Method and apparatus for controlling an elevator system

Abstract

According to an aspect, vehicle parking information is used for controlling an elevator system. The vehicle parking information indicates that at least one parking space is occupied, and one or more elements of the elevator system can be controlled based on the vehicle parking information. A device, a method and a computer program are provided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of elevator systems. In particular, some example embodiments relate to controlling elevator systems. Background Technology

[0002] Parking spaces are available both inside and outside the building. When a driver arrives at the parking lot, they must first find an empty parking space, then locate an elevator and wait for it to arrive at their destination. Depending on the size and occupancy level of the parking lot, as well as the current traffic conditions of the elevator system, this can take a considerable amount of time. Furthermore, some users may have special needs that can complicate the process of easily reaching their destination after parking. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The aim is to provide a solution for controlling elevator systems based on vehicle parking information. For example, based on vehicle parking information, user requirements and locations can be considered together with the elevator system's capacity and estimated traffic to improve elevator service and user experience.

[0004] According to a first aspect, a method for controlling an elevator system is provided. The method includes receiving vehicle parking information associated with at least one parking space in a building, the vehicle parking information indicating that the at least one parking space is occupied; and controlling the elevator system based on the vehicle parking information.

[0005] In an embodiment of the first aspect, the method includes determining at least one element of an elevator system to be controlled based on the location of at least one parking space.

[0006] In an implementation of the first aspect, the method includes using vehicle parking information to estimate the walking time from at least one parking space to the nearest elevator.

[0007] In the first aspect of the implementation, the elevator control system based on vehicle parking information includes controlling the stopping of the elevator car in the elevator shaft based on vehicle parking information.

[0008] In the first aspect of the implementation, controlling the elevator car to stop includes controlling the elevator to stop at the floor with the highest probability of a new elevator call.

[0009] In an embodiment of the first aspect, controlling an elevator system based on vehicle parking information includes using vehicle parking information as an indication of a possible elevator call from a floor associated with at least one parking space.

[0010] In the first aspect of the implementation, the elevator control system based on vehicle parking information includes making elevator calls based on vehicle parking information.

[0011] In an embodiment of the first aspect, the method includes determining a destination floor based on vehicle parking information, and wherein making an elevator call includes making a destination call to the destination floor.

[0012] In an implementation of the first aspect, the method includes determining that at least one parking space is associated with a predefined user or user category, and wherein controlling the elevator system includes controlling the elevator system based on the predefined user or user category.

[0013] In an implementation of the first aspect, controlling the elevator system based on a predefined user or user category includes reserving space in the elevator.

[0014] In an implementation of the first aspect, controlling the elevator system based on a predefined user or user category includes adjusting elevator door parameters for elevator travel associated with a specific user or user category.

[0015] In an implementation of the first aspect, controlling the elevator system based on a predefined user or user category includes enabling at least one of voice control or voice guidance for elevator travel associated with the user or user category.

[0016] In an implementation of the first aspect, vehicle parking information indicates full occupancy of a parking floor associated with at least one parking space, and wherein controlling the elevator system based on vehicle parking information includes using vehicle parking information as an indication that an elevator call does not originate from the floor associated with at least one parking space and there is no expected elevator passenger traffic.

[0017] In an embodiment of the first aspect, the elevator system based on vehicle parking information includes controlling the elevator car to stop at a different floor location than the floor associated with at least one parking space.

[0018] In an embodiment of the first aspect, vehicle parking information indicates a high arrival rate of vehicles to a specific floor in a building, and the method further includes taking into account the high arrival rate of vehicles to the specific floor when controlling the elevator system.

[0019] According to a second aspect, an apparatus for controlling an elevator system is provided. The apparatus includes means for receiving vehicle parking information associated with at least one parking space in a building, the vehicle parking information indicating that the at least one parking space is occupied; and means for controlling the elevator system based on the vehicle parking information.

[0020] In a second aspect of the implementation, the device includes means for determining at least one element of the elevator system to be controlled based on the location of at least one parking space.

[0021] In a second aspect of the implementation, the device includes means for using vehicle parking information to estimate the walking time from the parking space to the nearest elevator.

[0022] In a second aspect of the implementation, the apparatus for controlling the elevator system based on vehicle parking information is configured to control the parking of the elevator car in the elevator shaft based on vehicle parking information.

[0023] In a second aspect of the implementation, the device for controlling the elevator car to stop is configured to control the elevator to stop at the floor with the highest probability of a new elevator call.

