Contactless elevator communication system

Abstract

The subject of the invention is a "contactless elevator communication system". A method of operating an elevator system using a contactless elevator communication system, comprising: generating a first two-dimensional sensor curtain using a first sensor curtain generating device, the first two-dimensional sensor curtain being located in front of a display showing one or more selection options; generating a second two-dimensional sensor curtain using a second sensor curtain generating device located in front of the first two-dimensional sensor curtain, the first two-dimensional sensor curtain being located between the second two-dimensional sensor curtain and the display; detecting an object in the second two-dimensional sensor curtain; determining a second curtain position of the object in the second two-dimensional sensor curtain; mapping the second curtain position of the object in the second two-dimensional sensor curtain to a selection option of the one or more selection options; and identifying on the display that the object is pointing at the selection option.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The topics disclosed herein generally relate to the field of elevator systems, and in particular to methods and devices for communicating with elevator systems via contactless interfaces. Background Technology

[0002] Elevator systems typically only generate elevator calls based on a person manually entering the call button on the wall next to the elevator group, which requires the passenger to touch the call button. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to an embodiment, a method for operating an elevator system using a contactless elevator communication system is provided. The method includes: generating a first two-dimensional sensor screen using a first sensor screen generating device, the first two-dimensional sensor screen being located in front of a display showing one or more selection options for controlling the elevator system; generating a second two-dimensional sensor screen using a second sensor screen generating device, the second two-dimensional sensor screen being located in front of the first two-dimensional sensor screen, the first two-dimensional sensor screen being located between the second two-dimensional sensor screen and the display; detecting an object in the second two-dimensional sensor screen; determining a second screen position of the object in the second two-dimensional sensor screen; mapping the second screen position of the object in the second two-dimensional sensor screen to a selection option among the one or more selection options; and indicating on the display that the object is pointing to the selection option.

[0004] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, other embodiments may include: detecting an object in the first two-dimensional sensor screen; determining a first screen position of the object in the first two-dimensional sensor screen; mapping the first screen position of the object in the first two-dimensional sensor screen to a selection option among the one or more selection options; confirming that the selection option is correct based on the mapping of the first screen position and the second screen position to the selection option; and transmitting the selection option to a scheduler of the elevator system, wherein the scheduler is configured to command the operation of the elevator car of the elevator system according to the selection option.

[0005] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, other embodiments may also include moving the elevator car according to the selected option.

[0006] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, other embodiments may include opening the elevator car door according to the selected option.

[0007] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, other embodiments may also include closing the elevator car doors according to the selected option.

[0008] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, other embodiments may include activating an alarm for the elevator system based on the selected option.

[0009] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, other embodiments may include, prior to detecting the object in the first two-dimensional sensor screen, the method further comprising: instructing the passenger to move the object closer to the display and through the first two-dimensional sensor screen.

[0010] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, other embodiments may include identifying on the display that the object is pointing to the selection option, further including: placing a cursor on the selection option.

[0011] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, other embodiments may include identifying on the display that the object is pointing to the selection option, further including: highlighting the selection option.

[0012] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, other embodiments may include indicating on the display that the object is pointing to the selection option, further including widening the border around the selection option.

[0013] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, other embodiments may further include identifying on the display that the object is pointing to the selection option, further including: illuminating the selection option.

[0014] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, other embodiments may include indicating on the display that the object is pointing to the selection option, further including: adjusting the color of the selection option.

[0015] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, other embodiments may also include generating the first two-dimensional sensor screen using a first plurality of sensor beams.

[0016] According to another embodiment, a contactless elevator communication system is provided. The contactless elevator communication system includes: a first sensor screen generating device configured to generate a first two-dimensional sensor screen; a display located behind the two-dimensional sensor screen, the display showing one or more selection options for controlling an elevator system; a second sensor screen generating device configured to generate a second two-dimensional sensor screen located in front of the first two-dimensional sensor screen, the first two-dimensional sensor screen located between the second two-dimensional sensor screen and the display; and a contactless system controller electronically communicating with at least one of the first sensor screen generating device or the second sensor screen generating device, the contactless system controller including: a processor; and a memory including computer-executable instructions, which, when executed by the processor, cause... The processor performs operations including: generating a first two-dimensional sensor screen using a first sensor screen generating device, the first two-dimensional sensor screen being located in front of a display showing one or more selection options for controlling the elevator system; generating a second two-dimensional sensor screen using a second sensor screen generating device, the second two-dimensional sensor screen being located in front of the first two-dimensional sensor screen, the first two-dimensional sensor screen being located between the second two-dimensional sensor screen and the display; detecting an object in the second two-dimensional sensor screen; determining a second screen position of the object in the second two-dimensional sensor screen; mapping the second screen position of the object in the second two-dimensional sensor screen to a selection option among the one or more selection options; and indicating on the display that the object is pointing to the selection option.

[0017] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, other embodiments may include the operation further comprising: detecting the object in the first two-dimensional sensor screen; determining a first screen position of the object in the first two-dimensional sensor screen; mapping the first screen position of the object in the first two-dimensional sensor screen to a selection option among the one or more selection options; confirming that the selection option is correct based on the mapping of the first screen position and the second screen position to the selection option; and transmitting the selection option to the scheduler of the elevator system, wherein the scheduler is configured to command the operation of the elevator car of the elevator system according to the selection option.

