Method and apparatus for allocating elevators

Abstract

According to an aspect, a method and an arrangement for allocating an elevator of an elevator system are provided. In the solution, image data associated with an area associated with a plurality of elevators is obtained. An automated guided vehicle is detected on the basis of the image data. Parameter data associated with the automated guided vehicle is determined on the basis of the image data. Information indicating a destination floor of the automated guided vehicle is obtained, and an elevator car is allocated for the automated guided vehicle by taking into account at least the parameter data and the destination floor. Finally, information identifying the allocated elevator car is caused to be transmitted to the automated guided vehicle.

Description

BACKGROUND

[0001] Elevator calls are typically made when a passenger arrives at an elevator lobby and presses a landing call button or makes a destination call. Elevator calls can also be made before arriving in the vicinity of an elevator, e.g. a destination call.

[0002] In addition to people, elevators can also be used to transport various automatically operated vehicles that can navigate automatically within a building. Control systems can be associated with these automatically operated vehicles. In order for the automatically operated vehicles to be able to utilize the elevators of an elevator system, it can be necessary to implement integration between the control systems and the elevator system. This can be a laborious task and can unnecessarily complicate the operation of the elevator system. Therefore, an alternative solution for the automatically operated vehicles to utilize the elevators of an elevator system would be desirable. SUMMARY

[0003] According to a first aspect, a method for allocating an elevator of an elevator system is provided. The method comprises obtaining image data associated with an area associated with a plurality of elevators; detecting an automatically guided vehicle based on the image data; determining parameter data associated with the automatically guided vehicle based on the image data; obtaining information indicative of a destination floor of the automatically guided vehicle; allocating an elevator car for the automatically guided vehicle by taking into account at least the parameter data and the destination floor; and transmitting information identifying the allocated elevator car to the automatically guided vehicle.

[0004] In an implementation form of the first aspect, the parameter data comprises at least one of a size and a moving speed of the automatically guided vehicle.

[0005] In an implementation form of the first aspect, obtaining information indicative of a destination floor of the automatically guided vehicle comprises obtaining information indicative of a destination floor of the automatically guided vehicle based on data wirelessly transmitted from the automatically guided vehicle.

[0006] In an implementation form of the first aspect, obtaining information indicative of a destination floor of the automatically guided vehicle comprises obtaining information indicative of a destination floor of the automatically guided vehicle based on the image data.

[0007] In an implementation form of the first aspect, obtaining information indicative of a destination floor of the automatically guided vehicle based on the image data comprises obtaining information indicative of a destination floor of the automatically guided vehicle by recognizing information indicative of a destination floor from a display of the automatically guided vehicle based on the image data.

[0008] In an implementation form of the first aspect, transmitting information identifying the allocated elevator car to the automatically guided vehicle comprises transmitting information identifying the allocated elevator car to the automatically guided vehicle using a display associated with the elevator system.

[0009] In an implementation form of the first aspect, obtaining image data associated with an area associated with a plurality of elevators comprises obtaining image data from at least one camera.

[0010] According to a second aspect, there is provided an apparatus for allocating an elevator of an elevator system. The apparatus comprises means for obtaining image data associated with an area associated with a plurality of elevators; means for detecting, based on the image data means, an automated guided vehicle; means for determining, based on the image data means, parameter data associated with the automated guided vehicle; means for obtaining information indicative of a destination floor of the automated guided vehicle; means for allocating an elevator car for the automated guided vehicle by taking into account at least the parameter data and the destination floor; and means for transmitting information identifying the allocated elevator car to the automated guided vehicle.

[0011] In an implementation form of the second aspect, the parameter data comprises at least one of a size and a moving speed of the automated guided vehicle.

[0012] In an implementation form of the second aspect, the means for obtaining information indicative of a destination floor of the automated guided vehicle is configured to obtain the information indicative of the destination floor of the automated guided vehicle based on data wirelessly transmitted from the automated guided vehicle.

[0013] In an implementation form of the second aspect, the means for obtaining information indicative of a destination floor of the automated guided vehicle is configured to obtain the information indicative of the destination floor of the automated guided vehicle based on the image data.

[0014] In an implementation form of the second aspect, the means for obtaining information indicative of a destination floor of the automated guided vehicle is configured to obtain the information indicative of the destination floor of the automated guided vehicle by recognizing, based on the image data, information indicative of the destination floor of a display from the automated guided vehicle.

