Remote worker monitoring system and remote worker monitoring method

Abstract

The present invention relates to a remote worker monitoring system and a remote worker monitoring method. In performing an inspection work in a hoistway of an elevator, a burden on a manager who manages a work of a monitor worker is reduced. A remote worker monitoring system that monitors an image captured by a camera equipped by a worker in a work of an elevator, wherein there are: an elevator operation permission section (64) that outputs an operation permission signal to an elevator device (21) in a case where a manager has permitted an operation of a car based on a worker after a switch on the car is turned on; a camera operation section (62) that can output an instruction for remotely operating the camera equipped by the worker; and an image confirmation section (63) that displays an image captured by the camera. When the elevator operation permission section (64) outputs the operation permission signal to the elevator device (21), the camera operation section (62) outputs an instruction for starting a recording to the camera, and the image confirmation section (63) displays the image transmitted from the camera.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a remote worker monitoring system and a remote worker monitoring method. Background Technology

[0002] The elevator has a main rope suspended by winches located at the upper and lower ends of the lifting path. The car is suspended at one end of the main rope, and the counterweight is suspended at the other end. By driving the winches to wind up the main rope, the car and counterweight are raised and lowered in a bucket-like manner within the lifting path.

[0003] For example, elevators have equipment located at the top of the elevator shaft and a control panel located at the bottom. During elevator maintenance, workers sometimes enter the elevator car to perform work on this equipment and control panel. Workers must wear safety harnesses when entering the car, but wearable cameras are needed to record usage history. Work performed on the car (hereinafter referred to as "work on the car") is difficult for anyone other than the worker to know what kind of work they are actually doing. Therefore, managers need to constantly check the images from the wearable cameras to identify unsafe actions. However, constantly checking the images becomes a burden for managers, thus posing a challenge.

[0004] Patent Document 1 describes displaying camera images of on-site workers on a remote management terminal. Furthermore, Patent Document 1 describes how sharing these camera images with managers can prevent errors and omissions in the work, thereby improving work quality, and also visualize unsafe elements at the work site to avoid danger and implement effective training.

[0005] Existing technical documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2022-042303 Summary of the Invention

[0007] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0008] However, the technology described in Patent Document 1 requires the manager to constantly monitor the operator's camera images. Therefore, the detection of unsafe actions that occur at the work site, such as when the manager is not present, may be delayed. Furthermore, in order to constantly monitor the operator's camera images, the manager also needs a high level of skill and physical strength. Therefore, considering the possibility of overlooking unsafe actions due to distraction caused by prolonged monitoring, there is a possibility that unsafe actions may be missed.

[0009] This invention was made in view of the actual situation of the prior art, and its purpose is to reduce the burden on the manager by limiting the monitoring of dangerous operations that need to be monitored to the area within the elevator shaft during inspection work.

[0010] Methods for solving problems

[0011] To address the aforementioned issues, one aspect of the present invention provides a remote operator monitoring system that monitors images captured by a camera mounted on the operator during elevator operation. The system comprises: a car switch installed on the car and activated before the operator operates the car; an elevator mechanism that controls the operation of the elevator; and a management terminal used by a manager overseeing the operators.

[0012] The aforementioned management terminal includes: an elevator operation authorization unit, which, after the elevator switch on the car is turned on and the operator has authorized the operation of the car based on the operator's permission, outputs an operation authorization signal to the elevator system; a camera operation unit, which can output instructions for remotely operating the camera installed by the operator; and an image confirmation unit, which displays the images captured by the camera. When the elevator operation authorization unit outputs an operation authorization signal to the elevator system, the camera operation unit outputs a command to the camera to start recording, and the image confirmation unit displays the images transmitted from the camera.

[0013] Invention Effects

[0014] According to at least one aspect of the present invention, when performing inspection work within the elevator's ascending and descending path, the manager does not need to constantly monitor the elevator inspection work, thus reducing the manager's burden.

[0015] Other issues, structures, and effects not mentioned above will be clarified through the following description of the implementation methods. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 This is a rough structural diagram showing the main parts of the elevator.

[0017] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing an outline of the overall structure of a remote operator monitoring system according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 3 These are figures showing examples (1) and (2) of the management terminal screen in the remote operator monitoring system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 4 These are figures illustrating examples (3) and (4) of the management terminal screen in the remote worker monitoring system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Remote monitoring device management terminal screen diagram.