[0018] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, other embodiments may also include moving the elevator car according to the selected option.

[0019] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, other embodiments may include the operation further comprising: opening the elevator car door according to the selected option.

[0020] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, other embodiments may include the operation further comprising: closing the elevator car door according to the selected option.

[0021] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, other embodiments may include the operation further comprising: activating an alarm of the elevator system according to the selected option.

[0022] According to another embodiment, a computer program product tangibly embodied on a non-transitory computer-readable medium includes instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to perform operations including: generating a first two-dimensional sensor screen using a first sensor screen generating device, the first two-dimensional sensor screen being located in front of a display showing one or more selection options for controlling the elevator system; generating a second two-dimensional sensor screen using a second sensor screen generating device, the second two-dimensional sensor screen being located in front of the first two-dimensional sensor screen, the first two-dimensional sensor screen being located between the second two-dimensional sensor screen and the display; detecting an object in the second two-dimensional sensor screen; determining a second screen position of the object in the second two-dimensional sensor screen; mapping the second screen position of the object in the second two-dimensional sensor screen to a selection option among the one or more selection options; and indicating on the display that the object is pointing to the selection option.

[0023] The technical advantages of embodiments of this disclosure include contactless communication of elevator systems using one or more sensor planes in front of a display.

[0024] Unless otherwise expressly stated, the foregoing features and elements may be combined in various combinations without exclusivity. These features and elements, and the operation therein, will become more apparent from the following description and figures. However, it should be understood that the following description and figures are intended to be illustrative, explanatory, and non-limiting in nature. Attached Figure Description

[0025] This disclosure is illustrated by way of example and is not limited to the accompanying drawings, wherein similar reference numerals indicate similar elements.

[0026] Figure 1 This is an illustrative description of elevator systems that can be implemented using various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0027] Figure 2 A schematic diagram illustrating an elevator calling system for generating elevator calls according to a disclosed embodiment is provided.

[0028] Figure 3 This describes the supply according to the disclosed embodiments. Figure 2 An exploded diagram of a contactless elevator communication system used in elevator call systems.

[0029] Figure 4 This describes the embodiments according to the disclosure. Figure 3 A side view of a contactless elevator communication system; and

[0030] Figure 5 This is a flowchart of a method for operating an elevator system using a contactless elevator communication system according to a disclosed embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0031] Elevator systems typically generate elevator calls based on manual input via a call button on the wall next to the elevator group, requiring passengers to touch the call button. The spread of viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens has increased the desire to provide contactless systems whenever possible. The embodiments disclosed herein aim to provide a contactless elevator communication system that is both accurate and easy to use.

[0032] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an elevator system 101, which includes an elevator car 103, a counterweight 105, a tension member 107, guide rails 109, a machine 111, a position reference system 113, and a controller 115. The elevator car 103 and the counterweight 105 are connected to each other via the tension member 107. The tension member 107 may include or be configured as, for example, ropes, cables, and / or coated steel strips. The counterweight 105 is configured to balance the load of the elevator car 103 and is configured to facilitate simultaneous and opposite movement of the elevator car 103 within the elevator shaft 117 and along the guide rails 109 relative to the counterweight 105.

[0033] Tension member 107 engages machine 111, which is part of the overhead structure of elevator system 101. Machine 111 is configured to control movement between elevator car 103 and counterweight 105. Position reference system 113 may be mounted on a fixed portion at the top of elevator shaft 117, such as on supports or guide rails, and position reference system 113 may be configured to provide a position signal relating to the position of elevator car 103 within elevator shaft 117. In other embodiments, position reference system 113 may be directly mounted to a moving component of machine 111 or may be located in other locations and / or configurations as known in the art. As known in the art, position reference system 113 may be any device or mechanism for monitoring the position of elevator car and / or counterweight. For example, without limitation, as those skilled in the art will appreciate, position reference system 113 may be an encoder, sensor, or other system and may include speed sensing, absolute position sensing, etc.

[0034] As shown, controller 115 is located in controller room 121 of elevator shaft 117 and is configured to control the operation of elevator system 101, and particularly elevator car 103. For example, controller 115 can provide drive signals to machine 111 to control the acceleration, deceleration, leveling, stopping, etc., of elevator car 103. Controller 115 can also be configured to receive position signals from position reference system 113 or any other desired position reference device. When moving up or down along guide rail 109 within elevator shaft 117, elevator car 103 can stop at one or more floors 125 as controlled by controller 115. Although shown in controller room 121, those skilled in the art will recognize that controller 115 can be located and / or configured in other locations or positions within elevator system 101. In one embodiment, the controller can be located remotely or in the cloud.

[0035] Machine 111 may include a motor or similar drive mechanism. According to the disclosed embodiments, machine 111 is configured to include an electrically driven motor. The power supply for the motor can be any power source, including the power grid, which is supplied to the motor in conjunction with other components. Machine 111 may include a traction sheave that transmits force to the tension member 107 to move the elevator car 103 within the elevator shaft 117.