[0015] In an implementation form of the second aspect, the means for transmitting information identifying the allocated elevator car to the automated guided vehicle is configured to transmit the information identifying the allocated elevator car to the automated guided vehicle using a display associated with the elevator system.

[0016] In an implementation form of the second aspect, the means for obtaining image data associated with an area associated with a plurality of elevators is configured to obtain the image data from at least one camera.

[0017] According to a third aspect, there is provided an elevator system comprising a plurality of elevators of the second aspect and the apparatus.

[0018] In an implementation form of the third aspect, the elevator system further comprises at least one camera configured to provide image data about an area associated with the plurality of elevators.

[0019] According to a fourth aspect, there is provided a computer program comprising program code which, when executed by at least one processing unit, causes the apparatus of the second aspect to perform the method of the first aspect.

[0020] According to a fifth aspect, there is provided a computer readable medium comprising a computer program comprising program code which, when executed by at least one processing unit, causes the apparatus of the second aspect to perform the method of the first aspect.

[0021] According to a sixth aspect, there is provided an apparatus for allocating an elevator. The apparatus comprises at least one processor and at least one memory connected to the at least one processor. The at least one memory stores program instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to: obtain image data associated with an area associated with a plurality of elevators; detect an automated guided vehicle based on the image data; determine parameter data associated with the automated guided vehicle based on the image data; obtain information indicating a destination floor of the automated guided vehicle; allocate an elevator car for the automated guided vehicle by taking into account at least the parameter data and the destination floor; and transmit information identifying the allocated elevator car to the automated guided vehicle. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0022] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the application and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the application and together with the description serve to explain the principles of the application. In the drawings:

[0023] Figure 1 A flowchart of a method for allocating an elevator according to example embodiments is shown.

[0024] Figure 2A An elevator system element associated with elevator car allocation according to example embodiments is shown.

[0025] Figure 2B An elevator system element associated with elevator car allocation according to example embodiments is shown.

[0026] Figure 3 A block diagram of an apparatus for allocating an elevator according to example embodiments is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] The following description illustrates example embodiments for allocating an elevator of an elevator system for an automated guided vehicle. The example embodiments illustrate a solution by which allocation can be implemented without integration between a control system of the automated guided vehicle and the elevator system.

[0028] The term "automated guided vehicle" refers to a movable, unmanned object that travels along a long line or wire marked on the floor, or uses radio waves, vision cameras, magnets, or lasers for navigation. In an example embodiment, the automated guided vehicle can be a fully automated operated vehicle. In another example embodiment, some operations of the automated guided vehicle can be handled by a human controller.

[0029] Figure 1 A flowchart of a method for allocating an elevator according to an example embodiment is shown.

[0030] At 100, image data associated with an area associated with a plurality of elevators is obtained. The area associated with the plurality of elevators can refer to, for example, an elevator lobby or other area near the elevators. The image data can originate from one or more cameras associated with the elevator system. Alternatively, the image data can originate from a camera system external to the elevator system.

[0031] At 102, an automated guided vehicle is detected based on the image data. The detection can be based on, for example, image recognition based on the image data. The automated guided vehicle can have a shape that is detected and recognized, or some identifying feature associated with the automated guided vehicle can be recognized based on the image data, for example, based on an identifier, such as a QR code, appearing on the automated guided vehicle.

[0032] At 104, parameter data associated with the automated guided vehicle is determined based on the image data. The parameter data can include, for example, a size and a moving speed of the automated guided vehicle. In an example embodiment, the size of the automated guided vehicle can be determined directly from the image data. In another example embodiment, the parameter data can be obtained based on, for example, an identifier appearing on the automated guided vehicle.

[0033] At 106, information indicating a destination floor of the automated guided vehicle is obtained. In an example embodiment, the information indicating the destination floor of the automated guided vehicle can be obtained based on data wirelessly transmitted from the automated guided vehicle. For example, the automated guided vehicle can transmit a radio frequency signal including an indication of the destination floor. In another example embodiment, the information indicating the destination floor of the automated guided vehicle can be obtained based on the image data. For example, the automated guided vehicle can include a display, and information displayed on the display can be determined by one or more cameras. The destination floor can be indicated in textual form on the display, for example, "to 8th floor." Alternatively or additionally, the frequency of the display can be modulated such that the destination can be determined based on the modulation.