[0020] Figure 5 These are examples (5) to (7) of the management terminal screen in the remote operator monitoring system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 6This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the internal structure of each device constituting the remote operator monitoring system of the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 7 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware structure of a computer included in each device other than the camera that constitutes the remote operator monitoring system of the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 8 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware structure of a computer constituting the camera of the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operator's actions in the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the manager's actions in the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 11 This is a timing diagram illustrating a process example of remote operator monitoring processing in the remote operator monitoring system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 12 These are examples (1) to (3) of the management terminal screen in the remote operator monitoring system according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 13 These are figures illustrating examples (4) and (5) of the management terminal screen in the remote worker monitoring system according to the second embodiment of the present invention. Remote monitoring device management terminal screen diagram.

[0029] Figure 14 These are examples (6) to (8) of the management terminal screen in the remote operator monitoring system according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 15 This is a timing diagram illustrating an example of the remote operator monitoring process of the remote operator monitoring system according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0032] 1…Elevator, 2…Car, 3…Lifting Path, 12…Car Operation Panel, 12a…Car Switch, 20…Operator, 21…Elevator Unit, 22…Elevator Control System, 23…Office Management Terminal, 24…Data Management Server, 25…Camera, 26…Operator Terminal, 31…Photography Department, 32…Operation Department, 33…Communication Department, 34…ID Information Department, 41…Operation Control Department, 42…Car Switch Judgment Department, 43…Status Information Notification Department, 51…Elevator Information Management Department, 52…Status Sending Department, 53…Work Plan Database, 61…Elevator Information Management Department, 62…Camera Operation Department, 63…Image Confirmation Department, 64…Elevator Operation Permit Department, 65…Camera ID Management Department, 66…Work Plan Database, 71…Record Recording Department, 72… Management Department, 81… Registration Department, 82… Output Department, 100… Remote Operator Monitoring System, 110a~110g… Management Terminal Screen, 111… Image Capture Button, 112… Car Status Photo Display Window, 113… Car Operation Permit Window, 114… Real-time Car Status Release Window, 115… Car Status Display Window, 116… Car Status Confirmation Window, 120, 130… Computer, 140a~140g, 140x… Management Terminal Screen, 141… Image Capture Button, 142… Car Status Photo Display Window, 143… Car Operation Permit Window, 144… Real-time Car Status Release Window, 145… Car Status Display Window, 146… Car Status Confirmation Window, A… Manager. Detailed Implementation

[0033] Hereinafter, examples of embodiments for carrying out the present invention (hereinafter referred to as "implementations") will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this specification and the drawings, the same reference numerals are used to denote the same structural elements or structural elements having substantially the same function, and repeated descriptions are omitted. Furthermore, when there are multiple structural elements having the same or identical function, different subscripts are sometimes used to describe the same reference numerals. Additionally, when it is not necessary to distinguish these multiple constituent elements, subscripts are sometimes omitted in the description.

[0034] <First Implementation>

[0035] [Probability structure of elevators]

[0036] First, let's take the elevator as an example, which is the object of work performed by the operator.

[0037] Figure 1 This is a simplified structural diagram showing the main components of the elevator. Figure 1 In this context, elevator 1 is an example of an elevator, which is the object (work site) of an operator 20 performing inspection and other tasks according to a work plan.

[0038] Elevator 1 consists of a car 2, a lifting passage 3 for the car 2, a motor 5 for driving the rope 4, a control panel 6 for the motor 5, a counterweight 7 connected to the car 2 via the rope 4, a pit 9, and a landing door 10. The pit 9, located at the bottom of the elevator, is the space where the car 2 stops or where the buffer 8 of the counterweight 7 is placed. Additionally, elevator 1 has top equipment 11, including a rope end bar (not shown) and a rope tension deviation detection device, installed at the top of the lifting passage 3, and a car top operating panel 12 installed on the car 2 (behind the ceiling). Furthermore, elevator 1 can be considered to have one or more pulleys (not shown).

[0039] The operator can operate the car 2 while boarding the car 2 by manipulating the car top operating panel 12. The signals output by the car top operating panel 12 based on the operator's operation are input to the elevator unit 21 located inside the elevator 1 (e.g., at the top of the lifting passage 3). The elevator unit 21 operates according to the instructions from the car top operating panel 12 and from the terminal responsible for business operations 23 (see reference). Figure 2 The elevator 1 (car 2) is controlled by the instructions of the elevator.