[0024] In a second aspect of the implementation, the means for controlling an elevator system based on vehicle parking information is configured to use the vehicle parking information as an indication of a possible elevator call from a floor associated with at least one parking space.

[0025] In a second aspect of the implementation, the device for controlling the elevator system based on vehicle parking information is configured to make elevator calls based on vehicle parking information.

[0026] In a second aspect of the implementation, the device includes means for determining a destination floor based on vehicle parking information, and wherein the means for making an elevator call is configured to make a destination call to the destination floor.

[0027] In a second aspect of the implementation, the device includes means for determining that at least one parking space is associated with a predefined user or user category, and wherein the means for controlling the elevator system is configured to control the elevator system based on the predefined user or user category.

[0028] In a second aspect of the implementation, the means for controlling the elevator system based on a predefined user or user category is configured to reserve space from the elevator.

[0029] In a second aspect of the implementation, the means for controlling the elevator system based on a predefined user or user category is configured to adjust elevator door parameters for elevator travel associated with a specific user or user category.

[0030] In an embodiment of the second aspect, the means for controlling the elevator system based on a predefined user or user category is configured to enable at least one of voice control or voice guidance for elevator travel associated with the user or user category.

[0031] In one embodiment, additionally or alternatively, vehicle parking information indicates full occupancy of a parking floor associated with at least one parking space, and wherein means for controlling the elevator system based on vehicle parking information are configured to use vehicle parking information as an indication that no elevator passenger traffic is expected from the floor associated with at least one parking space.

[0032] In a second aspect of the implementation, the means for controlling the elevator system based on vehicle parking information is configured to control the elevator car to stop at a different floor location than the floor associated with at least one parking space.

[0033] In a second aspect of the implementation, the vehicle parking information indicates a high arrival rate of vehicles to a specific floor in a building, and the device includes means for taking into account the high arrival rate of vehicles to a specific floor when controlling the elevator system.

[0034] According to the third aspect, an elevator system including the equipment of the second aspect is provided.

[0035] According to a fourth aspect, a computer program including program code is provided, which, when executed by at least one processing unit, causes the at least one processing unit to perform the method according to the first aspect.

[0036] According to a fifth aspect, a computer-readable medium is provided that includes a computer program comprising program code, which, when executed by at least one processing unit, causes the at least one processing unit to perform the method according to the first aspect.

[0037] For example, the above-described apparatus can be implemented using at least one processor, at least one processor and at least one memory connected to the at least one processor, or at least one processor, at least one memory connected to the at least one processor and an input / output interface connected to the at least one processor. Attached Figure Description

[0038] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the subject matter and form part of this specification. The drawings illustrate embodiments of the subject matter and, together with the specification, help explain the principles of the subject matter. In the drawings:

[0039] Figure 1 An apparatus for controlling an elevator system according to an embodiment is shown.

[0040] Figure 2 An elevator system according to an embodiment is shown, the elevator system including equipment configured to control the elevator system based on vehicle parking information received from a vehicle parking system.

[0041] Figure 3AAn example of a first parking floor of a building associated with a vehicle parking management system according to an embodiment is shown.

[0042] Figure 3B An example of a second parking floor of a building associated with a vehicle parking management system according to an embodiment is shown.

[0043] Figure 4 An example of a method for controlling an elevator system based on vehicle parking information according to an embodiment is shown.

[0044] In the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals are used to denote the same parts. Detailed Implementation

[0045] Parking is becoming increasingly convenient for users of modern parking systems. For example, parking spaces can have indicators to help drivers find available spaces instead of circling the parking lot while searching for vacant spots. These indicators could be, for example, lights mounted above each parking space that change color from green to red when a sensor associated with the space identifies that a vehicle is parked there. Parking space reservation solutions also exist, such as using mobile applications to display which parking spaces are occupied and which are still available. The mobile application can receive information from the system, which receives information from sensors associated with the parking spaces, or update the parking situation based on reservations received from other users via the application. Parking lots can also have camera monitoring solutions that can be automatically or manually monitored by operators, providing updates on key parking conditions. Typically, parking lots are associated with buildings, and users of parking spaces can use the building's elevators to reach their final destination.