[0036] Although a rope system including tension member 107 has been shown and described, elevator systems employing other methods and mechanisms for moving the elevator car within the elevator shaft can adopt embodiments of this disclosure. For example, embodiments can be adopted in cordless elevator systems that use linear motors or wheel chocks to transmit motion to the elevator car. Embodiments can also be adopted in cordless elevator systems that use hydraulic lifts to transmit motion to the elevator car. Figure 1 These are non-restrictive examples presented merely for illustrative and explanatory purposes.

[0037] In other embodiments, the system includes a transport system for moving passengers between floors and / or along a single floor. Such a transport system may include escalators, passenger transport vehicles, etc. Therefore, the embodiments described herein are not limited to, for example... Figure 1 The elevator system shown herein is an elevator system. In one example, the embodiments disclosed herein may be a suitable conveying system such as elevator system 101 and a conveying device of a conveying system such as elevator car 103 of elevator system 101. In another example, the embodiments disclosed herein may be a suitable conveying system such as escalator system and a conveying device of a conveying system such as moving stairs of escalator system.

[0038] Elevator system 101 also includes one or more elevator doors 104. Elevator doors 104 can be integrally attached to elevator car 103. Additional elevator doors 104 may also be present on landings 125 of elevator system 101 (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 2 ).

[0039] Continue to refer to Figure 1 In this case, now refer to Figure 2 According to embodiments of this disclosure, an elevator call system 100 is described. It should be appreciated that although a particular system is defined separately in the schematic block diagram, each or any system within the system can be otherwise combined or separated by means of hardware and / or software.

[0040] like Figure 2 As described herein, the elevator call system 100 may be located within building 102 and may include one or more individual elevator systems 101 organized in elevator groups 112 at one or more floors 125 (i.e., floors of building 102). Of course, although a single elevator system 101 is described in a single elevator group 112, the elevator group 112 may include any number of elevator systems 101 and there may be one or more elevator groups 112. Figure 2 The elevator system 101 described herein can be a single-story elevator system (e.g., one elevator car 103) or a double-story elevator system (e.g., two stacked elevator cars 103). Figure 2The elevator system 101 includes an elevator car 103. The elevator car 103 can serve any number of floors 125.

[0041] The elevator call system 100 may include a contactless elevator communication system 200, a dispatcher 350, and an elevator system 101. It should be appreciated that although the dispatcher 350 is defined separately in the schematic block diagram, the dispatcher 350 may be integrated into the controller 115 of the elevator system 101 or any other device by means of hardware and / or software.

[0042] The contactless elevator communication system 200 can be an external elevator call device 200a located on the floor 125 of a building 102 near elevator group 112, on the exterior of the elevator car 103. The elevator call device 200a is configured to transmit an elevator call 380 to the dispatcher 350 as requested by passenger 190. The elevator call 380 can be an upward or downward call. Alternatively, the contactless elevator communication system 200 can be an external elevator call device 200a located on the floor 125 of a building 102 near elevator group 112. The contactless elevator communication system 200 can also be an elevator destination input device 200b located inside the elevator car 103. The elevator destination input device 200b is configured to transmit a requested destination 382 for the elevator car 103 to the dispatcher 350 as requested by passenger 190. An elevator call device 200a located outside the elevator car 103 on a floor 125 in a building 102 near elevator group 112 can also be used as an elevator destination input device, which is configured to transmit the requested destination 382 for elevator car 103 to the dispatcher 350 as requested by passenger 190.

[0043] The contactless elevator communication system 200 can also be configured to generate control commands 384 for specific control of the elevator system 101, such as, for example, keeping the elevator door 104 open, closing the elevator door 104, activating an alarm on the elevator system 101, or any other elevator control commands known to those skilled in the art.

[0044] Controller 115 is configured to control and coordinate the operation of elevator system 101. Controller 115 may be an electronic controller including processor 152 and associated memory 154, the associated memory 154 including computer-executable instructions that, when executed by processor 152, cause processor 152 to perform various operations. Processor 152 may be a single-processor or multi-processor system of any architecture, including homogeneous or heterogeneous field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), central processing units (CPUs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), digital signal processors (DSPs), or graphics processing units (GPUs). Memory 154 may be, but is not limited to, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), or other electronic, optical, magnetic, or any other computer-readable medium.

[0045] The dispatcher 350 is configured to control and coordinate the operation of one or more elevator systems 101 in one or more elevator groups 112. The dispatcher 350 may be an electronic controller including a processor 352 and an associated memory 354, the associated memory 354 including computer-executable instructions that, when executed by the processor 352, cause the processor 352 to perform various operations. The processor 352 may be a single-processor or multi-processor system of any architecture, including homogeneous or heterogeneous field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), central processing units (CPUs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), digital signal processors (DSPs), or graphics processing units (GPUs). The memory 354 may be, but is not limited to, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), or other electronic, optical, magnetic, or any other computer-readable medium.

[0046] Controller 115 can be local, remote, or cloud-based. Scheduler 350 can be local, remote, or cloud-based. Scheduler 350 communicates with controller 115 of each elevator system 101. Scheduler 350 can be "group" software configured to control elevator system 101.