[0040] In this manual, the car is sometimes simply referred to as the "car" as the operation panel 12 on the car 2 operated by the operator 20 on the car 2 for the purpose of operating the car 2. For example, in the following description, the operating switch provided on the operation panel 12 on the car is referred to as the "car switch".

[0041] [Overall Structure of Remote Worker Monitoring System]

[0042] Next, the overall structure of the remote operator monitoring system according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0043] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing a general outline of the overall structure of the remote operator monitoring system according to this embodiment. As an example, Figure 2 The remote worker monitoring system 100 shown comprises an elevator unit 21, an elevator control system 22, a terminal responsible for business office management 23, a camera 25, a data management server 24, and a worker terminal 26. These devices, terminals, and cameras are communicatively connected via a network. The network can be the same communication network or two or more different communication networks.

[0044] Worker 20 is equipped with a camera 25 for acquiring images of the work situation. The camera 25 consists of a terminal that has the function of acquiring (capturing) images and saving the acquired images as image data. For example, the camera 25 may be a wearable camera or the camera function of a smartphone, and can be mounted on the head of worker 20 (e.g., a helmet). The camera 25 registers its ID (Identification) information (hereinafter referred to as "Camera ID") with the branch office management terminal 23, thereby enabling wireless communication with the branch office management terminal 23.

[0045] The branch office management terminal 23 can remotely operate the camera 25, which is registered with a camera ID, according to the instructions of the manager A. For example, the branch office management terminal 23 outputs an instruction to the camera 25 to start image capture (photo capture) or video recording, and receives and displays images of the scene captured by the camera 25. In addition, the branch office management terminal 23 can remotely control the operation (movement, stop, etc.) of the elevator 1 located in the branch office. Furthermore, the branch office management terminal 23 can decide whether to permit or deny the operation of the elevator 1 based on the operator 20. The branch office management terminal 23 displays a management terminal screen for realizing the above-mentioned confirmation of the scene, remote operation of the camera 25, and decision on permit / denial of operation on the elevator car 2 based on the manager A (see the description below). Figures 3-5 ).

[0046] Elevator device 21 is a control device used to control the operation of car 2. Elevator device 21 communicates with elevator control system 22 at all times, sending information related to the status of elevator 1, such as the operating status of elevator 1 and the status of switch 12a on car (elevator information), to elevator control system 22.

[0047] The elevator control system 22 can receive elevator information from the elevator unit 21, and monitor the status of elevator 1 in various buildings, such as its operating status and the status of the switch 12a on the car. Furthermore, the elevator control system 22 uses the operator terminal 26 to register the elevator 1's operation plan based on the operator 20. The elevator control system 22 also sends the elevator information and operation plan of elevator 1 to the management terminal 23 of the responsible business office, which is connected via a network. Moreover, when the elevator control system 22 receives fault information or operation permission signals from elevator 1 within the jurisdiction of the responsible business office, it immediately sends them to the management terminal 23 of the responsible business office.

[0048] Data management server 24 is a server used to record and manage images (video data) acquired by camera 25 installed by operator 20. Data management server 24 manages images (video data) by elevator in a building in conjunction with the work plan. For example, the work plan records the "site name" of the work object, the elevator's "identification information," "operator's name," "scheduled date and time of work," and "work content," etc. As an example, the elevator's identification information is either the "manufacturer's number" or a combination of "site name" and "elevator number." If there is only one elevator at the site (facility), only the "site name" may be used.

[0049] The operator terminal 26 is a terminal equipped with application software (hereinafter referred to as the "work application") used by the operator 20 when performing work. The operator 20 operates the work application to register work plans or report work progress. As the operator terminal 26, it can utilize smartphones, tablet terminals, etc.

[0050] [Management Terminal Screen]

[0051] Here, refer to Figures 3-5 The management terminal screen displayed on the display device responsible for the management of the business office 23 will be described.

[0052] Figure 3 These are examples (1) and (2) of the management terminal screen in the remote operator monitoring system 100.

[0053] Figure 4 These are examples (3) and (4) of the management terminal screen in the remote worker monitoring system 100 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5 These are examples (5) to (7) of the management terminal screen in the remote operator monitoring system 100 of this embodiment.

[0054] exist Figure 3 In the examples (1) and (2) of the management terminal screens displayed on the management terminal 23 of the business office, management terminal screens 110a and 110b are shown. In the management terminal screens, each item, such as "site name", "manufacturing number", "machine number", "work content", "operator name", "camera ID", "elevator status" and "camera operation", is displayed in a list format according to the building.