[0046] According to an embodiment, a method enables control of a building's elevator system based on vehicle parking information associated with at least one parking space in the building. The method can be performed, for example, by a device, controller, or elevator controller. The device or controller can be an internal or external component of the elevator system. An external component can refer to, for example, a cloud-based controller or other control entity. The vehicle parking information can indicate that at least one parking space is occupied. The vehicle parking information can further include additional information, such as the parking space being dedicated to a specific user or user category. The vehicle parking information can be provided as input to elevator control. This achieves a solution where possible elevator calls can be predicted and the elevator can be controlled accordingly. Furthermore, in response to the occupancy of a parking space associated with a user, the preferences and needs of a specific user or user category can be considered in the elevator control. Based on the vehicle parking information, enhanced elevator services and ease of use can be provided to specific users in a timely manner.

[0047] Figure 1An apparatus 100 for controlling an elevator system according to an embodiment is illustrated. The apparatus 100 may include at least one processor 102. The apparatus 100 may further include at least one memory 104. The memory 104 may include program code 106, which, when executed by the processor 102, causes the apparatus 100 to perform at least one example embodiment. Exemplary embodiments and aspects of this subject matter may be included in any suitable apparatus capable of performing processes of the exemplary embodiments, such as servers, elevator controllers, and workstations. The exemplary embodiments may also store information related to the various processes described herein. Although the apparatus 100 is shown as a single apparatus, it should be understood that the functionality of the apparatus 100 may be distributed across multiple apparatuses where applicable.

[0048] The example embodiments can be implemented using software, hardware, application logic, or a combination of software, hardware, and application logic. The example embodiments can store information related to the various methods described herein. This information can be stored in one or more memories 104, such as a hard disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, RAM, etc. One or more databases can store information used to implement the example embodiments. The databases can be organized using data structures (e.g., records, tables, arrays, fields, graphs, trees, lists, etc.) included in one or more memories or storage devices listed herein. The methods described with respect to the example embodiments can include appropriate data structures for storing data collected and / or generated by the methods of the devices and subsystems of the example embodiments in one or more databases.

[0049] Those skilled in the art of computers and / or software will understand that processor 102 may include one or more general-purpose processors, microprocessors, digital signal processors, microcontrollers, etc., programmed according to the teachings of the example embodiments. Those skilled in the art of software will understand that programmers of ordinary technology can easily prepare appropriate software based on the teachings of the example embodiments. Furthermore, those skilled in the art of electrical engineering will understand that the example embodiments can be implemented by preparing application-specific integrated circuits or by using appropriate networks to interconnect conventional component circuits. Therefore, these examples are not limited to any particular combination of hardware and / or software. Examples stored on any or a combination of computer-readable media may include software for controlling components of the example embodiments, driving components of the example embodiments, enabling components of the example embodiments to interact with human users, etc. Such computer-readable media may also include computer programs for performing all or part of the processes performed in implementing the example embodiments (if the processes are distributed). The computer code device of the examples may include any suitable interpretable or executable code mechanism, including but not limited to scripts, interpreters, dynamic link libraries (DLLs), Java classes and applets, complete executable programs, etc.

[0050] As described above, components of the example embodiments may include computer-readable media or memory 104 for storing instructions programmed according to teachings, as well as for storing data structures, tables, records, and / or other data described herein. In the example embodiments, application logic, software, or instruction sets are maintained on any of a variety of conventional computer-readable media. In the context of this document, "computer-readable medium" can be any medium or means capable of containing, storing, communicating, propagating, or transmitting instructions used by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device (e.g., a computer). A computer-readable medium may include a computer-readable storage medium, which can be any medium or means capable of containing or storing instructions used by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device (e.g., a computer). A computer-readable medium may include any suitable medium involved in providing instructions to a processor for execution. Such media may take many forms, including but not limited to non-volatile media, volatile media, transmission media, etc.

[0051] Device 100 may include a communication interface 108 configured to enable device 100 to send information to and / or receive information from other devices. Communication interface 108 may be configured to provide at least one of the following: a wireless radio connection (e.g., a 3GPP-specified mobile broadband connection (e.g., 3G, 4G, 5G)), a wireless local area network (WLAN) connection (e.g., standardized by the IEEE 802.11 series or the Wi-Fi Alliance), a wired connection (e.g., a local area network (LAN) connection, a universal serial bus (USB) connection, or an optical network connection, etc.), or a wired internet connection.

[0052] The device 100 includes means for performing at least one method described herein. In one example, the means may include at least one processor 102, and the at least one memory 104 includes program code 106 configured to cause the device 100 to perform the method when executed by the at least one processor 102.

