Stimulation system and method for monitoring an elevator system

Abstract

The invention relates to a stimulation system and method for monitoring an elevator system. A stimulation system (301) for monitoring an elevator system, comprising a master controller (302) having a trigger output (312) for sending a trigger signal and being configurable to receive detection signals from sensors of the elevator system, and an activation controller (304) being connectable to an input unit of an elevator car and having a trigger input (316) connected to the trigger output for receiving the trigger signal; wherein the activation controller is configured to cause, when connected to the input unit, an activation of a predetermined operating signal at the input unit in response to the trigger signal (406); and wherein the master controller is configured to send (404) the trigger signal when configured to receive the detection signals from the sensors, and to determine, based on the detection signals, whether at least one change of an operating state occurs in accordance with at least one predetermined operating signal.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to a stimulation system and method for (autonomously) monitoring elevator systems and, in particular, detecting the operability or inoperability (such as sudden stop) of elevator cars. Background Technology

[0002] Elevator systems can be remotely monitored to provide useful information to operating elevator companies and fleet building managers. The basic information they need is knowing whether each elevator is in operation (or has suddenly stopped). Specifically, elevator systems can be monitored in various ways to establish characteristics related to the operational health of the elevator system. Some characteristics of particular concern are those relating to the movement of the elevator car within the shaft. Other characteristics of particular concern are those relating to the operation of the elevator car doors (multiple doors) when the elevator car is at a landing. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to aspects of this disclosure, a stimulation system for monitoring an elevator system, an elevator system, and a stimulation method for monitoring an elevator system are provided.

[0004] A stimulation system for (e.g., autonomously) monitoring an elevator system (the elevator system having an elevator car, an input unit for providing an operating signal to an elevator controller of the elevator system, and a sensor for detecting the operating state of the elevator car and outputting a corresponding detection signal) includes: a main controller having a trigger output for sending a trigger signal and configured (i.e., the main controller) to receive a detection signal from a sensor; and an activation controller having a trigger input for receiving a trigger signal, the trigger input being connected to the trigger output of the main controller, and the activation controller being connectable to the input unit of the elevator car. The activation controller is configured to, when connected to the input unit, trigger an activation of a predetermined operating signal at the input unit in response to a trigger signal received at the trigger input. The main controller is configured to, when configured to receive a detection signal from a sensor, send a trigger signal through the trigger output and determine, based on the detection signal, whether at least one change in the operating state occurs according to at least one predetermined operating signal.

[0005] Therefore, functional testing begins, in which activation of a predetermined operating signal at the input unit is triggered and executed autonomously based on a trigger signal, for example, without any further interaction between the main controller and the activation controller or any commands or signals from devices outside the stimulation system. For example, this activation is executed independently by the stimulation system. This allows for a simple and reliable structure for the activation controller and enables implementation without any remote commands from a computing entity located away from the elevator system. For example, no communication interface is required on the activation controller other than the trigger input. The activation controller can optionally be used in conjunction with an existing programmable main controller (e.g., a main controller already installed in the elevator car and also used for other purposes) having outputs that can be configured as trigger outputs. For example, this allows for retrofitting.

[0006] According to aspects of this disclosure, the stimulation system (and also the stimulation method) can autonomously provide a simulation of passenger use of the elevator (e.g., door opening request, one or more destination inputs). The stimulation system and the specific activation controller can be considered autonomous devices. By adding sensors to detect elevator movement (door movement, car movement), it allows a person or remote monitoring system to know whether the elevator is in operation (without sudden stop).

[0007] Specifically, the stimulation system provides sudden stop detection (e.g., to determine if the elevator is in operation) for older elevator systems or those where communication with the elevator controller is not possible. For example, an elevator system already equipped with a (e.g., programmable) main controller (configured to receive detection signals from sensors) can be additionally (or retrofitted) with an activation controller (and, for example, connected to an input unit of the elevator car). The main controller can then be reprogrammed to implement the stimulation system and method. In another example, the main controller and activation controller can be installed in an existing elevator system (and, for example, connected to sensors and an input unit of the elevator car).

[0008] The main controller can be configured to generate trigger signals autonomously, that is, the trigger signals are generated by the main controller itself without receiving commands (such as commands to start a monitoring program) from another device (such as a remote computing entity that is particularly far away from the elevator system or elevator controller).

[0009] In the example, the main controller can be further configured to: when configured to receive detection signals from sensors, determine, based on the detection signals, that a specified dead time has elapsed since the last use of the elevator car, and send a trigger signal when it is determined that the specified dead time has elapsed since the last use. Therefore, no external signal is required to initiate the functional test. The dead time can be appropriately selected. For example (e.g., to ensure that a functional test is performed at least once a day if the elevator car is not in use), the dead time can be in the range of several hours, such as from 1 hour to 23 hours, from 2 hours to 20 hours, from 4 hours to 15 hours, or from 6 hours to 10 hours. In another example, the dead time can be in the range of several days, such as from 1 day to 7 days, from 1 day to 4 days, or from 2 days to 3 days. Other time periods are also possible; for example, the dead time can be in the range of 1 week to 4 weeks, or from 1 month to 12 months.

[0010] In the example, the activation controller is configured to, when connected to the input unit, cause the activation of some or all of a predetermined sequence of predetermined operating signals, such that there is a corresponding delay time period between every two consecutive operating signals in the predetermined sequence. Therefore, the operating signals are activated in a delayed manner relative to each other, ensuring proper functioning of the elevator car, which may depend on the order of the operating signals. The delay time periods can be selected independently of each other. For example, each of the delay time periods may be in the range of 0.1 s to 20 s, in the range of 0.5 s to 15 s, or in the range of 1 s to 10 s.