[0055] "Site name" is the name of the site registered in the work plan or the site where the operator performs the work. For example, the name of a building with an elevator can be used as a site name.

[0056] A "manufacturing number" is a unique identifier assigned to each elevator by the elevator manufacturer for management purposes. It serves as a unique identifier for each elevator. Furthermore, as... Figure 3 As shown, the elevator can be identified simply by knowing the "site name" and "machine number," therefore, a manufacturing number is not required.

[0057] "Elevator number" is used to identify elevators when there are multiple elevators in the same site (facility).

[0058] "Work content" refers to information about the work content based on operator 20, such as the inspection, cleaning, adjustment, and replacement of parts.

[0059] "Operator Name" is information representing the name of operator 20. The operator name only needs to be information that can identify the operator, so it can also be an identifier such as an employee code.

[0060] "Camera ID" is the identification information of the camera 25 used by the operator 20 for taking pictures.

[0061] "Elevator Status" indicates the current status of elevator device 21. For example, in the management terminal screens 110a and 110b, "Elevator Status" displays "Maintenance Operation", "Stopped", "Normal Operation", and "Car Switch On".

[0062] "Camera Operation" indicates information about the operation performed on camera 25 or the current status of camera 25. For example, in management terminal screens 110b and 110d, "Image Capture Button" and "Capturing" are displayed as "Camera Operation." Figure 4 As shown, an image capture button can also be displayed in the management terminal screen.

[0063] exist Figure 3 In the example, the "elevator status" of the corresponding elevator (machine number) is highlighted so that it is known which elevator (machine number) requires the supervision of operator 20. Here, a portion of the record ("elevator status") of the corresponding elevator (machine number) is highlighted with a thick line, but the entire record can also be highlighted.

[0064] The management terminal screen 110a is the car switch 12a installed on the car operating panel 12 (see reference). Figure 6 Example of the previous management terminal screen. The operation mode of elevator 1 is changed to maintenance operation mode through remote operation by operator 20 or the management terminal 23 of the business office.

[0065] The management terminal screen 110b is an example of a management terminal screen that displays "Car Switch ON" indicating that the car switch 12a is ON, and an image capture button 111 for the administrator A to remotely operate the camera 25 to take pictures. Furthermore, during real-time broadcasting based on the camera 25, as described later, a "Recording Start" button for starting recording can also be displayed.

[0066] exist Figure 4 In the example (3) and (4) of the management terminal screen displayed on the management terminal 23 of the business office, management terminal screens 110c and 110d are shown.

[0067] The management terminal screen 110c is an example of a car condition photo display window 112 that pops up on the management terminal screen, displaying an image (photo) of the condition of the car 2 taken by the camera 25, and a car operation permission window 113 operated by the manager A. The car operation permission window 113 displays a "Yes" button (allow car operation if permitted based on operator 20's permission) and a "No" button (deny car operation if not permitted). Furthermore, the image used to confirm the condition of the car 2 can also be a moving image.

[0068] The management terminal screen 110d is an example of a real-time status display window 114 on the car that pops up on the management terminal screen. The real-time status display window 114 on the car displays camera images (moving images) captured in real time from the camera 25 installed by the operator 20, showing the status of the car 2. In the real-time display, the display content of "Camera Operation" switches to "Capturing".

[0069] exist Figure 5 In the example (5) to (7) of the management terminal screen displayed on the management terminal 23 of the business office, management terminal screens 110e to 110g are shown.

[0070] The management terminal screen 110e is an example of "Car switch restored" displayed in the management terminal screen 110d, indicating that the car switch 12a has been restored (OFF).

[0071] The management terminal screen 110f is an example of a car condition display window 115 that pops up on the management terminal screen, displaying a photograph (still image) of the condition of the car 2 taken by the camera 25, and a car condition confirmation window 116 operated by the manager A. The car condition display window 115 displays an image (still image) cropped from the moving image taken by the camera 25. Additionally, the car condition confirmation window 116 displays an "OK" button selected by the manager A if the condition of the car 2 is satisfactory, and an "NG" button selected by the manager A if the condition of the car 2 is problematic.

[0072] The management terminal screen 110g displays an example of "Stopped" or "Camera Operation" under "Video Recording Stopped," indicating that the elevator device 21 has stopped due to the cancellation of the "Car Operation Permission" caused by the restoration of the switch 12a on the car. When the "Car Operation Permission" is cancelled, the operator 20 cannot operate the car 2.