[0053] Figure 2An elevator system 202 according to one embodiment is illustrated, including a device 100 configured to control the elevator system 200 based on vehicle parking information received from a vehicle parking management system 202. The elevator system 204 may include one or more elevators or groups of elevators. The elevator system 202 and / or the vehicle parking management system 200 may be associated with a specific building or multiple buildings. The vehicle parking management system 200 may include multiple parking spaces, the occupancy of which is monitored by the vehicle parking management system 200. In one embodiment, each parking space may include a sensor configured to indicate whether the parking space is vacant or occupied. The vehicle parking management system 200 may acquire data from the sensors and monitor traffic and parking space reservations. The vehicle parking management system 200 may be configured to communicate with the elevator system 204 or the device 100. The vehicle parking management system 200 may transmit, for example, sensor locations indicating occupied parking spaces, a specific user or user category associated with the parking space, and / or the start time of parking to the device 100. In one embodiment, the vehicle parking management system 200 may include one or more surveillance cameras configured to provide vehicle parking information. In one embodiment, a surveillance camera can be monitored by operator 202, who can provide vehicle parking information to device 100. For example, operator 202 can input vehicle parking information into a building management system that includes an elevator system. Device 100 can automatically receive vehicle parking information from vehicle parking management system 200, or as a result of user input from operator 202. In another embodiment, vehicle parking information can be automatically sent from vehicle parking management system 200 to elevator system 204 or device 100. Device 100 can use the received vehicle parking information to control the operation of one or more elevators, enabling users associated with at least one occupied parking space to receive convenient elevator service.

[0054] Figure 3A An example of a first parking level 300 of a building associated with a vehicle parking management system according to an embodiment is shown. The first parking level 300 may include a plurality of parking spaces 302, 304A, 304B, 304C, 306, 310. Each parking space 302, 304A, 304B, 304C, 306, 310 may include a sensor 308 configured to indicate the reservation status of the parking space 302, 303, 304A, 304B, 304C, 310. The sensor 308 may be coupled to an indicator, such as an LED that changes color in response to a vehicle detected by the sensor 308 in the parking space. The LED may provide guidance to the driver in finding an available parking space. Figure 3AIn the parking management system 200, the reserved status of parking spaces 302, 304A, 304B, 304C, 306, and 310 is indicated by a dark-colored sensor 308 (occupied) and a light-colored sensor 308 (idle). Sensor data can be stored in the vehicle parking management system 200 and provided to a device 100 configured to control the building's elevator system. The elevator system may include one or more elevators 312A and 312B.

[0055] Parking floor 300 may include reserved parking spaces, such as parking spaces 304A, 304B, and 304C reserved for disabled persons and parking spaces 302 and 306 reserved for specific users. Specific users may include, for example, CEOs who have offices in the building. Parking floor 300 may also include parking space 306 reserved for specific user categories, such as parking spaces reserved for customers of car rental companies or employees of companies with offices in the building. Specific user categories may have, for example, special needs or recurring habits. Special needs may include, for example, typical requirements or personal preferences of disabled persons. Recurring habits may include, for example, the user's usual destination floor.

[0056] Whenever the status of any sensor 308 indicates that a vehicle has been parked in a parking space, the vehicle parking management system 200 can send vehicle parking information. Vehicle parking information associated with at least one parking space 302, 304A, 304B, 304C, 306, 310 of a building can be received by the device, which may include device 100. The vehicle parking information may indicate that at least one parking space is occupied. The device can then control the elevator system based on the vehicle parking information. In one embodiment, device 100 may determine at least one element of the elevator system to be controlled based on the location of at least one parking space. This element may be, for example, an elevator car or elevator parameters. Elevator parameters may be, for example, elevator car door parameters or elevator control parameters. Elevator car door parameters may include door time determining how long the elevator car door remains open before closing. Elevator control parameters may be associated with, for example, the floor the elevator car stops at, distinguishing elevator call priorities, initiating an elevator call, initiating a destination call, or adjusting elevator traffic prediction.

[0057] For example, vehicle 314 may have arrived at disabled parking space 304C. When vehicle 314 is parked in parking space 304C, sensor 308 associated with parking space 304C can send data to vehicle parking management system 200, indicating that parking space 304C is now reserved. In response, device 100 can receive vehicle parking information including reservation data. The reservation data may include the start time of parking and the location of parking space 304C. In one embodiment, the vehicle parking information may further include additional information associated with parking space 304C. Optionally, the vehicle parking information may only include an indication that a specific parking space is occupied, and device 100 may have stored records including additional information associated with a specific parking space.