[0047] The dispatcher 350 communicates with the contactless elevator communication system 200. The dispatcher 350 is configured to receive elevator calls 380, control commands 384, and / or requested destinations 382 transmitted from the contactless elevator communication system 200. The dispatcher 350 is configured to manage elevator calls 380, control commands 384, and / or requested destinations 382 from the contactless elevator communication system 200, and then command one or more elevator systems 101 to respond accordingly to the elevator calls 380, control commands 384, and / or requested destinations 382.

[0048] Continue to refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 In this case, now refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 According to the disclosed embodiments, Figure 3 The diagram illustrates an exploded view of the contactless elevator communication system 200 and... Figure 4 The image shows a side view of the contactless elevator communication system 200. Figure 3 In the process, the contactless elevator communication system 200 is decomposed along line N1 perpendicular to the inner wall 106 of the elevator car 103. Regarding... Figure 3 and Figure 4 The contactless elevator communication system 200 under discussion can be Figure 2 The elevator destination input device 200b. Of course, although regarding... Figure 3 and Figure 4 The contactless elevator communication system 200 discussed is installed in the elevator car 103 as an elevator destination input device 200b. However, the embodiments disclosed herein are also applicable to contactless elevator communication systems 200 installed outside the elevator car 103 in the elevator lobby near the elevator group 112, such as, for example... Figure 2 Elevator call device 200a or remote elevator call device (e.g., safety revolving door).

[0049] The contactless elevator communication system 200 includes a first contactless sensor 210a. The contactless elevator communication system 200 may also include a second contactless sensor 210b. As further discussed herein, while only the first contactless sensor 210a is required for contactless functionality, the second contactless sensor 210b can be added to improve the accuracy of the contactless elevator communication system 200.

[0050] The contactless elevator communication system 200 includes a display 250 configured to show multiple selection options 251 for controlling the elevator system 101. The selection options 251 will interact with... Figure 2 This relates to elevator call 380, control command 384, and / or requested destination 382. When passenger 190 selects selection option 251, as further discussed herein, a [process / function] will be generated. Figure 2 At least one of elevator call 380, control command 384 and / or requested destination 382.

[0051] Selection option 251 may include destination option 252 and elevator control 254. Destination option 252 displays a floor number, but may also be configured as an up or down arrow. Display 250 may be configured to display destination option 252 for passenger 190 to select and enter a requested destination 382. Display 250 may also be configured to display elevator control 254 for passenger 190 to select and control elevator car 103, such as, for example, door opening control, door closing control, alarm control, or any other elevator control known to those skilled in the art. Display 250 may be a static display, a dynamic display, or any combination thereof. A static display may include signs, stickers, placards, backlit signs, or any other similar display known to those skilled in the art. A dynamic display is capable of changing the content on the display. A static display may include a computer monitor, LCD display, LED display, OLED display, or any other similar display known to those skilled in the art.

[0052] The display 250 is mounted on the inner wall 106 of the elevator car 103, in the elevator lobby near the elevator group 112, or on a remote elevator call device (e.g., a safety revolving door). The display 250 is located between the first contactless sensor 210a and the inner wall 106. The first contactless sensor 210a is located between the second contactless sensor 210b and the display 250.

[0053] The first non-contact sensor 210a includes a first sensor screen generating device 212a, which is configured to generate a first two-dimensional sensor screen 220a using a first plurality of sensor beams 222a or a single sensor beam (not described). The first sensor screen generating device 212a may be a 2D reflective IR laser sensor, a beam-blocking sensor utilizing visible or infrared lasers, a beam-blocking sensor utilizing visible or infrared light-emitting diodes (LEDs), a time-of-flight sensor utilizing multiple static lasers, a time-of-flight sensor utilizing one or more dynamic / scanning lasers, a time-of-flight sensor utilizing visible or infrared LEDs, a triangulation sensor using visible or infrared lasers, a time-of-flight sensor utilizing ultrasound, a millimeter-wave radar sensor, or any other similar device known to those skilled in the art. The first sensor screen generating device 212a may or may not require a reflective element 270a positioned opposite it. For example, a beam-blocking sensor utilizing visible or infrared lasers and a beam-blocking sensor utilizing visible or infrared LEDs may require a reflective element 270a.

[0054] The first two-dimensional sensor screen 220a may be planar and oriented approximately parallel to the inner wall 106 of the display 250 and / or the elevator car 103. The first two-dimensional sensor screen 220a may be generated along a first x-axis 224a and a first y-axis 226a. The first y-axis 226a may be approximately perpendicular to the first x-axis 224a, but does not need to be perpendicular.

