System and method for controlling elevator system access

Abstract

An exemplary elevator system includes at least one elevator car. An access controller is configured to provide an access credential to a portable wireless communication device responsive to a request from that device indicating a desire for at least access to the elevator system. The access credential at least temporarily indicates that the desired access should be granted. A credential receiver is configured to obtain the provided access credential from the portable wireless communication device. An entry device allows the desired access responsive to the credential receiver obtaining the access credential.

Description

Background technique [0001] Elevator systems are widely used to carry passengers between floors in buildings. Elevator systems have traditionally included hall call buttons to allow elevator passengers to provide an indication of the intended direction of travel when calling an elevator. Once an elevator car is available at the place of call, the passenger enters the elevator car and uses the car operating panel to provide an indication of the passenger's intended destination. This system has proven useful and reliable over the years. [0002] Recently various elevator system configurations have been introduced that allow passengers to indicate their intended destination from the outside of the elevator car. Some such systems are equipped with a kiosk or passenger interface on the hall door. Passengers can use kiosks to enter their intended destination. The elevator system determines which car to assign to each passenger upon request, and provides an indication of the assi...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

[0003] A limitation of such systems is that passengers typically have to remember which elevator car to enter, and it can take some time between when a passenger is informed and when they actually enter the elevator car

Another disadvantage associated with such systems is that they provide limited security for the passengers who can enter the elevator car

For example, there are situations where elevator system access is restricted for security reasons

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