[0058] In one embodiment, additional information may include an indication that a parking space is associated with a predefined user category. The predefined user category may include a disability category. The device may control the elevator system based on the predefined user category. In one embodiment, device 100 may change the elevator door parameters of the elevator that receives an elevator call to the parking floor 300 associated with parking space 304C. The door parameters may be changed, for example, to prolong the time the elevator door remains open, allowing the disabled person more time to enter and exit the elevator. Device 100 may be configured to switch the door parameters back to the initial door parameters after the user has left the elevator. In one embodiment, device 100 may activate at least one of voice control or voice guidance to assist visually impaired persons in using the elevator. Voice control enables the user to operate the elevator using voice commands. Voice guidance may instruct the user on the opening and closing of the elevator car doors, the current floor of the elevator, and the destination floor of the elevator. In one embodiment, device 100 may control the elevator's passenger capacity to provide sufficient space for disabled persons who may use wheelchairs. In one embodiment, device 100 may control the elevator system based on vehicle parking information and current elevator traffic conditions. Elevator door timing can only be adjusted when the main elevator traffic conditions allow it, such as during off-peak hours.

[0059] In one embodiment, vehicle parking information may include the estimated walking time from the parking space to the nearest elevator. For example, a second vehicle 316 may have already parked in a regular parking space 318 before the first vehicle 314 arrives at the parking space 304C reserved for disabled persons. The vehicle parking information received by device 100 may include the location of parking spaces 304C and 318, the start time of parking, and the estimated walking time from parking spaces 304C and 318 to the nearest elevator 312B. Therefore, even if the second vehicle 316 arrives first, device 100 can control elevator 312B to serve the user of the first vehicle 314 first, because the user may arrive at elevator 312B first. The estimated walking time associated with each parking space may be received from the vehicle parking management system 200 or stored on device 100. The walking time may also be estimated by the device based on the location of the parking space and the elevator.

[0060] In one embodiment, device 100 can control the stopping of elevator cars in the elevator shaft based on vehicle parking information. For example, based on two recently reserved parking spaces 304C and 318 at a first parking floor 300, device 100 can determine that an elevator call is expected to originate from that floor. Therefore, the device can control at least one of elevators 312A and 312B to stop at that floor, allowing an elevator to wait for a possible new elevator car call. The vehicle parking information can also indicate that another vehicle is already parked at another floor, and device 100 can be configured to stop an elevator at the floor associated with the occupied parking space, which has the shortest estimated walking time to the nearest elevator. The shortest estimated walking time can indicate the highest probability of a new elevator car call. Therefore, elevator traffic can be optimized by estimating possible elevator calls and the service sequence of elevator car calls based on vehicle parking information.

[0061] Typically, vehicle parking information can be used as an indication of a possible elevator call from a floor associated with at least one recently occupied parking space. In one embodiment, device 100 can be configured to make elevator calls based on vehicle parking information. This achieves a solution that can reduce elevator waiting time. An elevator call can be made after a certain threshold. For example, the threshold can be preset based on the average time a user takes to reach the elevator from the parking space, or it can be determined based on the estimated walking time from a specific parking space to the elevator.

[0062] In one embodiment, vehicle 320 may have been parked in parking space 302 reserved for a specific user. In response, sensor 308 at parking space 302 can send vehicle parking information associated with parking space 302, indicating that the parking space is now occupied. Parking space 302 and the corresponding vehicle parking information may be associated with additional information indicating that it has been reserved for a specific person. After receiving the vehicle parking information, device 100 can control the elevator system based on the specific user. In one embodiment, device 100 can issue an elevator call to the floor associated with parking space 302 based on the parking information. In one embodiment, device 100 can reserve one of elevators 312A and 312B to serve only that specific user. In one embodiment, the elevator call may include issuing a destination call to the destination floor associated with the specific user.

[0063] For example, a specific user could be the CEO of a company headquartered in the building. The CEO might want a private elevator to take him / her to headquarters on an upper floor. When device 100 receives an indication that the CEO's parking space 302 is occupied, device 100 can reserve an empty elevator car to pick him / her up from the floor associated with parking space 302 and take him / her to the headquarters floor. In one embodiment, device 100 can prioritize elevator calls associated with parking space 302 so that it is served first regardless of elevator system capacity and current traffic conditions. Vehicle parking information can include any preferences of a specific user, such as private elevator access, express service, and the specific user's destination floor. Alternatively, user preferences associated with a dedicated parking space can be stored on device 100. Control commands associated with a specific parking space can also be associated with a specific user category. For example, parking floor 300 can include one or more reserved parking spaces 306, for example, for customers or employees of a specific company. Parking space 306 can be associated, for example, with the company's floor as a preset destination floor for elevator calls.