[0011] In the example, the activation controller includes a delay circuit connected to a trigger input and an activation element connected to the delay circuit; the activation element is connectable to an input unit, wherein the delay circuit is configured to generate an operation command in response to receiving a trigger signal, wherein each operation command changes the state of one of the activation elements such that when connected to the input unit, it causes activation of the corresponding one of the operation signals; and wherein at least one of the operation commands is generated with a time delay relative to the trigger signal. It should be noted that the time delay of the operation command should be understood as a delay other than the signal propagation time through the delay circuit. For example, the time delay of at least one of the operation signals may be greater than 0.1 s (seconds) or greater than 0.5 s. Optionally, the time delay of at least one of the operation signals may be in the range of 0.1 s to 60 s, in the range of 0.5 s to 40 s, or in the range of 1 s to 30 s.

[0012] In the example, at least two of the operation commands generated with a time delay relative to the trigger signal are generated with different time delays relative to the trigger signal. For example, all operation commands, or all operation commands except one operation command, can be generated with a time delay relative to the trigger signal, such that each operation command has a different time delay. According to another example, all operation commands except one operation command can be generated with a time delay relative to the trigger signal, such that each operation command has a different time delay.

[0013] It will be appreciated that the time period and delay time in the previous example are typically implemented by a hardware element on the activation controller that delays the signal (delay element).

[0014] In the example, at least one predetermined operating signal includes one or more of the following: a door opening signal, a drive signal to a first floor, a drive signal to a second floor different from the first floor, an entry signal to allow entry into the elevator car, and an entry signal to prohibit entry into the elevator car.

[0015] In the example, at least one predetermined operation signal includes a door opening signal and at least one of a drive signal to the first floor and a drive signal to the second floor; wherein the activation controller is configured to cause activation of the door opening signal prior to activation of at least one of the drive signal to the first floor and the drive signal to the second floor.

[0016] In the example, the main controller includes at least one sensor input that can be connected to one or more of the sensors. The sensors may include one or more of at least one door sensor and at least one car position indicator.

[0017] In the example, each of at least one change in the operating state is associated with one or more of at least one predetermined operating signal.

[0018] In the example, the main controller is further configured to generate an error message when it is determined that at least one change in the operational state has not occurred according to at least one predetermined operational signal, and optionally, to send the error message to a (first) remote computing entity. The error message may include information about which of the at least one change in the operational state has not occurred.

[0019] In the example, the main controller is further configured to generate a success message when it is determined that at least one change in the operational state has indeed occurred according to at least one predetermined operational signal; and, optionally, to send the success message to a (second) remote computing entity. The second remote computing entity may be the same as or different from the first remote computing entity.

[0020] For example, the first and second remote computing entities may be computers, computer systems, cloud systems, or cloud services. The first and second remote computing entities may be located remotely from the elevator car (e.g., an elevator system server in a building, accessible to building managers) or even remotely from the elevator system (e.g., outside the building, such as a cloud server accessible to a service company). In some examples, a communication gateway may be provided in the elevator system, which connects to or is able to connect (via wire and / or wirelessly) to the main controller and the first and / or second remote computing entities for data exchange. In some examples, the main controller includes direct or indirect connections to the first and / or second remote computing entities via a telecommunications network.

[0021] In the example, at least one change in the operating state includes a first change in the operating state and a second change in the operating state; wherein, the main controller is further configured to: when configured to receive a detection signal from a sensor, after sending a trigger signal, monitor whether the detection signal has undergone a first change in the operating state within a specified first monitoring time period (wherein, optionally, the first monitoring time period starts from the trigger signal, or may start from the trigger signal with a time delay), after sending the trigger signal, monitor whether the detection signal has undergone a second change in the operating state within a specified second monitoring time period, wherein the second monitoring time period is longer than the first monitoring time period (wherein, optionally, the first monitoring time period starts from the trigger signal), and when the first change in the operating state does not occur during the first monitoring time period, determine that the first change in the operating state has not occurred according to at least one predetermined operating signal, and stop monitoring whether the second change in the operating state has occurred.

[0022] The elevator system includes an elevator controller and an elevator car. The elevator car has an input unit for providing operating signals to the elevator controller. The elevator system has sensors for detecting the operating status of the elevator car and outputting corresponding detection signals. The elevator system further includes a stimulation system according to aspects of this disclosure, wherein a main controller is configured to receive the detection signals and activate the controller connected to the input unit.

[0023] In any of the examples disclosed herein, the input unit may include one or more of the following: a card reader, a set of destination input buttons, a destination call panel (e.g., a touch screen display), a gesture command sensor, or any other suitable device for recognizing passenger input relating to the movement of the elevator car.

[0024] In any of the examples disclosed herein, the sensor may include one or more of the following: a door sensor (e.g., arranged to sense door opening and / or closing), a car position indicator, a car speed sensor, or an accelerometer mounted to the elevator car.

[0025] Stimulation methods for (e.g., autonomously) monitoring elevator systems include: The trigger signal is sent by the main controller; The activation controller receives the trigger signal; The activation controller, in response to a trigger signal, causes the activation of a predetermined operation signal at the input unit. The main controller receives detection signals from the sensors; and The main controller determines, based on the detection signal, whether at least one change in the operating state has occurred according to at least one predetermined operating signal.