[0034] At 108, an elevator car is assigned to the automated guided vehicle by taking into account at least the parameter data and the destination floor. Elevators in an elevator system can have different sizes, only some of which are able to accommodate an automated guided vehicle. Thus, if the parameter data comprises the size of the automated guided vehicle, the elevator system is able to determine which elevator or elevators are large enough to accommodate the automated guided vehicle. In another example embodiment, if the parameter data comprises, for example, the moving speed of the automated guided vehicle, the elevator system can be able to determine the time required for the automated guided vehicle to reach the elevator and thus take this into account when assigning an elevator car.

[0035] At 110, information identifying the assigned elevator car is caused to be transmitted to the automated guided vehicle. In an example embodiment, the information can be provided to the automated guided vehicle by at least one display associated with the elevator system. Because the automated guided vehicle can be equipped with a machine vision system, it is able to detect the information provided by the at least one display. The display can display, for example, "AGV Elevator D to 8th floor". In another example embodiment, an audible indication about the elevator assignment can be provided to the automated guided vehicle. However, in another example embodiment, the information identifying the assigned elevator car can be transmitted to the automated guided vehicle by using radio frequency transmission.

[0036] In an example embodiment, the steps discussed above can be performed by at least one device or controller associated with the elevator system, for example, an elevator controller.

[0037] Figure 2A and 2B Elements of an elevator system associated with elevator car assignment according to an example embodiment are shown. One or more of the elevator system elements can implement the methods discussed earlier in relation to Figure 1 , for example, an elevator controller 200 or another controller connected to the elevator controller 200.

[0038] An automated guided vehicle 204 can be used to carry an object or an item and deliver it to a predetermined recipient. The route taken by the automated guided vehicle 204 can require the use of one or more elevators before reaching the predetermined recipient. The automated guided vehicle 204 can have a control connection to a control system 206, but at the same time, the automated guided vehicle 204 can be equipped with the ability to navigate automatically to a set destination. The ability can comprise, for example, machine vision capabilities, radar, sound analysis capabilities, etc.

[0039] When the automated guided vehicle 204 approaches the elevators 202A-202F, means for making a destination call can be arranged, e.g. using destination operating panels (DOP) 208A-208D. However, the automated guided vehicle 204 can not have the capability to connect to the destination operating panels, and can need to implement other means for being able to make a destination call associated with the automated guided vehicle. Furthermore, in example embodiments not all elevators 202A-202F are capable of transporting the automated guided vehicle 204.

[0040] Thus, as Figure 2B illustrated, one or more cameras 212, 214 can be arranged, e.g. in the vicinity of the elevators 202A-202F. The cameras 212, 214 can be internal elements of the elevator system, or alternatively the cameras 212, 214 can be part of a camera system connected to the elevator system. Figure 2B An example is shown, where the cameras 212, 214 can be associated with the elevators 202B, 202D. For example, they can be integrated with the landing displays above the landing. In another example, the cameras can be integrated into one or more of the destination operating panels 208A-208D. Furthermore, one or more of the cameras can be standalone cameras placed in suitable locations in the elevator lobby. Furthermore, even Figure 2B While it can be shown that the cameras 212, 214 are arranged in the vicinity of the landing doors associated with the elevators, one or more of the cameras can be arranged further away from the elevators, so that the automated guided vehicle 204 can be detected earlier.

[0041] When multiple cameras 212, 214 are used, it enables providing more accurate determinations related to one or more parameters associated with the automated guided vehicle. For example, the size of the automated guided vehicle can be accurately determined based on the image data obtained from the cameras 212, 214. Furthermore, the speed of movement of the automated guided vehicle 204 can be determined based on the image data.

[0042] When the automated guided vehicle 204 can be detected by the cameras 212, 214, information indicative of the destination floor of the automated guided vehicle 204 can be obtained. For example, the automated guided vehicle 204 can transmit a radio frequency signal comprising an indication of the destination floor. Thus, the elevator system can comprise a receiver capable of receiving the signal transmitted by the automated guided vehicle 204. In another example embodiment, the information indicative of the destination floor of the automated guided vehicle 204 can be obtained based on image data. For example, the automated guided vehicle 204 can comprise a display, information displayed on the display can be detected by the one or more cameras 212, 214. The destination floor can be indicated in textual form on the display, e.g. "to floor 8". Alternatively or additionally, the frequency of the display can be modulated, such that the destination can be determined based on the modulation, the modulation being based on image data obtained from the cameras 212, 214. However, in another example embodiment, the automated guided vehicle 204 can provide an audible indication regarding the destination floor.