[0064] Figure 3B It shows the relationship with Figure 3A The example shown is a second parking floor 332 of a building associated with the same vehicle parking system and elevator system. The second parking floor 332 may include regular parking spaces 324 and parking spaces 322A, 322B, 326 dedicated to specific users or user classes.

[0065] The elevator system may further include a freight elevator 328. When a vehicle 330 is parked in a parking space 326 reserved for loading and unloading goods, the device 100 can make an elevator call to the freight elevator 328 to the second parking floor 320. Therefore, vehicle parking information associated with parking space 326 allows the device 100 to control a specific elevator 328 among multiple elevators 312A, 312B, and 328.

[0066] Specific user categories may include, for example, bus passengers. The device can use vehicle parking information associated with parking spaces 322A and 322B reserved for buses as an indication that elevators 312A and 312B at the second parking floor 332 may experience heavy traffic. Device 100 can be configured to reserve elevator capacity based on vehicle parking information to serve multiple passengers. In one embodiment, device 100 can control the elevator system to stop one or more of elevators 312A and 312B at or near the second parking floor 332 in the elevator shaft based on vehicle parking information associated with parking spaces 322A and 322B. Therefore, elevators 312A and 312B can be ready to wait for possible elevator calls from passengers of buses parked at parking spaces 322A and 322B. Alternatively or additionally, device 100 can make one or more elevator calls to the second parking floor 332 for passengers. The building may include, for example, a hotel, and if a specific user category is associated with a new hotel guest, device 100 can make a destination call to the floor where the hotel reception is located.

[0067] In one embodiment, vehicle parking information may indicate that parking floor 332 associated with at least one parking space 322A, 322B, 324, 326 is fully occupied. Device 100 may use the vehicle parking information as an indication that there is no elevator passenger traffic on the floor associated with at least one parking space 322A, 322B, 324, 326. For example, when elevators 312A, 312B, 328 have already served the user associated with the last available parking space at the second parking floor 332, device 100 may determine that there will be no more elevator calls from the second parking floor 332 because no available parking spaces remain. In response to vehicle parking information indicating that all parking spaces 322A, 322B, 326 on the second parking floor 332 are occupied, device 100 may control the elevator system to stop the elevators at other floors with a higher probability of new elevator calls. This achieves a solution where elevator car waiting time can be reduced because the elevator car may already be at the floor where the next elevator car call is likely to arrive.

[0068] Figure 4A method for controlling an elevator system based on vehicle parking information according to an embodiment is illustrated. This method can be implemented, for example, by device 100. This device can be an elevator controller or another controller that can be an internal or external component of the elevator system. External components can refer to, for example, cloud-based controllers or other control entities.

[0069] At 400, vehicle parking information associated with at least one parking space in the building is received, indicating that the at least one parking space is occupied. The vehicle parking information can be received from the automated vehicle parking management system 200 or from an operator 202 of the vehicle parking management system. The vehicle parking management system 200 may have one or more sensors configured to provide information about the occupancy status of one or more parking spaces in the building.

[0070] At 402, at least one component of the elevator system to be controlled can be identified. This at least one component may include, for example, components or parameters of the elevator system.

[0071] At 404, the elevator system is controlled based on vehicle parking information. Controlling the elevator system may include, for example, adjusting elevator traffic forecasts based on vehicle parking information at 406. In one embodiment, vehicle parking information may include an indication of high arrival rates of vehicles arriving at a specific floor in the building. High vehicle arrival rates may indicate unexpected or increased traffic to a specific floor. Vehicle parking information can be used to adjust or optimize elevator passenger traffic forecasts made based on previous elevator passenger traffic behavior in the building. Vehicle parking information can be used to determine new inputs to the forecast, such that changes compared to typical elevator traffic can be taken into account in the forecast. Furthermore, vehicle parking information can be used to predict the next elevator call from the floor associated with the incoming vehicle traffic.

[0072] At 408, controlling the elevator system may include determining possible new elevator calls from floors associated with at least one parking space. Based on vehicle parking information, the number and source of possible new elevator calls can be estimated to schedule elevator traffic. In one embodiment, elevator calls may be made based on vehicle parking information, allowing the elevator to be dispatched in advance to the floor associated with a possible new elevator car. In one embodiment, vehicle parking information may include additional information associated with the parking space, indicating the possible destination of the user of the parking space. Therefore, destination calls from the floor of the parking space to the user's destination floor may be made based on vehicle parking information. The additional information may include an estimated walking time from the parking space to the nearest elevator, or the walking time may be estimated based on the location of the parking space. Elevator calls may be scheduled after a threshold set based on the walking time.