[0026] It will be recognized that all the optional or example features discussed above regarding the stimulation system can also be optionally applied to this stimulation method for monitoring elevator systems. Attached Figure Description

[0027] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an elevator system according to an example of this disclosure; Figure 2 This is a schematic illustration of an elevator car according to an example of this disclosure; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a stimulation system according to an example of this disclosure; Figure 4A , Figure 4B This is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary monitoring process; Figure 5 An exemplary timing diagram is depicted for performing elevator monitoring. Detailed Implementation

[0028] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an elevator system 101 including an elevator car 103 (also referred to as a car), a counterweight 105, a tension member 107, a guide rail 109, a machine 111, a position reference system 113, and an elevator controller 115 (such as a controller for an elevator system). 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, steel 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 relative to the counterweight 105 within the elevator shaft 117 and along the guide rail 109.

[0029] 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 a support or guide rail, and 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 mounted directly to a moving component of machine 111, or may be located in other locations and / or configurations as known in the art. Position reference system 113 may be any device or mechanism known in the art for monitoring the position of elevator car and / or counterweight. For example, but not limited to, position reference system 113 may be an encoder, sensor, or other system, and may include speed sensing, absolute position sensing, etc., as those skilled in the art will appreciate.

[0030] As shown, elevator controller 115 is located in controller room 121 of elevator shaft 117 and is configured to control the operation of elevator system 101 and, in particular, elevator car 103. For example, elevator controller 115 may provide drive signals to machine 111 to control the acceleration, deceleration, leveling, stopping, etc., of elevator car 103. Elevator controller 115 may 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 may stop at one or more floors 125 as controlled by elevator controller 115. Although shown in controller room 121, those skilled in the art will recognize that elevator controller 115 may be located and / or configured in other locations or positions within elevator system 101. In one embodiment, elevator controller may be located remotely or in the cloud.

[0031] Machine 111 may include a motor or similar drive mechanism. According to embodiments of this disclosure, machine 111 is configured to include an electrically driven motor. The power supply for the motor may be any power source, including the power grid, which, in combination with other components, supplies power to the motor. Machine 111 may include a traction sheave that applies force to tension member 107 to move elevator car 103 within elevator shaft 117.

[0032] Although shown and described as a rope system including tension member 107, elevator systems employing other methods and mechanisms for moving the elevator car within an elevator shaft may utilize embodiments of this disclosure. For example, embodiments may be used in ropeless elevator systems that use linear motors or clamping wheels to propel motion onto the elevator car. Embodiments may also be used in ropeless elevator systems that use hydraulic lifts to propel motion onto the elevator car. Figure 1 These are non-restrictive examples presented merely for illustrative and explanatory purposes.

[0033] Figure 2 This is a schematic illustration of an elevator car 203 (also referred to as a car) according to an example of this disclosure. The elevator car 203 has a door 241 and an input unit 230. The input unit 230 has input elements, such as buttons, on the inside of the elevator car for receiving input from the user of the elevator. User input is typically output from the input unit to the controller of the elevator system (e.g., Figure 1 The elevator controller 115 serves as the operation signal, and the elevator controller of the elevator system performs the corresponding operation. Figure 2 The positioning of the sensor in the middle is merely an example. Figure 2 The diagram shows a door sensor 245 and a car position indicator 243 (e.g., operating in conjunction with a position reference system 113). The door sensor 245 and car position indicator 243 are exemplary sensors for detecting the operational status of the elevator. The sensors may be arranged differently and placed at locations other than those shown. Furthermore, the sensors, or at least a portion thereof, may not be placed on the elevator car, but rather on other components of the elevator system (such as…). Figure 1 The position reference system 113 is in the middle.

[0034] exist Figure 2 The diagram illustrates a stimulation system for an elevator car 203, which generally comprises a main controller 202 and an activation controller 204. The main controller 202 is configured to generate a trigger signal and is connected to the activation controller 204 for sending the trigger signal to the activation controller 204. The activation controller 204 is connected to an input unit 230 to trigger the activation of a predetermined operating signal in response to receiving the trigger signal. In some examples, the activation controller 204 (and optionally the input unit 230) may be added or modified and connected to an existing main controller 202, for example, if the elevator system is installed by one manufacturer and another company takes over the responsibility for service and monitoring. The activation controller 204 provides the service company with a way to trigger an operating signal at the input unit 230 to stimulate test conditions and then monitor how the elevator car reacts. The existing main controller 202 may be reprogrammed to implement the procedures of this application, i.e., to perform the steps of the procedures of this application executed by the main controller.

[0035] Although Figure 2 The main controller and activation controller are drawn on, for example, the side wall, but they can be arranged independently of each other in other locations in the elevator car, such as in other side walls or on other side walls, or in the top or bottom wall of the elevator car or on the top or bottom wall.

[0036] For example, such as Figure 2The stimulation system described herein for autonomously monitoring an elevator system can be considered an embedded monitoring system; that is, a monitoring system that is embedded in the elevator car (or elevator system) and does not depend on inputs or commands from outside the elevator car (or elevator system) in order to perform functional tests of the elevator system.

[0037] In some examples (different) Figure 2 In the example shown, the main controller may be located outside or away from the elevator car. In this case, only the activation controller is located in the elevator car. For example, the main controller may be part of the elevator controller, or its functionality may be provided by the elevator controller. In this case, only the activation controller is located in the elevator car, and the elevator controller can be considered the main controller.

[0038] Figure 3 This is a schematic illustration of a stimulation system 301 according to an example of the present disclosure. The stimulation system 301 includes a main controller 302 and an activation controller 304.

