und das Verhältnis zwischen diesem und dem sich bewegenden Teil (38), um das zweite Antriebsrad (10) und das zweite Umlenkrad (16) flexibel voneinander weg zu drücken, um das zweite Traktionselement (12) mit der zweiten Spannbewegung zu spannen, um die Verlängerung des zweiten Traktionselements zu kompensieren, und

- mechanische Übertragungselemente (40) um die Stelllängen der ersten und zweiten Spannbewegung zwischen der ersten Spanneinrichtung (17) und der zweiten Spanneinrichtung (18) gleich groß zu halten.

12. Fahrsteig nach Anspruch 11, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der Förderer (1) erste Synchronisierungsmittel (41) enthält, die in dem ersten Endmodul (3) angeordnet sind, um das erste Antriebsrad (9) und das zweite Antriebsrad (10) miteinander zu synchronisieren.

13. Fahrsteig nach einem der Ansprüche 1-12, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der Förderer (1) zweite Synchronisierungsmittel (42) enthält, die in dem zweiten Endmodul (4) angeordnet sind, um das erste Umlenkrad (15) und das zweite Umlenkrad (16) miteinander zu synchronisieren.

14. Verfahren zum Warten eines Fahrsteigs nach einem der Ansprüche 1― 13, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass

- der Fahrsteig gestoppt und für den Verkehr gesperrt wird,

- das eine Wartung benötigende Endmodul (3,4) von dem zentralen Modul (2) entfernt wird,

- ein neues oder gewartetes Endmodul (3', 4') mit dem zentralen Modul (2) verbunden wird,

- das eine Wartung benötigende Endmodul (3,4) von dem Fahrsteig entfernt wird, um an einer Wartungsstelle gewartet zu werden,

- der Fahrsteig gestartet und für den Verkehr geöffnet wird.

15. Verfahren zum Warten eines Fahrsteigs nach einem der Ansprüche 1― 13, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass

- der Fahrsteig gestoppt und für den Verkehr gesperrt wird,

- das eine Wartung benötigende Endmodul (3,4) von dem zentralen Modul (2) entfernt wird,

- das Endmodul (3,4) an einer separaten Stelle entfernt von dem Fahrsteig gewartet wird,

- das gewartete Endmodul (3,4) mit dem zentralen Modul (2) verbunden wird,

- der Fahrsteig gestartet und für den Verkehr geöffnet wird.

Revendications

1. Tapis roulant comprenant un système de transport (1), lequel tapis roulant étant un tapis roulant à structure basse, adapté à être installé sur une base fixe, ladite base fixe étant le sol, dans lequel il n'est pas nécessaire de réaliser un renfoncement pour les mécanismes de commande du tapis roulant dans le sol, dans lequel le tapis roulant est modulaire de telle sorte que le tapis roulant comprend un module central (2) à la position essentiellement fixe, qui comprend une partie principale de la longueur du système de transport (1), et au moins un module d'extrémité (3, 4) relié de manière détachable au module central (2), qui comprend une section du système de transport plus courte que la partie principale ainsi que des éléments pouvant être révisés, caractérisé par le fait que ledit module d'extrémité (3, 4) comprend les machines d'entraînement (9, 10, 13) du système de transport qui comprennent le bloc moteur (13) pour déplacer la courroie de main courante et entraîner le système de transport, et que le module d'extrémité (3, 4) comprend des moyens pour déplacer le module d'extrémité, de telle sorte que ledit module d'extrémité (3, 4) peut être relié de manière détachable au module central en déplaçant ledit module d'extrémité (3, 4) sur ce sol.

2. Tapis roulant selon la revendication 1, caractérisé par le fait que le tapis roulant ou la rampe mobile comprend deux modules d'extrémité (3, 4), qui peuvent être modulairement détachés de et reliés au module central (2).