[0073] At 410, controlling the elevator system may include controlling the stopping of one or more elevators in one or more elevator shafts. The stopping of the elevators may be controlled based on possible new elevator car calls, causing the elevator to stop at the floor where the elevator car call is expected to arrive. In one embodiment, vehicle parking information includes an indication that a parking floor associated with at least one parking space is fully occupied. Based on this, it can be determined that there is no expected elevator car call from that floor. Therefore, it can be determined that the elevator does not stop at the fully occupied stopping floor, but instead stops at another floor with a higher probability of a new elevator car call.

[0074] At 412, it can be determined whether the parking space is associated with a predefined user or user category. If not, i.e., the parking space is a regular parking space, then at 414, a normal elevator call can be made to the floor associated with the parking space. If the parking space is associated with a predefined user or user category, then at 416, preset service preferences associated with the user or user category can be determined. At 418, elevator or elevator call priorities can be distinguished for users based on service preferences. Prioritizing elevator calls can include giving priority to previous elevator calls to serve users first. Prioritizing elevators can include reserving the entire elevator or a space within an elevator for a user. Additionally, or alternatively, at 420, service preferences can include adjusting elevator door parameters for elevator travel associated with a user category. Additionally, or alternatively, at 422, service preferences can include enabling voice control and guidance for elevator travel associated with a user category. Elevator travel can include the time from elevator call until the estimated time after the user has left the elevator. At 414, elevator calls can be made for specific users or user categories based on service preferences. Service preferences can also include destination floors for specific users or user categories, and elevator calls can include destination calls to those floors. Therefore, elevator services can be applied based on the requirements or preferences of specific users or user categories based on vehicle parking information.

[0075] This method utilizes vehicle parking information as input to elevator control, allowing this input to be considered when controlling elevator traffic and elevators. For example, elevator calling, dedicated services, and elevator traffic can be optimized based on vehicle parking information. Vehicle parking information enables the simple response to received indications of parking space occupancy associated with a user, providing enhanced elevator services to users with different needs or requirements. This method allows for the novel use of information associated with vehicle parking spaces to control elevator systems.

[0076] While the essential novel features applicable to its preferred embodiments have been shown, described, and pointed out, it should be understood that various omissions, substitutions, and changes in the form and details of the described devices and methods can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of this disclosure. For example, all combinations of those elements and / or method operations that expressly represent performing substantially the same function in substantially the same manner to achieve the same result are within the scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, it should be recognized that the structures and / or elements and / or method steps shown and / or described in conjunction with any disclosed form or embodiment can be incorporated as a general issue of design selection into any other disclosed or described or suggested form or embodiment. Moreover, in the claims, the apparatus plus function clause is intended to cover the structures described herein that perform the functions, and not only structural equivalents but also equivalent structures.

[0077] The applicant therefore independently discloses each individual feature described herein, as well as any combination of two or more such features, to a certain extent that, based on common general knowledge of those skilled in the art, such features or combinations can be implemented on the basis of this specification as a whole, regardless of whether such features or combinations of features solve any problem disclosed herein, and without limiting the scope of the claims. The applicant notes that the disclosed aspects / embodiments may consist of any such individual features or combinations of features. In view of the foregoing description, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications can be made within the scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A method for controlling an elevator system, the method comprising: Receive vehicle parking information associated with at least one parking space in a building, the vehicle parking information indicating that the at least one parking space is occupied; and Controlling the elevator system based on vehicle parking information; Determine that the at least one parking space is associated with a predefined user or user category, and Among them, the elevator control system includes elevator control systems based on predefined users or user categories; Furthermore, the elevator control system based on vehicle parking information includes controlling the elevator car's stopping in the elevator shaft based on vehicle parking information; Furthermore, controlling the elevator car's stopping includes controlling the elevator to stop at the floor with the highest probability of a new elevator being called.

2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: At least one component of the elevator system to be controlled is determined based on the location of the at least one parking space.

3. The method according to any one of claims 1-2, comprising: Vehicle parking information is used to estimate the walking time from the at least one parking space to the nearest elevator.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1-2, wherein, Elevator systems controlled based on vehicle parking information include: Vehicle parking information is used as an indication for an elevator call from the floor associated with the at least one parking space.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1-2, wherein, Elevator systems controlled based on vehicle parking information include: Elevator calls are made based on vehicle parking information.