[0055] The second contactless sensor 210b includes a second sensor screen generating device 212b, which is configured to generate a second two-dimensional sensor screen 220b using a second plurality of sensor beams 222b or a single sensor beam (not described). The second sensor screen generating device 212b may be a 2D reflective IR laser sensor, a beam-blocking sensor utilizing visible or infrared lasers, a beam-blocking sensor utilizing visible or infrared LEDs, a time-of-flight sensor utilizing multiple static lasers, a time-of-flight sensor utilizing one or more dynamic / scanning lasers, a time-of-flight sensor utilizing visible or infrared LEDs, a triangulation sensor using visible or infrared lasers, a time-of-flight sensor utilizing ultrasound, a millimeter-wave radar sensor, or any other similar device known to those skilled in the art. The second sensor screen generating device 212b may or may not require a reflective element 270b positioned opposite it. For example, a beam-blocking sensor utilizing visible or infrared lasers and a beam-blocking sensor utilizing visible or infrared LEDs may require a reflective element 270b.

[0056] The second two-dimensional sensor screen 220b may be planar and oriented approximately parallel to the first two-dimensional sensor screen 220a. The second two-dimensional sensor screen 220b may be planar and oriented approximately parallel to the inner wall 106 of the display 250 and / or the elevator car 103. The second two-dimensional sensor screen 220b may be generated along a second x-axis 224b and a second y-axis 226b. The second y-axis 226b may be approximately perpendicular to the second x-axis 224b, but does not need to be perpendicular.

[0057] The first two-dimensional sensor screen 220a can be positioned opposite and spaced apart from the display 250. For example... Figure 4 As described above, the first two-dimensional sensor screen 220a can be located at a first distance D1 from the display 250. The second two-dimensional sensor screen 220b can be positioned opposite and spaced apart from the first two-dimensional sensor screen 220a. Figure 4 As described herein, the second two-dimensional sensor screen 220b can be located at a second distance D2 from the first two-dimensional sensor screen 220a.

[0058] The first sensor screen generating device 212a can be attached to the inner wall 106 or to the attachment point 260 on the display 250, or can be adjacent to the display 250. For example... Figure 4 As described herein, the second sensor curtain generating device 212b can be attached to the first sensor curtain generating device 212a. Alternatively, the first sensor curtain generating device 212a and the second sensor curtain generating device 212b can be attached to the inner wall 106 directly or via a bracket 280 or a similar attachment mechanism known to those skilled in the art.

[0059] Although the first sensor curtain generating device 212a is in Figure 3 and Figure 4 The diagram describes generating the first plurality of sensor beams 222a in a downward direction 292, but the first sensor curtain generating device 212a can be configured to generate the first plurality of sensor beams 222a in any direction. For example, the first sensor curtain generating device 212a can be configured to generate the first plurality of sensor beams 222a in a downward direction 292, in an upward direction 294 opposite to the downward direction 292, in a first transverse direction 296 perpendicular to the downward direction 292 and the upward direction 294, or in a second transverse direction 298 opposite to the first transverse direction 296.

[0060] Although the second sensor curtain generating device 212b is in Figure 3 and Figure 4 The diagram describes generating a second plurality of sensor beams 222b in a downward direction 292; however, the second sensor curtain generating device 212b can be configured to generate the second plurality of sensor beams 222b in any direction. For example, the second sensor curtain generating device 212b can be configured to generate the second plurality of sensor beams 222b in a downward direction 292, in an upward direction 294 opposite to the downward direction 292, in a first transverse direction 296 perpendicular to both the downward direction 292 and the upward direction 294, or in a second transverse direction 298 opposite to the first transverse direction 296.

[0061] Additionally, the second sensor curtain generating device 212b can generate a second plurality of sensor beams 222b in the same direction as the first plurality of sensor beams 222a. In an alternative embodiment, the second sensor curtain generating device 212b can generate a second plurality of sensor beams 222b in a different direction than the first plurality of sensor beams 222a.

[0062] like Figure 4As described herein, the contactless elevator communication system 200 may include a contactless system controller 240 that electronically communicates with the first contactless sensor 210a. The contactless system controller 240 is configured to control and coordinate the operation of the contactless elevator communication system 200.

[0063] The contactless system controller 240 may be an electronic controller including a processor 242 and an associated memory 244, the associated memory 244 including computer-executable instructions that, when executed by the processor 242, cause the processor 242 to perform various operations. The processor 242 may be, but is not limited to, any single-processor or multi-processor system of a wide variety of possible architectures, including homogeneous or heterogeneous field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), central processing units (CPUs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), digital signal processors (DSPs), or graphics processing units (GPUs). The memory 244 may be, but is not limited to, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), or other electronic, optical, magnetic, or any other computer-readable medium.

[0064] The contactless system controller 240 can be configured to control the operation of the first contactless sensor 210a. The first contactless sensor 210a is configured to detect when an object 192 is placed within the first two-dimensional sensor screen 220a. The first contactless sensor 210a can be configured to detect when the object 192 is placed within the first two-dimensional sensor screen 220a by detecting when at least one of the first plurality of sensor beams 222a is blocked. As illustrated, the object 192 can be a finger of the passenger 190, but it can be any object waved by the passenger 190, such as, for example, an umbrella, glove, pen, ruler, indicator, elbow, foot, or any other object known to those skilled in the art.