[0039] The main controller 302 may include a processor 306 and a memory 308. The processor 306 may have one or more computing cores for executing program instructions stored in the memory 308. The memory 308 may include one or more volatile memories, such as random access memory (e.g., SRAM or DRAM). The memory 308 may further include one or more non-volatile memories, such as solid-state memory (e.g., flash memory configured in NAND or NOR). The main controller 302 may further include a communication interface 314 for communicating (i.e., exchanging data) with a remote computing entity, such as a remote computer, a remote computing entity, or a cloud system. In this example, the communication interface 314 may be configured to connect to a communication gateway of an elevator system in which the stimulation system 301 is installed. Such a connection to the gateway may be a wired or wireless connection. In this example, the communication gateway may then be configured to communicate with the remote computing entity.

[0040] The main controller 302 may include one or more sensor inputs 310 configured to receive signals from the elevator car, such as door sensors and car position indicators (e.g., Figure 1 The position reference system 113) receives detection signals from its sensors. That is, the main controller 302 can be configured to receive detection signals from sensors in the elevator car. In some examples, the main controller 302 may be configured to receive detection signals from sensors in the elevator system, including those from sensors at least partially located on other components of the elevator system besides the elevator car. Alternatively, or in addition to using sensor inputs(s)(310), the main controller 302 may be configured to receive sensor detection signals via communication interface 314.

[0041] The main controller 302 is configured to generate a trigger signal and includes a trigger output 312 configured to send the trigger signal to the activation controller. The trigger output 312 can be any interface. In particular, a GPIO (general purpose input / output pin; for example, a pin whose output voltage level can be directly set by the processor (i.e., a program executed by the processor) can be used as the trigger output 312.

[0042] The activation controller 304 includes a trigger input 316 configured to receive a trigger signal. For example, the trigger output 312 of the main controller can be connected to the trigger input 316 of the activation controller 304 via a wire 322 (arrows indicating the direction of the trigger signal).

[0043] The activation controller 304 may include a delay circuit 320. The delay circuit 320 may be configured to receive a trigger signal (directly or indirectly from a trigger input) and generate or output an operation command for activating elements 318a, 318b, 318c, ... 318n. The activation elements 318a, 318b, 318c, ... 318n may be switches, such as relays or semiconductor switches (e.g., transistors). Correspondingly, the operation command may be to set or change a voltage level or sequence of voltage levels applied to the control terminal or control gate of the respective switch (activating element). Other terminals of the switches may be wired to input units. In particular, this means that the activation controller can be used with different input units that provide different voltage levels (or similar levels) for the operation signal, since these voltage levels are provided by the input units.

[0044] Activation elements 318a, 318b, 318c, ... 318n can be connected to corresponding input elements (such as buttons or card readers for access controls) of the input unit 330 inside the elevator car. Figure 3 In the example shown, activation elements 318a, 318b, 318c, ... 318n are connected to corresponding input elements 332a, 332b, 332c, ... 332n of the input unit. When controlled accordingly by an operation command from a delay circuit, each of the activation elements 318a, 318b, 318c, ... 318n causes the activation of the same operation signal if the corresponding input element will be used by a user (e.g., a button pressed by the user or a security card presented to a card reader). Each of the activation elements 318a, 318b, 318c, ... 318n (such as a switch) may bridge the corresponding input element 332a, 332b, 332c, ... 332n.

[0045] The operating signal is that it can be provided to the elevator system controller by the input unit (e.g., Figure 1The elevator controller 115 of the elevator system 101 shown transmits signals to the elevator car for operation based on the operation signals. In some examples, the operation signals may also control components that are not part of the elevator car (such as doors on the landings). It should be noted that the input unit 330 is not necessarily part of the stimulation system 301 itself; rather, the stimulation system can be connected to / attached to the input unit of the elevator car to provide its monitoring functions, for example, the stimulation system can be connected to an input unit already installed in the elevator car.

[0046] For example, input element 332a may be a button for opening the elevator car and / or the elevator system door, input element 332b may be a button for the first floor, input element 332c may be a button for the second floor, and input element 332n may be a card reader for access control. The terms "first floor" and "second floor" are used to distinguish two different floors and do not necessarily refer to "floor number 1" and "floor number 2" in the elevator system's floor numbering system.

[0047] Figure 4A , Figure 4B This is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary monitoring process. Figure 4A Involves the main controller of the stimulus system (e.g., such as...) Figure 3 The steps performed by the main controller 302 shown are as follows: Figure 4B This involves the activation controller of the stimulus system (e.g., such as...). Figure 3 The steps performed by the activation controller 304 shown are as follows.

[0048] The main controller is typically programmable, so the steps performed in the main controller can be reprogrammed. For example, time periods such as dead time and / or monitoring time periods can be set to different values ​​and / or steps different from the exemplary implementation shown can be programmed.

[0049] The activation controller is typically implemented using hardware components; therefore, it is impossible to change the operating commands and / or activation signals and / or their timing generated by the activation controller after production. Unlike what is shown, predetermined operating signals and timing can be implemented by appropriately selecting hardware components. The advantage of implementation via hardware components is that it can be implemented easily and at low cost.

[0050] In step 402, the main controller determines (monitors) whether a specified dead time has elapsed since the last use of the elevator car, i.e., whether an elevator operation (such as door opening or elevator car movement) has occurred during the dead time. This determination is performed based on detection signals received from sensors. For example, based on the detection signals, it can be determined whether the elevator car doors have opened during the dead time, or whether the elevator car floor has changed, thus indicating car movement. When use (elevator operation) is determined during the dead time (i.e., before its completion), the last use time or the timer for measuring the dead time can be reset accordingly.

[0051] If it is determined in step 402 that the dead time has elapsed (“Yes”), in step 404, a trigger signal 406 is generated and sent to the activation controller, i.e., the trigger signal is provided by the main controller at its trigger output. If the dead time has not elapsed (“No”), then step 402 continues.