[0073] [Internal structure of each device in the remote worker monitoring system]

[0074] Next, refer to Figure 6 The internal structure of each device constituting the remote operator monitoring system 100 will be described.

[0075] Figure 6 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the internal structure of each device constituting the remote operator monitoring system 100.

[0076] (camera)

[0077] The camera 25 includes: a shooting unit 31, an operation unit 32, a communication unit 33, and an ID information unit 34.

[0078] The imaging unit 31 captures (acquires) an image of the work object of the operator 20. For example, the imaging unit 31 uses an imaging element that obtains image data by converting light captured through an optical lens into an electrical signal.

[0079] The operation unit 32 is a user interface that generates operation signals corresponding to the input operations of the operator 20 and outputs them to the imaging unit 31, etc. It is composed of a shutter button or other push button and a touch panel. In addition, the operation unit 32 has the function of generating operation signals based on instructions from the camera operation unit 62 of the branch office management terminal 23 and outputting them to the imaging unit 31. As a result, the branch office management terminal 23 can remotely operate the camera 25.

[0080] The communication unit 33 is an interface for communication with the branch office management terminal 23 and the data management server 24 via the network. The communication unit 33 sends the images captured by the imaging unit 31, along with the camera ID, to the branch office management terminal 23 and the data management server 24.

[0081] The ID information unit 34 stores the ID information (camera ID) of the camera 25. The camera ID stored in the ID information unit 34 is sent to the branch office management terminal 23.

[0082] (Elevator installation)

[0083] The elevator unit 21 includes: an operation control unit 41, a car switch determination unit 42, and a status information notification unit 43.

[0084] The operation control unit 41 controls the operation of the car 2 of elevator 1 based on car calls, destination floor registration, etc. In addition, when the operation control unit 41 receives the activation signal of the car switch 12a from the car operation panel 12 and the operation permission signal from the elevator operation permission unit 64 responsible for the business office management terminal 23, the operation control unit 41 controls the operation of the car 2 based on the operation of the operator 20 on the car operation panel 12.

[0085] The car switch determination unit 42 determines whether the car switch 12a is detected to be turned on (ON state) based on the signal received by the operation control unit 41 from the car operation disk 12. The signal received by the car switch determination unit 42 from the operation control unit 2 can be a signal that maintains the waveform of the signal output from the car operation disk 12, or it can be a signal that has undergone arbitrary processing.

[0086] The status information notification unit 43 receives the determination result from the car switch determination unit 42 and notifies the elevator control system 22 of the status (ON or OFF) of the car switch 12a. Additionally, the status information notification unit 43 notifies the elevator control system 22 of the operating status of the elevator 1. In a broader sense, the information indicating the status of the car switch 12a can also be considered as information indicating the operating status of the elevator 1.

[0087] (Elevator control system)

[0088] The elevator control system 22 includes: an elevator information management department 51, a status transmission department 52, and a work plan database 53.

[0089] The elevator information management department 51 manages information related to elevators 1 installed throughout Japan. The elevator information management department 51 receives information from the status information notification department 43 of the elevator device 21 in each elevator 1, indicating the status of the switch 12a on the car and the operating status of the elevator 1. In addition, the elevator information management department 51 accepts work plans registered by operators 20 using operator terminals 26 and stores these work plans in the work plan database 53.

[0090] The status transmission unit 52 sends information related to elevator 1, such as malfunctions, to the management terminal 23 of the responsible business office. The information sent here is the current status of elevator 1.

[0091] The work plan database 53 is a database that stores the work plans of operators 20 registered using operator terminals 26, etc.

[0092] (Responsible for managing the branch office terminals)

[0093] The terminal 23 responsible for the management of the business premises includes: an elevator information management department 61, a camera operation department 62, an image confirmation department 63, an elevator operation permit department 64, a camera ID management department 65, and a work plan database 66.

[0094] The elevator information management department 61 differs from the elevator information management department 51 of the elevator control system 22; it manages information related to elevator 1 under the jurisdiction of the responsible business office. The elevator information management department 61 receives and manages information related to elevator 1 sent by the status transmission department 52 of the elevator control system 22. Additionally, the elevator information management department 61 receives work plans from the operator 20 from the responsible business office management terminal 23 and stores these work plans in the work plan database 66.

[0095] The camera operation unit 62 is a program block having a user interface screen for remotely operating the camera 25 mounted on the operator 20. The camera operation unit 62 is based on the manager A (refer to...). Figure 2 The system outputs instructions for remotely operating the camera 25 at the site, as instructed by the camera ID management unit 65. It retrieves the ID information of the camera 25 to be operated from the camera ID management unit 65.