[0043] When the destination floor has been identified, the elevator controller 202 allocates an elevator car for the automated guided vehicle 204 by taking into account at least the parameter data and the destination floor. In Figure 2B In the example of Fig. 2, there are two elevators 202C, 202F, into which the automated guided vehicle 204 is suitable to be transported to the destination floor. Elevators 202A, 202B, 202D and 202E cannot be considered for allocation, as they are too small for the automated guided vehicle 204. Elevator 202F is already occupied by a group of people and thus cannot be selected. Therefore, elevator 202C is allocated for the destination call, as it has the space 210 available for the automated guided vehicle 204.

[0044] Furthermore, in another example embodiment, if the parameter data comprises, for example, the moving speed of the automated guided vehicle, the elevator system can be able to determine the time required for the automated guided vehicle to reach the elevator, and thus take this into account when allocating the elevator car.

[0045] The information identifying the assigned elevator car is communicated to the automated guided vehicle 204 so that it is transported to the destination floor. In example embodiments, the information can be provided to the automated guided vehicle 204 through at least one display associated with the elevator system. Because the automated guided vehicle 204 can be equipped with a machine vision system, it is able to detect the information provided by the at least one display. The display can display, for example, "AGV Elevator D to 8th Floor." A display disposed above the door of the service elevator can provide the information. Alternatively or additionally, any other display disposed in the elevator lobby can provide the information. Alternatively or additionally, the frequency of the display can be modulated so that the automated guided vehicle 204 is able to determine the assigned elevator based on the modulation. In another example embodiment, however, the elevator system can include a speaker configured to provide an audible indication regarding the elevator assigned to the automated guided vehicle 204.

[0046] In Figure 2A and 2B example embodiments, a separate display or a display already used for other purposes, e.g., a display of a destination operating panel, can be used to provide information used by the automated guided vehicle. For example, the display can display a code, e.g., a QR code or an image, which the automated guided vehicle can later use to make a destination call. For example, there can be separate floor maps for people and for automated guided vehicles. The display can display the automated guided vehicle- related floor map after the automated guided vehicle is identified. In another example embodiment, the automated guided vehicle can request a floor map using a predetermined identifier or image. The identifier or image can also identify a common language between the automated guided vehicle and the elevator controller. In this way, the automated guided vehicle and the elevator controller can agree on a format for communicating information between the automated guided vehicle and the elevator controller. After the floor map is requested, the floor map can be provided to the automated guided vehicle, which can be able to identify the desired destination floor from the floor map and read the code or image associated with the destination floor so that the automated guided vehicle is able to later make / activate a destination call with the code or image.

[0047] In Figure 2A and 2BIn example embodiments, the automated guided vehicle can access a service tag at a particular location in the building, e.g., at a reception type location to obtain service of the elevator system. The service tag can include built-in information as a destination floor for the automated guided vehicle. In example embodiments, a simple form of the service tag is a queuing / running number or a QR code that has been associated with a destination floor in the elevator system. Then, when the automated guided vehicle wishes to make an actual destination call, the automated guided vehicle can activate the destination call in the elevator lobby with the service tag either by displaying the service tag on a display of the automated guided vehicle or by using some other means to transmit the service tag to the elevator system.

[0048] In Figure 2A and 2B example embodiments, the automated guided vehicle can be provided with an invitation, e.g., an invitation from a tenant or other building occupant. For example, the invitation can be a code, e.g., a QR code, or an image that can be understood by the elevator system. Again, the invitation can include built-in information as a destination floor for the automated guided vehicle. Then, when the automated guided vehicle wishes to make an actual destination call, the automated guided vehicle can activate the destination call in the elevator lobby with the invitation either by displaying the invitation on a display of the automated guided vehicle or by using some other means to transmit the invitation to the elevator system.

[0049] In Figure 2A and 2B example embodiments, when it is identified based on image data provided by a camera that the automated guided vehicle is located in an elevator lobby area, the elevator controller or some other controller of the elevator system can start to track whether a display of the automated guided vehicle recognizes a request or an identifier for the elevator system. The request or the identifier can also identify a common information transfer format between the automated guided vehicle and the elevator system.