[0052] Further steps can be viewed as functional tests of the elevator system and specifically the elevator car, which are performed in response to timing signals, i.e., in this example, in response to the elapsed dead time.

[0053] Reference activation controller (see) Figure 4B In step 452, the trigger input is monitored to check whether a trigger signal is received, i.e., whether a trigger signal is detected at the trigger input. If not ("No"), step 452 can proceed. When a trigger signal is detected at the trigger input ("Yes"), the activation controller initiates the activation of predetermined operation signals in a sequence, wherein a delay time is included between successive predetermined operation signals. In the following, it is assumed that the activation controller is connected to the input unit.

[0054] In step 454, the sequence may begin by allowing entry into the elevator car and generally allowing operation of the elevator system; that is, generating an entry command to allow entry into the elevator car such that an entry signal for allowing entry into the elevator car is activated at the input unit. This refers to a situation where the elevator car has an entry control device, such as a security card reader, that allows operation of the elevator car only when entry is permitted. The expression "entering the elevator car" can be understood in the sense of allowing operation of the elevator car (e.g., opening the door or driving to a different floor). The entry command for allowing entry into the elevator car may be a change in voltage level (e.g., from low to high or from high to low), the control of which is connected to or can be connected to an activation element (such as a switch, relay, semiconductor switch, or transistor) of the entry control device. A change in the state of the switch can activate (generate) the same operating signal that is activated when normal entry control is achieved (e.g., when the security card reader detects a valid security card).

[0055] After entry is permitted in step 454, the process may wait for a first delay period (e.g., 1 second) in step 456. In step 458, after the first delay period has elapsed, the door opening command triggers the activation of the door opening signal, i.e., the activation (generation) of the signal that is activated when the door opening button is pressed on the input unit. In step 458, the door opening command and the corresponding door opening signal may be maintained for a certain period of time, such as a first activation time (e.g., 1 second).

[0056] Following step 458, the process may wait for a second delay period (e.g., 5 seconds) in step 460. In step 462, after the second delay period has elapsed, the drive command to the first floor triggers the activation of the drive signal to the first floor, i.e., the activation (generation) of the signal that is activated when the floor button for the first floor is pressed on the input unit. In step 462, the drive command to the first floor and the corresponding drive signal to the first floor may be maintained for a period of time, such as a second activation time (e.g., 1 second).

[0057] Following step 462, the process may wait for a third delay period (e.g., 5 seconds) in step 464. In step 466, after the second delay period has elapsed, the drive command to the second floor triggers the activation of the drive signal to the second floor, i.e., the activation (generation) of the signal that is activated when the floor button for the second floor is pressed on the input unit. In step 466, the drive command to the second floor and the corresponding drive signal to the second floor may be maintained for a period of time, such as a third activation time (e.g., 1 second).

[0058] Following step 466, in step 468, the sequence may end with prohibition of entry into the elevator car, i.e., generating an entry command to prohibit entry into the elevator car, such that an entry signal for prohibiting entry into the elevator car is activated at the input unit. The entry command to prohibit entry into the elevator car may be a change in the voltage level of a switch connected to or capable of being connected to the entry control (the opposite of the change in step 454). The change in the state of the switch may activate (generate) the same operating signal activated for prohibition of entry when normal entry control is implemented (e.g., when the security card reader fails to detect a valid security card).

[0059] In step 470 (after step 468), the activation controller may be reset to its default state, and the process may continue to step 452, i.e., monitoring the trigger input. The activation controller is typically configured such that trigger signals received during the execution of steps 454 through 468 are ignored; that is, the execution of these steps is not interrupted, or the sequence is restarted at step 454. For example, step 452 may be executed only if the activation controller is in its default state.

[0060] exist Figure 4B In this process, a delay period between the activations of the continuous operation signals is implemented by including a waiting time (steps 456, 460, 464). Alternatively, such a delay period can be implemented by a waiting time starting from the receipt of the trigger signal ("Yes" in step 452). In this case, for each of the continuous operation signals, a waiting time can be selected such that a delay period between the activations of the continuous operation signals is achieved.

[0061] Will realize, Figure 4B The groups of operating signals shown are merely exemplary. Different groups of operating signals, with different numbers or additional signals, may be implemented by the activation controller. The delay time between consecutive operating signals may be selected to have a value different from the indicated exemplary value, or may not exist (provided it is consistent with the structure of the elevator system). The activation time of the operating signal may be selected to have a value different from the indicated exemplary value.

[0062] Reference main controller (see) Figure 4A After sending the trigger signal in step 404, the main controller can monitor (check) in step 408 whether the door has opened within a first monitoring time period (e.g., 15 seconds). This is done based on the detection signal from a sensor such as a door sensor. In step 410, it is determined whether the door has been opened during the first monitoring time period.

[0063] When it is determined in step 410 that the door was not opened during the first monitoring time period (“No”), in step 430, a first error message may be generated or output, and may be sent, for example, to a remote computing entity. The first error message indicates, for example, that the door was not open, and may include additional information such as a timestamp, a time indicating the last time the elevator car was used, or other information about the status of the elevator car. In particular, the first error message is an indication that the elevator car may have stopped and there is a risk that passengers are trapped inside (“sudden stop and risk of passenger entrapment”).

[0064] When it is determined in step 410 that the door has been opened during the first time period (“Yes”), the process can proceed to step 412, in which the main controller can monitor (check) whether the elevator car has moved during a second monitoring time period (e.g., 60 s), i.e., whether car movement occurred during the second monitoring time period. This can be done based on detection signals from sensors (e.g., from a car position indicator), where a change in car position indicates that the elevator car has moved. The second time period can begin at the same time point as the first time period, i.e., after step 404 (sending a trigger signal). In step 414, it is determined whether car movement has occurred during the second time period.