[0065] When object 192 is placed into the first two-dimensional sensor screen 220a, the first contactless sensor 210a is configured to determine a first x-coordinate 228a in the first x-axis 224a and a first y-coordinate 230a in the first y-axis 226a of the first two-dimensional sensor screen 220a, wherein object 192 is placed into the first two-dimensional sensor screen 220a. The first x-coordinate 228a in the first x-axis 224a and the first y-coordinate 230a in the first y-axis 226a are mapped to selection option 251 on display 250. Figure 3 As explained, selection option 251 can be directly following the first x-coordinate 228a of the first x-axis 224a and the first y-coordinate 230a of the first y-axis 226a, such that passenger 190 is pointing to their desired selection option 251. For example, the desired selection option 251 indicated by the first x-coordinate 228a and the first y-coordinate 230a is... Figure 3 The second floor 232. Selecting the second floor 232 will transmit the requested destination 382 to the scheduler 350 to move the elevator car 103 to the second floor.

[0066] The contactless system controller 240 can electronically communicate with the second contactless sensor 210b. The contactless system controller 240 can be configured to control the operation of the second contactless sensor 210b. The second contactless sensor 210b is configured to detect when the object 192 is placed within the second two-dimensional sensor screen 220b. The second contactless sensor 210b can be configured to detect when the object 192 is placed within the second two-dimensional sensor screen 220b by detecting when at least one of the second plurality of sensor beams 222b is blocked.

[0067] Of course, although a contactless system controller 240 for controlling both the first contactless sensor 210a and the second contactless sensor 210b is described and illustrated herein, the embodiments described herein are also applicable to the first contactless sensor 210a and the second contactless sensor 210b having their own dedicated contactless system controller 240.

[0068] When object 192 is placed into the second two-dimensional sensor screen 220b, the second contactless sensor 210b is configured to determine a second x-coordinate 228b in the second x-axis 224b and a second y-coordinate 230b in the second y-axis 226b of the second two-dimensional sensor screen 220b, wherein object 192 is placed into the second two-dimensional sensor screen 220b. The second x-coordinate 228b in the second x-axis 224b and the second y-coordinate 230b in the second y-axis 226b are mapped to a selection option 251 on the display 250. The selection option 251 can be directly following the second x-coordinate 228b in the second x-axis 224b and the second y-coordinate 230b in the second y-axis 226b, such that passenger 190 is pointing to their desired selection option 251. For example, as Figure 3 As described above, the desired selection option 251, indicated by the second x-coordinate 228b and the second y-coordinate 230b, is the second floor 232. The selection of the second floor 232 will transmit the requested destination 382 to the scheduler 350 to move the elevator car 103 to the second floor.

[0069] As mentioned above, while only the first contactless sensor 210a is required for contactless functionality, the second contactless sensor 210b provides additional functionality and benefits. For example, the first contactless sensor 210a can be used to confirm the selection option 251 mapped by the second contactless sensor 210b, or the second contactless sensor 210b can be used to confirm the selection option 251 mapped by the first contactless sensor 210.

[0070] Alternatively, a second contactless sensor 210 can be used to trigger a display 250 to highlight the selection option 251 mapped by the second contactless sensor 210b, thus indicating where the passenger 190 is pointing, and then the first contactless sensor 210a can be used to confirm the mapped selection option 251 as the person moves the object 192 closer to the display 250. As Figure 2 As explained, option 251 can be highlighted by thickening the border 257 around the option 251 that passenger 190 is pointing to, brightening the background 258 of option 251 that passenger 190 is pointing to, or by giving the background 258 of option 251 that passenger 190 is pointing to a different color than other options 251.

[0071] Alternatively, the second contactless sensor 210 can be used to trigger the display 250 to show the cursor 259 mapped by the second contactless sensor 210b, thereby indicating what selection option 251 the passenger 190 is pointing to, and then the first contactless sensor 210a can be used to confirm the selection option 251 mapped when the person moves the object 192 closer to the display 250.

[0072] The contactless system controller 240 can communicate electronically with the display 250. The contactless system controller 240 can be configured to control the operation of the display 250.

[0073] Display 250 can show instruction 256 to passenger 190. For example, display instruction 256 can state "point to desired selection". Display instruction 256 can be adjusted based on the position of object 192 relative to the first two-dimensional sensor screen 220a and the second two-dimensional sensor screen 220b. For example, if object 192 is detected projected through the second two-dimensional sensor screen 220b but has not yet touched the first two-dimensional sensor screen 220a, display instruction 256 can state "move closer to confirm selection" to prompt passenger 190 to block the first two-dimensional sensor screen 220a with object 192 to confirm their selection from the second two-dimensional sensor screen 220b.

[0074] Continue to refer to Figure 1-4 In this case, now refer to Figure 5 According to the disclosed embodiments, a flowchart of a method 800 for operating an elevator system 101 using a contactless elevator communication system 200 is described. In the embodiments, method 800 is performed by the contactless elevator communication system 200 and / or the elevator call system 100. More specifically, method 800 may be performed by a contactless system controller 240.

[0075] At frame 804, a first two-dimensional sensor screen 220a is generated using a first sensor screen generating device 212a. The first two-dimensional sensor screen 220a is located in front of a display 250 showing one or more selection options 251 for controlling the elevator system 101. The first two-dimensional sensor screen 220a can be generated using a first plurality of sensor beams 222a.