[0096] Image verification unit 63 is a program block used by manager A to verify the situation at the work site where operator 20 is performing work. It displays the image captured by camera 25 (hereinafter also referred to as "camera image") output from communication unit 33 of camera 25 on the management terminal screen. The camera image is a photograph or a video image. In addition, image verification unit 63 extracts an image from the video image captured by camera 25 and displays the extracted image (still image) on the management terminal screen.

[0097] The elevator operation authorization unit 64 is a program block with a user interface screen that operates (e.g., by pressing) when the switch 12a on the car is turned on and the manager A confirms there are no problems based on the image displayed by the image confirmation unit 63. For example, the elevator operation authorization unit 64 is equivalent to the car operation authorization window 113 displayed on the management terminal screen. The elevator operation authorization unit 64 sends an operation authorization signal to the operation control unit 41 of the elevator device 21 of the elevator to which the authorization is to be granted.

[0098] The camera ID management unit 65 manages the ID information (camera ID) of the camera 25. For example, the camera ID management unit 65 obtains the camera ID from the ID information unit 34 of the camera 25 and provides the camera ID to the camera operation unit 62 and the management unit 72 of the data management server 24.

[0099] The work plan database 66 is a database that stores the work plans of the operators 20 received from the elevator control system 22.

[0100] The branch office management terminal 23 extracts the work plan corresponding to the camera ID received from the camera 25 from the work plan database 66 and sends it to the data management server 24.

[0101] (Data Management Server)

[0102] The data management server 24 has a recording department 71 and a management department 72.

[0103] The recording unit 71 records the images (video data) captured by the camera 25 and transmitted from the communication unit 33 of the camera 25, along with the work plan that matches the camera ID.

[0104] The management department 72 manages the images (video data) recorded by the recording department 71 based on the work plan received from the management terminal 23 of the business office.

[0105] (Operator Terminal)

[0106] The operator terminal 26 has a registration section 81 and an output section 82.

[0107] Registration Unit 81 is a program block that provides a user interface screen for operators 20 to register work plans with the elevator control system 22. Additionally, operators 20 can register their name and the ID information (camera ID) of the camera used with the responsible business office management terminal 23 through Registration Unit 81.

[0108] Output unit 82 outputs a registration screen for operator 20 to register operator name, camera ID, and work plan. Additionally, output unit 82 outputs data received from the branch office management terminal 23, from manager A regarding car operation permit window 113. Figure 4The permission / disallowment selection result, and the status confirmation window 116 on the car. Figure 5 The confirmation result is as follows. The output method is not limited to image display; it can also be sound output, or a combination of image and sound with vibration output.

[0109] Furthermore, the elevator control system 22 and the branch office management terminal 23 can be configured to share information at any time. This information is shared (registered between the two parties) by registering the work plan, operator name, and camera ID with either the elevator control system 22 or the branch office management terminal 23. Alternatively, the functions of the operator terminal 26 described above can be stored in the camera 25. Or, the functions of the camera 25 can be integrated into the operator terminal 26.

[0110] [Hardware structure of each device in the remote operator monitoring system]

[0111] Next, refer to Figure 7 as well as Figure 8 The hardware structure of the elevator device 21, elevator control system 22, business office management terminal 23, data management server 24, camera 25, and operator terminal 26 in the remote operator monitoring system 100 is described.

[0112] (All devices other than the camera)

[0113] Figure 7 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the computer hardware structure of each device other than the camera 25 constituting the remote operator monitoring system 100.

[0114] Computer 120 is an example of hardware used as a computer, capable of cooperating with various devices to operate as a remote operator monitoring system 100. Each device executes programs through its respective computer 120 (computer) to achieve... Figure 6 The remote operator monitoring system 100 (remote operator monitoring method) is implemented by the functional blocks of the various devices shown in cooperation.

[0115] The computer 120 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 121, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 122, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 123, all connected to a bus. Furthermore, the computer 120 includes a display device 124, an input device 125, non-volatile memory 126, and a network interface 127.

[0116] The CPU 121 (an example of a control unit) reads the program code of the software implementing the functions of this embodiment from the ROM 122 and loads it into the RAM 123 for execution. Variables, parameters, etc., generated during the CPU 121's processing are temporarily written into the RAM 123, and the CPU 121 reads these variables, parameters, etc., as appropriate. The CPU 121 executes the program code read from the ROM 122, thereby implementing the functions of each functional block within each device. However, other processors such as an MPU (Micro Processing Unit) can be used instead of the CPU 121.