3. Tapis roulant selon la revendication 1 ou 2, caractérisé par le fait que le tapis roulant ou la rampe mobile comprend une extrémité d'entrée (5) et une extrémité de sortie (6) ; que le système de transport (1) contient une section de transport supérieure (7) destinée à transporter des passagers de l'extrémité d'entrée à l'extrémité de sortie et une section de retour inférieure (8) destinée à renvoyer le système de transport de l'extrémité de sortie à l'extrémité d'entrée ; et que les modules d'extrémité (3, 4) comprennent

- un premier module d'extrémité (3), qui comprend une roue d'entraînement (9, 10) destinée à entraîner l'élément de traction (11, 12) du système de transport (1), un bloc moteur (13) destiné à faire tourner la roue d'entraînement (9, 10), et une première zone de transition (14), dans laquelle la direction de transport du système de transport change entre la section de transport (7) et la section de retour (8), et

- un second module d'extrémité (4), qui comprend une roue de détour (15, 16) destinée à détourner l'élément de traction (11, 12), un dispositif de tension (17, 18) destiné à déplacer la roue de détour (15, 16) par rapport à la roue d'entraînement (9, 10) pour tendre l'élément de traction (11, 12), et une seconde zone de transition (19), dans laquelle la direction de transport du système de transport change entre la section de retour (8) et la section de transport (7).

4. Tapis roulant selon la revendication 3, caractérisé par le fait que le tapis roulant ou la rampe mobile comprend une main courante (20), qui comprend

- une courroie de main courante mobile (21) ayant la forme d'un maillon sans fin, dans laquelle se trouve une section de soutien supérieure (22), sur laquelle le passager peut appuyer son bras, une section de retour inférieure (23) et des sections d'extrémité courbes (24), dans lesquelles la section de retour (23) se tord pour devenir la section de soutien (22) et vice versa à l'extrémité d'entrée (5) et l'extrémité de sortie (6) du tapis roulant ou de la rampe mobile, et

- un châssis de main courante (25), qui comprend un guide supérieur (26) destiné à soutenir et à guider la section de soutien supérieure (22) de la courroie de main courante et des guides de détour courbés (27) destinés à soutenir et à guider les sections d'extrémité courbes (24) de la courroie de main courante au niveau de l'extrémité d'entrée et de l'extrémité de sortie du tapis roulant ou de la rampe mobile, et ledit châssis de main courante (25) est formé pour être modulaire de telle sorte que le module central (2) du tapis roulant ou de la rampe mobile comprend la partie principale du châssis de main courante (25), et le module d'extrémité (3, 4) comprend une partie du châssis de main courante (25) qui est plus petite que la partie principale avec le module d'extrémité comprenant le guide de détour (27) et une partie du guide supérieur (26).

5. Tapis roulant selon la revendication 4, caractérisé par le fait que le premier module d'extrémité (3) comprend un bloc moteur (13) pour déplacer la courroie de main courante (21).

6. Tapis roulant selon la revendication 5, caractérisé par le fait que le premier module d'extrémité (3) comprend des éléments de traction (28) destinés à transmettre la force d'entraînement provenant du bloc moteur (13) pour entraîner le système de transport (1) et la courroie de main courante (21).

7. Tapis roulant selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé par le fait que les moyens de déplacement du module d'extrémité (3, 4) comprennent des éléments de prise (29), qui sont adaptés pour venir en prise avec un dispositif mobile (30).

8. Tapis roulant selon la revendication 7, caractérisé par le fait que, quand le dispositif mobile (30) est un fourgon élévateur à fourche, un chariot élévateur à fourche ou similaire, qui a des griffes de levage (31), les éléments de prise (29) du module d'extrémité (3, 4) sont adaptés de telles sorte qu'ils peuvent être saisis avec des griffes de levage (31) pour lever et déplacer le module d'extrémité.

9. Tapis roulant selon la revendication 7, caractérisé par le fait que les moyens destinés à déplacer le module d'extrémité (3, 4) comprennent des roues (32).

10. Tapis roulant selon la revendication 9, caractérisé par le fait que le module d'extrémité (3, 4) comprend un élément articulé (33), qui est articulé avec un joint de rotation (34) au module d'extrémité (3, 4) et sur lequel élément articulé (33) une roue (32) est montée sur un palier à une certaine distance du joint (34), auquel cas l'élément à charnière (33) peut être pivoté entre la position de repos (I) et la position de déplacement (II), dans laquelle position de repos (I) le module d'extrémité (3, 4) est en contact avec la base fixe et dans laquelle position de déplacement (II) le module d'extrémité est décollé de la base pour être soutenu par la roue (32) pour déplacer le module d'extrémité.