[0076] At frame 806, a second two-dimensional sensor screen 220b is generated using a second sensor screen generation device 212b. The second two-dimensional sensor screen 220b is located in front of the first two-dimensional sensor screen 220a. The first two-dimensional sensor screen 220a is located between the second two-dimensional sensor screen 220b and the display 250.

[0077] At box 808, object 192 is detected in the second two-dimensional sensor screen 220b. At box 810, the second screen position of object 192 in the second two-dimensional sensor screen 220b is determined. The second screen position of object 192 may include a second x-coordinate 228b in the second x-axis 224b and a second y-coordinate 230b in the second y-axis 226b of the second two-dimensional sensor screen 220b.

[0078] At box 812, the second screen position of object 192 in the second two-dimensional sensor screen 220b is mapped to one or more selection options 251.

[0079] At box 814, on display 250, it is indicated that object 192 is pointing to the selection option 251.

[0080] Method 800 may further include detecting object 192 in a first two-dimensional sensor screen 220a. Object 192 can be detected by detecting an obstruction in a first plurality of sensor beams 222a. A first screen position of object 192 is determined in the first two-dimensional sensor screen 220a. The first screen position of object 192 may include a first x-coordinate 228a in a first x-axis 224a and a first y-coordinate 230a in a first y-axis 226a of the first two-dimensional sensor screen 220a. The first screen position of object 192 in the first two-dimensional sensor screen 220a is mapped to a selection option 251 in one or more selection options 251. Based on the mapping of the first screen position and the second screen position to the selection option 251, the selection option 251 can be confirmed to be correct.

[0081] Method 800 may further include transmitting the selection option 251 to a scheduler 350 of elevator system 101. The scheduler 350 is configured to command the operation of elevator car 103 of elevator system 101 according to the selection option 251, which may include moving elevator car 103 according to the selection option 251, opening elevator door 104 of elevator car 103 according to the selection option 251, closing elevator door 104 of elevator car 103 according to the selection option 251, and / or activating an alarm of elevator system 101 according to the selection option 251.

[0082] Method 800 may further include instructing passenger 190 to move object 192 closer to display 250 and through the first two-dimensional sensor screen 220a before object 192 is detected in the first two-dimensional sensor screen 220a. Passenger 190 may be instructed by means of a message displayed on display 250 as instruction 256. Passenger 190 may also be instructed by means of voice commands via display 250 or a speaker (not shown) in elevator car 103.

[0083] At box 814, the object 192 is identified on display 250 as pointing to the selection option 251 by placing the cursor 259 on the selection option 251, highlighting the selection option 251, widening the border 257 around the selection option 251, illuminating the selection option 251, and / or adjusting the color of the selection option 251.

[0084] Although the above descriptions have been presented in a specific order Figure 5 The procedure is as described, but it should be recognized that the order of steps may be changed unless otherwise specifically required in the appended claims.

[0085] As described above, embodiments can take the form of processes implemented by a processor and means, such as a processor, for implementing those processes. Embodiments can also take the form of computer program code (e.g., a computer program product) containing instructions contained in a tangible medium (e.g., a non-transitory computer-readable medium) such as a floppy disk, CD-ROM, hard disk, or any other non-transitory computer-readable medium, wherein when the computer program code is loaded into and executed by the computer, the computer becomes means for implementing the embodiments. Embodiments can also take the form of computer program code, whether stored in a storage medium, loaded into and / or executed by a computer, or transmitted via a transmission medium (e.g., via wires or cables, via optical fibers, or via electromagnetic radiation), wherein when the computer program code is loaded into and executed by the computer, the computer becomes means for implementing exemplary embodiments. When executed on a general-purpose microprocessor, computer program code segments configure the microprocessor to create specific logic circuits.

[0086] The term “approximately” is intended to include the degree of error associated with measurements based on manufacturing tolerances and / or specific quantities of the equipment available at the time of application.

[0087] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be a limitation of this disclosure. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” as used herein are intended to include the plural forms as well. It will be further understood that the terms “comprising” and / or “including” as used in this specification specify the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0088] Those skilled in the art will recognize that various exemplary embodiments have been shown and described herein, each with certain features in a particular embodiment, but this disclosure is not intended to be limiting. Rather, this disclosure may be modified to incorporate any number of variations, alterations, substitutions, combinations, sub-combinations, or equivalent arrangements not previously described but commensurate with the scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, while various embodiments of this disclosure have been described, it is to be understood that aspects of this disclosure may include only some of the described embodiments. Therefore, this disclosure should not be construed as being limited by the foregoing description, but rather by the scope of the appended claims only.

Claims

1. A method for operating an elevator system using a contactless elevator communication system, the method comprising: A first two-dimensional sensor screen is generated using a first sensor screen generating device, the first two-dimensional sensor screen being located in front of a display showing one or more selection options for controlling the elevator system; A second two-dimensional sensor screen is generated using a second sensor screen generating device. The second two-dimensional sensor screen is located in front of the first two-dimensional sensor screen, and the first two-dimensional sensor screen is located between the second two-dimensional sensor screen and the display. An object was detected in the second two-dimensional sensor screen; Determine the position of the object in the second screen of the second two-dimensional sensor screen; Map the object's position in the second screen of the second two-dimensional sensor screen to the selection option in one or more selection options; The display shows that the object is pointing to the selection option; as well as The selection option is transmitted to the elevator system's dispatcher, wherein the dispatcher is configured to command the operation of the elevator car of the elevator system according to the selection option.