6. The method of claim 5, further comprising: Determine the destination floor based on vehicle parking information, and Making an elevator call includes making a destination call for the desired floor.

7. The method according to claim 6, wherein, Elevator systems controlled based on predefined users or user categories include those using elevator reserved space.

8. The method according to claim 6 or 7, wherein, Elevator systems controlled based on predefined users or user categories include adjusting elevator door parameters for elevator travel associated with a specific user or user category.

9. The method according to claim 6, wherein, Elevator control systems based on predefined users or user categories include enabling at least one of voice control or voice guidance for elevator travel related to the user or user category.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1-2, wherein, The vehicle parking information indicates the full occupancy of the parking floor associated with the at least one parking space, and wherein controlling the elevator system based on the vehicle parking information includes: Using vehicle parking information as an indication, the floor associated with the at least one parking space is not expected to have elevator passenger traffic.

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein, The elevator control system based on vehicle parking information includes controlling the elevator car to stop at a different floor location than the floor associated with the at least one parking space.

12. The method according to any one of claims 1-2, wherein, Vehicle parking information indicates a high arrival rate of vehicles to a specific floor in a building, and wherein the method further includes: When controlling the elevator system, the high arrival rate of vehicles to specific floors should be taken into account.

13. An apparatus for controlling an elevator system, the apparatus comprising: A means for receiving vehicle parking information associated with at least one parking space in a building, the vehicle parking information indicating that the at least one parking space is occupied; and A device for controlling an elevator system based on vehicle parking information; Devices for determining the association of the at least one parking space with a predefined user or user category, and The device for controlling the elevator system is configured to control the elevator system based on a predefined user or user category. Furthermore, the device for controlling the elevator system based on vehicle parking information includes a configuration for controlling the elevator car's stopping in the elevator shaft based on vehicle parking information; Furthermore, the device for controlling the elevator car's stopping is configured to control the elevator to stop at the floor with the highest probability of a new elevator call.

14. The device according to claim 13, comprising: A means for determining at least one element of an elevator system to be controlled based on the location of the at least one parking space.

15. The device according to any one of claims 13-14, comprising: A device for estimating the walking time from a parking space to the nearest elevator using vehicle parking information.

16. The device according to any one of claims 13-14, wherein, The apparatus for controlling an elevator system based on vehicle parking information is configured to use vehicle parking information as an indication of an elevator call from a floor associated with the at least one parking space.

17. The device according to any one of claims 13-14, wherein, The device for controlling an elevator system based on vehicle parking information is configured to make elevator calls based on vehicle parking information.

18. The apparatus of claim 17, further comprising: A device for determining the destination floor based on vehicle parking information, and The device for making elevator calls is configured to make a destination call to the destination floor.

19. The device according to claim 18, wherein, The device for controlling the elevator system based on predefined users or user categories is configured to reserve space from the elevator.

20. The device according to any one of claims 18-19, wherein, Devices for controlling elevator systems based on predefined users or user categories are configured to adjust elevator door parameters associated with elevator travel for a specific user or user category.

21. The device according to claim 18, wherein, Devices for controlling elevator systems based on predefined users or user categories are configured to enable at least one of voice control or voice guidance for elevator travel associated with a user or user category.

22. The device according to any one of claims 13-14, wherein, The vehicle parking information indicates the complete occupancy of the parking floor associated with the at least one parking space, and wherein the means for controlling the elevator system based on the vehicle parking information is configured to use the vehicle parking information as an indication that there is no expected elevator passenger traffic on the floor associated with the at least one parking space.

23. The device according to claim 22, wherein, The device for controlling the elevator system based on vehicle parking information is configured to control the elevator car to stop at a different floor location than the floor associated with the at least one parking space.

24. The device according to any one of claims 13-14, wherein, Vehicle parking information indicates a high arrival rate of vehicles to a specific floor in a building, and wherein the device includes: A device for taking into account the high arrival rate of vehicles to a specific floor when controlling an elevator system.

25. An elevator system comprising the equipment according to any one of claims 13-24.

26. A computer program including program code, which, when executed by at least one processing unit, causes the at least one processing unit to perform the method according to any one of claims 1-12.

27. A computer-readable medium comprising a computer program, the computer program including program code that, when executed by at least one processing unit, causes the at least one processing unit to perform the method according to any one of claims 1-12.

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