[0065] If it is determined in step 414 that no car movement occurred during the second monitoring period (“No”), in step 432, a second error message may be generated or output, and may be sent, for example, to a remote computing entity. The second error message indicates, for example, that no car movement occurred, and may include additional information such as a timestamp, a time indicating the last use of the elevator car, or other information about the elevator car's status. Specifically, the first error message is an indication that the elevator car may have stopped without any risk of passengers being trapped inside (“sudden stop without passenger trapping”).

[0066] When it is determined in step 414 that car movement has occurred during the second time period (“Yes”), in step 416, a success message may be generated or output, and for example, the success message may be sent to a remote computing entity. The success message indicates, for example, a functional test (i.e., Figure 4A , Figure 4B The process shown has been successfully executed and may include additional information such as timestamps, timestamps indicating the last time the elevator car was used, or other information about the status of the elevator car.

[0067] After each of steps 416, 430, and 432, timing parameters such as dead time, first monitoring time period, and second monitoring time period may be reset in step 418, and the process may continue to step 402.

[0068] It will be recognized that, instead of sending separate error messages (first and second error messages) in steps 430 and 432, or otherwise, after step 414, a combined error message may be generated or output and optionally sent to the remote computing entity, indicating that the door did not open during the first time period and / or that no car movement occurred during the second time period. That is, after step 414, a success message or a combined error message may be generated or output and optionally sent to the remote computing entity.

[0069] The first error message, the second error message, and the combined error message are examples of error messages generated (or output) by the main controller and optionally sent to a remote computing entity when it is determined, based on detection signals, that the operating state of the elevator car has not changed according to a predetermined operating signal. Error messages such as the first error message, the second error message, and the combined error message may include information indicating which change in the operating state did not occur. Such information facilitates error analysis and indicates the urgency of responding to the error message (e.g., whether there is a possibility that passengers are trapped in the elevator car).

[0070] Figure 5An exemplary timing diagram depicts monitoring of an elevator car (and generally the elevator system). In the diagram, it is assumed that the elevator system is operating properly (in terms of functionality tested by the stimulus system). In the diagram, time t extends from top to bottom and lists the various components of the elevator system (e.g., such as...) Figure 1 (As shown) the activities performed or occurring in different components.

[0071] Columns 502 and 504 relate to stimulation systems (such as...) Figure 2 The timing of the steps performed in the stimulation system shown. Specifically, column 502 relates to the main controller, and column 504 relates to the activation controller.

[0072] The operating signals at the input unit are shown below: column 512 relates to entry control signals, column 514 relates to door opening signals, column 516 relates to drive signals for the first floor (e.g., "floor 1" in the floor numbering of a building incorporated into the elevator system or any other floor), and column 518 relates to drive signals for a second floor different from the first floor (e.g., "floor 2"). It should be noted that the terms "first" / "second" floor are used merely to distinguish two different floors and do not necessarily refer to floor numbers.

[0073] Columns 522 and 524 relate to sensors and their detection signals (detection data). For example, column 522 shows the detection signal of the car position indicator (car position sensor), and column 524 shows the detection signal of the door sensor.

[0074] In addition, the behavior of the elevator car is described in columns 532 and 534, with column 532 showing the movement of the elevator car and column 534 showing the movement of the doors.

[0075] exist Figure 5 In the example shown, at a certain time (start time 540), the timer can be started by the main controller and stopped at test time 542 after a defined dead time (i.e., a defined time period). Start time 540 can coincide with a predetermined event, such as the time of the last elevator car activity (e.g., door closing or opening), in which case the timer is reset when elevator car activity is detected during the dead time; or it can coincide with the time when a remote command to start the timer is received. Alternatively or additionally, start time 540 can be one or more predetermined times, such as a specific time each day or week.

[0076] At test time 542, the main controller began functional testing of the elevator car. Although in Figure 5The test time 542 is defined as the point in time when the dead time ends after the startup time 540; however, it will be appreciated that the test time 542 can generally be determined by any general-purpose timer. For example, the test time 542 can be one or more predetermined times, such as a specific time each day or week. The test time 542 can also be defined as the time when a (remote) test command is received at the main controller.

[0077] At test time 542, i.e., at the start of the functional test, trigger signal 544 is sent from the main controller (which generates the trigger signal) to the activation controller. Trigger signal 544 may extend over a period of time (e.g., 1 s). Furthermore, at test time 542, or after a time delay (e.g., 1 s), or after trigger signal 544 has stopped, monitoring of the sensor inputs of the main controller begins to receive feedback (detection signals) from the sensors. The sensor inputs are connected to sensors, such as the car position indicator and the door sensor. The sensor inputs may be individually or at least partially shared (e.g., according to the main controller's programming) for a period of time (also denoted as the monitoring period) after the start of monitoring to obtain feedback. For example, a first monitoring period 546 (e.g., 15 s) for monitoring detection signals from the door sensor and a second monitoring period 548 (e.g., 60 s) for monitoring detection signals from the car position indicator are shown.

[0078] In response to the received trigger signal 544, the activation controller can cause the input unit to generate at least one predetermined operation signal. The activation controller can be configured such that this response to the received trigger signal is triggered only when the activation controller is in a predetermined default state (i.e., causing at least one predetermined operation signal to be provided by the input unit). For example, as per [reference to...] Figure 3 The discussed approach involves generating operation commands within the activation controller, which causes the corresponding activation element of the activation controller to activate an operation signal corresponding to the operation command (e.g., by...). Figure 5 (The schematic switch is indicated in the text).