[0050] In Figure 2A and 2B example embodiments, when it is identified based on image data provided by a camera that the automated guided vehicle is located in an elevator lobby area, the elevator controller or some other controller of the elevator system can activate a short distance signal, e.g., a near field communication (NFC) signal or other short distance wireless signal used between the automated guided vehicle and the elevator system. The short distance signal can then be used to guide the automated guided vehicle to an assigned elevator.

[0051] In Figure 2A and 2B example embodiments, when it is identified based on image data provided by a camera that the automated guided vehicle is located in an elevator lobby area, the elevator controller or some other controller of the elevator system can control one or more displays in the elevator lobby to display guidance information for the automated guided vehicle to reach an assigned elevator.

[0052] At least some of the embodiments discussed above can be able to identify a destination call from an automated guided vehicle and identify an elevator assigned to the automated guided vehicle in a simple manner without having to implement an expensive and complex system integration between the control system of the automated guided vehicle and the elevator system.

[0053] Figure 3 An apparatus 300 for assigning an elevator according to example embodiments is shown. The apparatus 300 can include at least one processor 302. The apparatus 300 can also include at least one memory 304. The memory 304 can include program code 306 that, when executed by the processor 302, causes the apparatus 300 to perform at least one example embodiment. Exemplary embodiments and aspects of the present subject matter can be included in any suitable device, for example, including servers, elevator controllers, workstations, that are capable of performing the exemplary embodiment processes. Exemplary embodiments can also store information related to the various processes described herein. Although the apparatus 300 is shown as a single device, it should be understood that the functions of the apparatus 300 can be distributed to multiple devices, as applicable.

[0054] Example embodiments can be implemented in software, hardware, application logic or a combination of software, hardware and application logic. Example embodiments can also store information relating to various processes described herein in one or more of a database, memory, or any other suitable storage medium or memory. In one example embodiment, the information can be stored in the one or more memory devices using data structures, such as records, tables, arrays, fields, graphs, trees, lists, or any other suitable data structure. Methods described in 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.

[0055] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the computer and / or software arts, the processor 302 can comprise one or more general purpose processors, microprocessors, digital signal processors, microcontrollers, and the like, programmed in accordance with the teachings of the example embodiments. As will also be appreciated by those skilled in the software art, based on the teachings of the example embodiments, programmers of ordinary skill can easily prepare appropriate software. Additionally, the example embodiments can be implemented by preparing a suitable network of conventional component circuits, or by interconnecting a conventional component circuits suitable to implement the example embodiments. Thus, the examples are not limited to any specific combination of hardware and / or software. Any suitable software, including software capable of controlling, driving, enabling, and the like, the components of the example embodiments, can be stored on any one or combination of the computer-readable media described herein. Such computer-readable media can also include computer programs for performing all or a portion of the processing described in implementing the example embodiments, if the processing is distributed. The computer code devices of the examples can include any suitable interpretable or executable code mechanism, including but not limited to scripts, interpretable programs, dynamic link libraries (DLLs), Java classes and applets, complete executable programs, and the like.

[0056] As described above, the components of the example embodiments can include a computer-readable medium or memory 304 for holding instructions programmed in accordance with the teachings and for holding the data structures, tables, records, and / or other data described herein. In the example embodiments, the application logic, software or instructions sets are maintained on any one of various conventional computer-readable media in the various computer systems. In the context of this document, a "computer-readable medium" can be any media or means that can contain, store, communicate, propagate or transport the instructions for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device, such as a computer. Computer-readable media can include a computer-readable storage medium that can be any media or means that can contain or store the instructions for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device, such as a computer. Computer-readable media can include any suitable medium or means that participates in providing instructions to a processor for execution. Such a medium can take many forms, including but not limited to, non-volatile media, volatile media, transmission media, and the like.

[0057] The apparatus 300 can comprise a communication interface 308 configured to enable the apparatus 300 to transmit information to and / or receive information from other apparatuses and / or elements associated with the elevator system.

[0058] The apparatus 300 can comprise means for performing at least one of the methods described herein. In one example, the means can comprise at least one processor 302, at least one memory including a program code 306, the program code 306 configured to, when executed by the at least one processor 302, cause the controller 300 to perform the method.