[0117] The display device 124 is a monitor such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) that displays GUI images, the results of processing by the CPU 121, etc. The input device 125 generates operation signals corresponding to the user's input operations and outputs them to the CPU 121. The input device 125 may be, for example, a mouse or keyboard, allowing the user to operate it to input information or give instructions. The display device 124 and the input device 125 may also be integrated into a touch panel.

[0118] The non-volatile memory 126 may be, for example, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), an optical disc, a CD-ROM, or a non-volatile recorder. In addition to the OS (Operating System) and various parameters, the non-volatile memory 126 may also record programs used to enable the computer 120 to function. The ROM 122 and the non-volatile memory 126 record programs, data, etc., required for the CPU 121 to perform its operations, serving as an example of a computer-readable, non-transitory storage medium storing programs executed by the computer 120.

[0119] The network interface 127, for example, uses a NIC (Network Interface Card) and can transmit and receive various data between devices via a LAN (Local Area Network) or dedicated line connected to the NIC. For example, the status information notification unit 43 of the elevator device 21 and the status transmission unit 52 of the elevator control system 22 are configured using the network interface 127.

[0120] The program blocks of computer 120 can also be selected and omitted in accordance with the functions and purposes of the aforementioned devices. For example, if the display device 124 and the input device 125 are not required for elevator device 21 and data management server 24, they can be removed.

[0121] (camera)

[0122] Figure 8 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware structure of the computer 130 incorporated in the camera 25.

[0123] Computer 130 is an example of hardware used as a computer. Camera 25 executes programs via computer 130 (computer). Figure 6 The functional blocks of the camera 25 shown cooperate to operate.

[0124] The computer 130 includes a CPU 131, a ROM 132, and a RAM 133, all connected to a bus. Furthermore, the computer 130 also includes a display device 134, an input device 135, non-volatile memory 136, a network interface 137, and a camera element CA.

[0125] CPU13 (an example of a control unit) 1, ROM 132, RAM 133, display device 134, input device 135, non-volatile memory 136, and network interface 137 have the same functions as program blocks with the same names as those in the computer 120 described above.

[0126] An image sensor CA is a device that obtains image data by converting input light into electrical signals. The imaging unit 31 is composed of an image sensor CA.

[0127] The elevator control system 22, the business office management terminal 23, the operator terminal 26, and the camera 25 may also have a sound output unit.

[0128] [The worker's actions]

[0129] Next, refer to Figure 9 The actions of worker 20, who is performing work on the car 2 of elevator 1, are described.

[0130] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the actions of operator 20 in this embodiment, specifically the process of performing work on elevator car 2. First, operator 20 creates a work plan, such as an inspection plan, using the work application on operator terminal 26, and registers it in the work plan database 53 of the branch office management terminal 23 via elevator control system 22. When creating the work plan, operator 20 sends the ID information stored in the ID information unit 34 of camera 25 along with the operator's name to the branch office management terminal 23, registering it in the camera ID management unit 65 of the branch office management terminal 23 (S1). Various methods are considered for creating work plans using the work application; therefore, detailed explanations are omitted.

[0131] Next, operator 20 moves to the site of the object designated in the work plan and prepares to use camera 25 on-site. Operator 20 assembles camera 25 on headgear (helmet) (S2). Then, after assembling camera 25, operator 20 turns on the power to camera 25 (S3). Additionally, operator 20 switches the object's elevator to maintenance operation mode (e.g., referring to management terminal screen 110a). Figure 3 (Superior level). Manager A can also remotely switch the elevator of the object to maintenance operation mode through the management terminal 23 of the business office.

[0132] Next, the operator 20 moves to the elevator hall door 10 of the elevator 1 where the operation is being performed and unlocks the elevator hall door 10 (S4). For example, the operator unlocks the elevator hall door 10 of the base floor or the elevator hall door 10 of the floor near the pit 9.

[0133] Next, operator 20 climbs onto car 2 (behind the ceiling) and turns on the car switch 12a (S5) of the car switch 12 located on car 2. When car switch 12a is turned on, "Car switch on" is displayed in the "Elevator Status" section of the management terminal 23. After turning on car switch 12a, operator 20 observes the back of the ceiling and the lifting passage 3 of car 2 for taking photos.