11. Tapis roulant selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 10, caractérisé par le fait que le système de transport (1) comprend

- deux moitiés de châssis (35, 36) allongées en forme de boîte, qui sont la première moitié de châssis (35) et la seconde moitié de châssis (36), qui sont soutenues à distance l'une de l'autre avec des entretoises transversales (100) de manière à être parallèles entre elles, desquelles moitiés de châssis la partie principale est dans le module central (2) et la section plus petite que la partie principale est dans les modules d'extrémité (3, 4), et chaque moitié de châssis (35, 36) comprend une partie (37) qui est fixe en utilisation normale, et une partie (38) qui se déplace par rapport à celle-ci dans le but de tendre les éléments de traction,

- un premier élément de traction (11), qui a la forme d'un maillon sans fin et est installé à l'intérieur de la première moitié du châssis (35),

- un second élément de traction (12), qui a la forme d'un maillon sans fin et est installé à l'intérieur de la seconde moitié du châssis (36),

- une pluralité de surfaces de transport (39), telles que des palettes, qui sont installées les unes derrière les autres et fixées au premier élément de traction (11) et au second élément de traction (12),

- une première roue d'entraînement (9), qui est montée sur un palier sur la partie fixe (37) dans le premier module d'extrémité (3) et par laquelle le premier élément de traction (11) est dirigé,

- une première roue de détour (15), qui est montée sur un palier sur la partie mobile (38) dans le second module d'extrémité (4) et par laquelle le premier élément de traction (11) est dirigé,

- une seconde roue d'entraînement (10), qui est montée sur un palier sur la partie fixe (37) dans le premier module d'extrémité (3) et par laquelle le second élément de traction (12) est dirigé,

- une seconde roue de détour (16), qui est montée sur un palier sur la partie mobile (38) dans le second module d'extrémité (4) et par laquelle le second élément de traction (12) est dirigé,

- un premier dispositif de tension (17), qui est dans le second module d'extrémité (4) dans la première moitié de châssis (35) et installé pour avoir des répercussions sur la partie fixe (37), et la relation entre celle-ci et la partie mobile (38) afin de repousser de manière flexible la première roue d'entraînement (9) à distance de la seconde roue de détour (15) pour tendre le premier élément de traction (11) avec le premier mouvement de tension afin de compenser l'allongement du premier élément de traction,

- un second dispositif de tension (18), qui est dans le second module d'extrémité (4) dans la seconde moitié de châssis (36) et installé pour avoir des répercussions sur la partie fixe (37), et la relation entre celle-ci et la partie mobile (38) afin de repousser de manière flexible la seconde roue d'entraînement (10) à distance de la seconde roue de détour (16) pour tendre le second élément de traction (12) avec le second mouvement de tension afin de compenser l'allongement du second élément de traction, et

- des éléments de transmission mécanique (40) destinés à maintenir égales les courses des premier et second mouvements de tension entre le premier dispositif de tension (17) et le second dispositif de tension (18).

12. Tapis roulant selon la revendication 11, caractérisé par le fait que le système de transport (1) comprend des premiers moyens de synchronisation (41), qui sont installés dans le premier module d'extrémité (3) pour synchroniser entre elles la première roue d'entraînement (9) et la seconde roue d'entraînement (10).

13. Tapis roulant selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 12, caractérisé par le fait que le système de transport (1) comprend des seconds moyens de synchronisation (42), qui sont installés dans le second module d'extrémité (4) pour synchroniser entre elles la première roue de détour (15) et la seconde roue de détour (16).

14. Procédé de révision d'un tapis roulant selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 13, caractérisé par le fait que

- le tapis roulant est arrêté et fermé au trafic,

- le module d'extrémité (3, 4) nécessitant une révision est séparé du module central (2),

- un module d'extrémité (3', 4') neuf ou révisé est relié au module central (2),

- le module d'extrémité (3, 4) nécessitant une révision est transporté à distance du tapis roulant pour être révisé sur le site de révision,

- le tapis roulant est démarré et ouvert au trafic.

15. Procédé de révision d'un tapis roulant selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 13, caractérisé par le fait que

- le tapis roulant est arrêté et fermé au trafic,

- le module d'extrémité (3, 4) nécessitant une révision est séparé du module central (2),

- le module d'extrémité (3, 4) est révisé sur un site distinct, à distance du tapis roulant,

- le module d'extrémité (3, 4) révisé est relié au module central (2).

- le tapis roulant est démarré et ouvert au trafic.

Drawing