[0059] While there have been shown and described and pointed out fundamental novel features as applied to preferred embodiments, it will be understood that various omissions and substitutions and changes of the form and details of the devices illustrated and in their operation can be made by those skilled in the art, without departing from the spirit of the application. For example, it is expressly intended that all combinations of those elements and / or method steps which perform substantially the same function in substantially the same way to achieve the same results are within the scope of the application. Moreover, it is intended that the structures and / or elements and / or method steps recited in any claim can be combined in any way with the structures and / or elements and / or method steps recited in any other claim, even if that structure and / or element and / or method steps is not expressly disclosed in the other claim. Furthermore, it is intended that the scope of the application herein disclosed include all alternatives available to one having ordinary skill in the art and that the application not be limited to the preferred embodiments described but rather to each individually described feature or group of features described above and / or the combinations of any of the individual features or groups thereof.

[0060] In accordance with the provisions of the patent statutes, the principle and mode of operation of this application have been explained and illustrated insofar as is necessary to convey a full, complete, and accurate understanding to those skilled in the art. However, it should be understood that the application can be practiced otherwise than specifically set forth herein without departing from essential attributes of the application and, accordingly, reference should be made to the appended claims for determining the scope of the application. Applicant expressly reserves the right to amend the claims to affirmatively disclaim non-essential features of the application as set forth in the above detailed description. Applicant expressly reserves the right to amend the claims to affirmatively disclaim any feature of the application that is not specifically set forth in the claims. Applicant expressly reserves the right to amend the claims to affirmatively disclaim any feature of the application that is not specifically set forth in the claims.

Claims

1. A method for allocating elevators of an elevator system, the method comprising: obtaining image data associated with an area associated with a plurality of elevators (202A-202F); detecting an automated guided vehicle (204) based on the image data; determining parameter data associated with the automated guided vehicle (204) based on the image data; obtaining information indicating a destination floor of the automated guided vehicle (204) by recognizing information from a display of the automated guided vehicle (204) based on the image data; assigning an elevator car to the automated guided vehicle (204) by taking into account at least the parameter data and the destination floor; as well as Using a display associated with the elevator system causes information identifying an assigned elevator car to be transmitted to the automated guided vehicle (204).

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the parameter data includes at least one of a size and a moving speed of the automated guided vehicle (204).

3. The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein obtaining image data associated with an area associated with a plurality of elevators (202A-202F) comprises: The image data is obtained from at least one camera (212, 214).

4. A device (300) for allocating elevators of an elevator system, the device (300) comprising: means (302, 304, 308) for obtaining image data associated with an area associated with a plurality of elevators (202A-202F); means (302, 304, 308) for detecting an automated guided vehicle (204) based on the image data; means (302, 304, 308) for determining parameter data associated with the automated guided vehicle (204) based on the image data; means (302, 304, 308) for obtaining information indicating a destination floor of the automated guided vehicle (204) based on the image data, wherein the means (302, 304, 308) is configured to obtain the information indicating the destination floor of the automated guided vehicle (204) by identifying information indicating the destination floor from a display of the automated guided vehicle (204) based on the image data; means (302, 304, 308) for assigning an elevator car to the automated guided vehicle (204) by taking into account at least the parameter data and the destination floor; as well as Means (302, 304, 308) for causing information identifying an assigned elevator car to be transmitted to the automated guided vehicle (204) using a display associated with the elevator system.

5. The apparatus (300) of claim 4, wherein the parameter data includes at least one of a size and a moving speed of the automated guided vehicle (204).

6. The apparatus (300) of claim 4 or 5, wherein the means (302, 304, 308) for obtaining image data associated with an area associated with a plurality of elevators is configured to obtain the image data from at least one camera (212, 214).

7. An elevator system comprising: Multiple elevators (202A-202F); as well as The device (300) according to any one of claims 4 to 6.

8. The elevator system of claim 7, further comprising at least one camera (212, 214) configured to provide image data regarding an area associated with the plurality of elevators (202A-202F).

9. Computer device comprising program code which, when executed by at least one processing unit, causes the device (300) according to any one of claims 4 to 6 to perform the method according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

10. A computer-readable medium comprising a computer program, the computer program comprising program code which, when executed by at least one processing unit, causes the apparatus (300) according to any one of claims 4 to 6 to perform the method according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

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