2. The method of claim 1, further comprising: The object was detected in the first two-dimensional sensor screen; Determine the position of the object in the first screen of the first two-dimensional sensor screen; Map the object's position in the first screen of the first two-dimensional sensor screen to the selection option among the one or more selection options; The selection option is confirmed to be correct based on the mapping of the first and second scene positions to the selection option.

3. The method of claim 2, further comprising: Move the elevator car according to the selected option.

4. The method of claim 2, further comprising: Open the elevator car door according to the selected option.

5. The method of claim 2, further comprising: Close the elevator car door according to the selected option.

6. The method of claim 2, further comprising: Activate the elevator system alarm according to the selected option.

7. The method of claim 2, wherein, Before detecting the object in the first two-dimensional sensor screen, the method further includes: The passenger is instructed to move the object closer to the display and through the first two-dimensional sensor screen.

8. The method of claim 1, wherein, The indication on the display that the object is pointing to the selection option further includes: Place the cursor on the selected option.

9. The method of claim 1, wherein, The indication on the display that the object is pointing to the selection option further includes: The selected options are highlighted.

10. The method of claim 1, wherein, The indication on the display that the object is pointing to the selection option further includes: Widen the border surrounding the selected option.

11. The method of claim 1, wherein, The indication on the display that the object is pointing to the selection option further includes: Illuminate the selected option.

12. The method of claim 1, wherein, The indication on the display that the object is pointing to the selection option further includes: Adjust the color of the selected option.

13. The method of claim 1, wherein, The first two-dimensional sensor screen is generated using a first plurality of sensor beams.

14. A contactless elevator communication system, the contactless elevator communication system comprising: A first sensor screen generating device, configured to generate a first two-dimensional sensor screen; A display located behind the two-dimensional sensor screen shows one or more selection options for controlling the elevator system; A second sensor screen generating device is configured to generate a second two-dimensional sensor screen, which is located in front of a first two-dimensional sensor screen, and the first two-dimensional sensor screen is located between the second two-dimensional sensor screen and the display. A contactless system controller, which electronically communicates with at least one of the first sensor curtain generating device or the second sensor curtain generating device, the contactless system controller comprising: Processor; and The memory includes computer-executable instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to perform operations, including: A first two-dimensional sensor screen is generated using a first sensor screen generating device, the first two-dimensional sensor screen being located in front of a display showing one or more selection options for controlling the elevator system; A second two-dimensional sensor screen is generated using a second sensor screen generating device. The second two-dimensional sensor screen is located in front of the first two-dimensional sensor screen, and the first two-dimensional sensor screen is located between the second two-dimensional sensor screen and the display. An object was detected in the second two-dimensional sensor screen; Determine the position of the object in the second screen of the second two-dimensional sensor screen; Map the object's position in the second screen of the second two-dimensional sensor screen to the selection option in one or more selection options; The display shows that the object is pointing to the selection option; and The selection option is transmitted to the elevator system's dispatcher, wherein the dispatcher is configured to command the operation of the elevator car of the elevator system according to the selection option.

15. The contactless elevator communication system as described in claim 14, wherein, The operation further includes: The object was detected in the first two-dimensional sensor screen; Determine the position of the object in the first screen of the first two-dimensional sensor screen; Map the object's position in the first screen of the first two-dimensional sensor screen to the selection option among the one or more selection options; The selection option is confirmed to be correct based on the mapping of the first and second scene positions to the selection option.

16. The contactless elevator communication system as described in claim 15, wherein, The operation further includes: Move the elevator car according to the selected option.

17. The contactless elevator communication system as described in claim 15, wherein, The operation further includes: Open the elevator car door according to the selected option.

18. The contactless elevator communication system as described in claim 15, wherein, The operation further includes: Close the elevator car door according to the selected option.

19. The contactless elevator communication system as described in claim 15, wherein, The operation further includes: Activate the elevator system alarm according to the selected option.

20. A computer program product tangibly embodied on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the computer program product comprising instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to perform operations, the operations including: A first two-dimensional sensor screen is generated using a first sensor screen generating device, the first two-dimensional sensor screen being located in front of a display showing one or more selection options for controlling the elevator system; A second two-dimensional sensor screen is generated using a second sensor screen generating device. The second two-dimensional sensor screen is located in front of the first two-dimensional sensor screen, and the first two-dimensional sensor screen is located between the second two-dimensional sensor screen and the display. An object was detected in the second two-dimensional sensor screen; Determine the position of the object in the second screen of the second two-dimensional sensor screen; Map the object's position in the second screen of the second two-dimensional sensor screen to the selection option in one or more selection options; as well as The display shows that the object is pointing to the selection option; as well as The selection option is transmitted to the elevator system's dispatcher, wherein the dispatcher is configured to command the operation of the elevator car of the elevator system according to the selection option.

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