[0079] exist Figure 5 In the example shown, an entry command 550 for allowing entry into the elevator car, a door opening command 552, a drive command 554 for going to the first floor, a drive command 556 for going to a second floor different from the first floor, and an entry command 558 for prohibiting entry into the elevator car are generated as operation commands. Each operation command may be provided within a certain time period (e.g., 1 second), and this time period may be different for different operation commands. These time periods may be determined based on the electrical characteristics of the input unit (such as the hold time for the signal to be recorded).

[0080] The operation commands are provided in sequence, with a predetermined delay time interval between two consecutive operation commands in the sequence. The delay time intervals may differ for different pairs of consecutive operation commands. The delay time interval can be selected based on the operation of the elevator car implemented by the corresponding operation signals. For example, the delay time interval between the entry command 550 for allowing entry into the elevator car and the door opening command 552 may be 1 s, the delay time interval between the door opening command 552 and the drive command 554 to the first floor may be 5 s, the delay time interval between the drive command 554 to the first floor and the drive command 556 to the second floor may be 1 s, and the delay time interval between the drive command 556 to the second floor and the entry command 558 for prohibiting entry into the elevator car may be 2 s.

[0081] Will realize, Figure 5 The groups of operating commands and their corresponding operating signals shown are merely illustrative. Different groups of operating commands (or signals) with different, fewer, or additional commands (or signals) may be used. This may depend on the structure of the elevator system. For example, if the elevator car does not have entry controls, entry commands and signals for allowing entry into the elevator car and for prohibiting entry into the elevator car may not be provided.

[0082] Providing a sequence of door opening commands 552 before drive commands 554 and 556 is advantageous, for example, in situations where the elevator car or input unit is configured to stop monitoring floor button inputs from inside the elevator car after the elevator car has not been used for a period of time (sleep mode), while continuing to monitor door opening buttons to prevent passengers from being trapped inside the elevator car. That is, by providing a door opening signal first, the input unit is activated to provide a drive signal. Providing drive commands (and drive signals) to two different floors will in any case result in movement of the elevator car, even if the elevator car happens to be at the first floor at the beginning of the process.

[0083] After providing an operation command and causing the corresponding operation signal to be activated, the activation controller may be configured to reset (reset step 560) to a predetermined default state after a predetermined delay period. As noted above, the activation controller may be configured to begin generating at least one operation signal only when the activation controller is in the default state. Therefore, according to this example, any (new) trigger signals received at the activation controller during the activation (generation) of at least one operation signal are ignored by the activation controller.

[0084] In response to an entry command 550 for allowing entry into the elevator car, an entry signal 562 for allowing entry into the elevator car is activated, thereby allowing operation of the elevator car. Entry is permitted until an entry signal 564 for prohibiting entry into the elevator car is activated in response to an entry command 558 for prohibiting entry into the elevator car.

[0085] As shown, in response to the door open command 552, the door open signal 566 is activated; in response to the drive command 554 for the first floor, the drive signal 572 for the first floor is activated; and in response to the drive command 556 for the second floor, the drive signal 574 for the second floor is activated.

[0086] In response to the door open signal 566, the doors of the elevator system (the elevator car itself and the doors of the floors where the elevator car is located) can (when properly operated) begin to open and are fully open at time 568, at which time a corresponding detection signal, such as a door open detection signal 570 indicating that the door is open, can be generated by the door sensor. This detection signal (door open signal 570) can then be transmitted to the main controller, which is connected to the door sensor via a sensor input, during a first monitoring period 546. If the door fails to open (not shown), the main controller will not receive a detection signal (door open detection signal) during the first monitoring period 546.

[0087] In response to the drive signal 572 for the first floor, or in any case (including when the elevator car is already at the first floor when the drive signal 572 for the first floor is activated), in response to the drive signal 574 for the second floor, the elevator car begins to move, i.e., car movement 576 occurs. Car movement 576 causes a corresponding detection signal from the car position indicator, such as a car movement detection signal 578, which is transmitted to the main controller. Figure 5 In the example shown, during the second monitoring period 548, the main controller receives a car movement detection signal 578 via its sensor input. If the elevator car fails to move (not shown), the main controller will not receive a detection signal (car movement detection signal) during the second monitoring period 548.

[0088] exist Figure 5In the example shown, it is assumed that the elevator system operates correctly without malfunction; therefore, door opening and car movement are detected during the first monitoring period 546 and the second monitoring period 548, respectively. In this case, the main controller may output a success message 580 (e.g., output to the elevator controller of the elevator system) and optionally send the success message to a remote computing entity. If no door opening or car movement is detected during the corresponding monitoring period, at least one of a first error message, a second error message, and a combined error message may be output and optionally sent to a remote computing entity (e.g., regarding...). Figure 4A (As described).

[0089] In addition, the dead time and the first and second monitoring time periods can be reset in reset step 582.

[0090] Those skilled in the art will recognize that this disclosure has been illustrated by describing one or more specific examples, but the disclosure is not limited to these examples; many variations and modifications are possible within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A stimulation system (301) for monitoring an elevator system, the elevator system having an elevator car (103, 203), the elevator car having an input unit (230, 330) for providing an operating signal to an elevator controller (115) of the elevator system, and the elevator system having a sensor for detecting the operating state of the elevator car (203) and outputting a corresponding detection signal, the stimulation system (301) comprising: The main controller (302) has a trigger output (312) for sending a trigger signal and is configured to receive the detection signal from the sensor; and An activation controller (304) is connected to the input unit of the elevator car and has a trigger input (316) for receiving a trigger signal, the trigger input being connected to the trigger output of the main controller; The activation controller (304) is configured such that when connected to the input unit, In response to the trigger signal (406) received at the trigger input, (454, 458, 462, 466, 468) are activated by pre-determined operation signals (562, 564, 566, 572, 574) at the input unit; and The main controller (302) is configured to: when configured to receive the detection signal from the sensor, The trigger signal (404) is sent through the trigger output terminal, and Based on the detection signal, determine (410, 414) whether at least one change in the operating state occurs according to the at least one predetermined operating signal; The activation controller (304) includes a delay circuit (320) connected to the trigger input and activation elements (318a, 318b, 318c, ... 318n) connected to the delay circuit; the activation elements are connectable to the input unit; the delay circuit is configured to generate operation commands (550, 552, 554, 556, 558) in response to receiving the trigger signal; each operation command changes the state of one of the activation elements such that when connected to the input unit, it causes activation of the corresponding one of the operation signals; and at least one of the operation commands is generated with a time delay relative to the trigger signal.

2. The stimulation system according to claim 1, wherein, The main controller (302) is further configured to: when configured to receive the detection signal from the sensor, Based on the detection signal, it is determined that a specified dead time has elapsed since the last use of the elevator car; The trigger signal is sent when it is determined that the specified dead time has elapsed since the last use.

3. The stimulation system according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein, The activation controller (304) is configured to, when connected to the input unit, cause activation of some or all of the predetermined operation signals in a predetermined sequence, such that there is a corresponding delay time period between every two consecutive operation signals in the predetermined sequence.

4. The stimulation system according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein, At least two of the operation commands generated with a time delay relative to the trigger signal are generated with different time delays relative to the trigger signal.

5. The stimulation system according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein, The at least one predetermined operation signal includes one or more of the following: a door opening signal (566), a drive signal to a first floor (572), a drive signal to a second floor different from the first floor (574), an entry signal (562) for allowing entry into the elevator car, and an entry signal (564) for prohibiting entry into the elevator car.

6. The stimulation system according to claim 5, wherein, The at least one predetermined operation signal includes at least one of the door opening signal and the drive signal to the first floor and the drive signal to the second floor; wherein the activation controller is configured to cause activation of the door opening signal prior to activation of at least one of the drive signal to the first floor and the drive signal to the second floor.

7. The stimulation system according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein, The main controller (302) includes at least one sensor input (310) that can be connected to one or more sensors.

8. The stimulation system according to claim 7, wherein, The sensors include one or more of at least one door sensor (245) and at least one car position indicator (243).

9. The stimulation system according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein, Each of the at least one change in the operating state is associated with one or more of the at least one predetermined operating signal.

10. The stimulation system according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein, The main controller (302) is further configured to: An error message is generated when it is determined that at least one change in the operating state did not occur according to at least one predetermined operating signal.

11. The stimulation system according to claim 10, wherein, The main controller (302) is further configured to send the error message to the remote computing entity.

12. The stimulation system according to claim 10, wherein, The error message includes information about which of the at least one changes in the operational state did not occur.

13. The stimulation system according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein, The main controller (302) is further configured to: A success message is generated when it is determined that the at least one change in the operating state has indeed occurred according to the at least one predetermined operating signal.

14. The stimulation system according to claim 13, wherein, The main controller (302) is further configured to send the success message to the remote computing entity.

15. The stimulation system according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein, The at least one change in the operating state includes a first change in the operating state and a second change in the operating state; wherein, the main controller is further configured to: when configured to receive the detection signal from the sensor, After the trigger signal is sent, the detection signal is monitored for the first change in the operating state within a specified first monitoring time period (546); After the trigger signal is sent, the detection signal is monitored for the second change in the operation state within a specified second monitoring period (548), wherein the second monitoring period is longer than the first monitoring period. When the first change in the operating state does not occur during the first monitoring time period, it is determined that the first change in the operating state did not occur according to the at least one predetermined operating signal, and monitoring of whether the second change in the operating state has occurred is stopped.

16. An elevator system comprising an elevator controller (115) and an elevator car (103, 203), the elevator car including an input unit for providing an operation signal to the elevator controller, the elevator system having a sensor for detecting the operation state of the elevator car and outputting a corresponding detection signal; the elevator system further comprising a stimulation system according to any one of the preceding claims; wherein, The main controller is configured to receive the detection signal, and the activation controller is connected to the input unit.

17. A stimulation method for monitoring an elevator system, the elevator system having an elevator car (103, 203), the elevator car (103, 203) having input units (230, 330) for providing operating signals to an elevator controller (115), and the elevator system having a sensor for detecting the operating state of the elevator car and outputting a corresponding detection signal, the method comprising: The main controller (302) sends (404) a trigger signal (406); The activation controller (304) receives the trigger signal (406) at the trigger input terminal (316); In response to the trigger signal (406), the activation controller (304) causes (454, 458, 462, 466, 468) to activate the predetermined operation signal (562, 564, 566, 572, 574) at the input unit; The main controller (302) receives the detection signal from the sensor; and The main controller (302) determines (410, 414) whether at least one change in the operating state has occurred according to the at least one predetermined operating signal based on the detection signal; The activation controller (304) includes a delay circuit (320) connected to the trigger input and activation elements (318a, 318b, 318c, ... 318n) connected to the delay circuit; the activation elements are connectable to the input unit; the delay circuit is configured to generate operation commands (550, 552, 554, 556, 558) in response to receiving the trigger signal; each operation command changes the state of one of the activation elements such that when connected to the input unit, it causes activation of the corresponding one of the operation signals; and at least one of the operation commands is generated with a time delay relative to the trigger signal.

Images