[0134] When manager A, who operates the branch office management terminal 23, authorizes operation of the car 2 via elevator operation authorization unit 64 based on the image (photo) captured by camera 25, the elevator device 21 can receive the operation authorization signal and operate the car 2. Operator 20 observes the display content on the output unit 82 of the operator terminal 26 to confirm that operation of the car is authorized. Alternatively, the operator 20 can confirm that operation of the car is authorized by sound output from camera 25.

[0135] Furthermore, based on the work plan, operator 20 begins real-time image transmission from camera 25 (i.e., the head-mounted camera) corresponding to the camera ID registered with the work plan. Camera 25 begins transmitting camera images according to the instruction sent from the branch office management terminal 23 to begin recording. Afterward, operator 20 begins inspection and other operations on the car 2 (S6).

[0136] In order to carry out the target operation, the operator 20 operates the car 2 via the car operation panel 12 (S7). The operator 20 performs the predetermined operation within the lifting passage 3 and ends the operation on the car 2 (S8).

[0137] Next, after the operation is completed, operator 20 disconnects (restores) switch 12a on the car (S9). As a result, operator 20 is unable to operate the car 2 on the car 2.

[0138] Next, after manager A confirms the condition of the elevator car 2 (behind the ceiling) via the image verification unit 63 of the branch office management terminal 23, operator 20 receives a notification from manager A at operator terminal 26 indicating that there are no problems with the condition of the elevator car (S10). Additionally, parallel to the notification indicating that there are no problems with the condition of the elevator car, camera 25 receives a recording stop command from the branch office management terminal 23, and recording by camera 25 stops (shooting ends). Furthermore, the notification indicating that there are no problems with the condition of the elevator car can also be received by camera 25.

[0139] Operator 20 descends from above car 2 and closes the elevator hall door 10 for access to and from car 2 (S11). Then, operator 20 exits the site where the work was carried out based on the work plan (S12). After step S12, the series of actions performed by operator 20 to carry out the work ends.

[0140] [Managerial Actions]

[0141] Next, refer to Figure 10 The actions of the manager A of the business office responsible for the remote management of operator 20's work (especially the work on car 2) are explained.

[0142] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the actions of manager A in this embodiment.

[0143] When a work plan is registered to the management terminal 23 of the responsible branch office, the work plan can be output on the management terminal 23 via the management application software. The manager A of the responsible branch office confirms the work plan registered by the operator 20 and the camera ID associated with the work plan through the management terminal 23 of the responsible branch office. If there are no problems, the work plan is approved (S21).

[0144] When operator 20 activates the car switch 12a of elevator 1 at the registered site based on the work plan, the elevator device 21 sends a signal to the elevator control system 22 indicating that the car switch 12a has been activated. Furthermore, the status transmission unit 52 of the elevator control system 22 sends the status information of elevator 1 to the management terminal 23 of the responsible business office. Manager A confirms that the activation signal of the car switch 12a has been received from the registered site in the work plan at the management terminal 23 of the responsible business office (S22).

[0145] Manager A confirms the "Car switch on" display on the management terminal screen (for example, refer to...). Figure 3The lower management terminal screen 110b) can identify that the operator 20 is located on the car 2. The car switch 12a has the function of notifying the operator 20 located on the car 2 of their presence and requesting permission to operate the car 2.

[0146] Next, manager A presses the image capture button 111 on the management terminal screen to remotely operate the camera 25 mounted on the operator 20 in the car 2 to capture the condition of the car 2 (S23). The camera 25 sends the captured image (photo) to the management terminal 23 of the business office.

[0147] Next, Manager A checks the image captured by camera 25 on the management terminal screen. If the condition of the car before operation is deemed satisfactory, Manager A presses the "Yes" button on the car operation permission window 113 displayed on the management terminal screen (for example, refer to...). Figure 4 The management terminal screen at the top (110c)(S24). Before the operator 20 is ready to start work on the car 2, the manager A does not press the permission to start the car.

[0148] Situations where workers are not ready to begin work on car 2 include, for example, situations where workers 20 are not ready to board car 2 (e.g., the car stop switch on the car operation panel 12 is not engaged), or situations where items unrelated to the work are placed on car 2. If the manager A determines that there is a problem with the condition of the car before work begins, the manager A will press the "No" button to prohibit car operation, notify the workers 20 that there is a problem with the condition of the car, and remotely instruct them to take appropriate action.

[0149] Next, manager A takes images through camera 25 (e.g., refer to...). Figure 4 The management terminal screen 110d in the lower section confirms the work status of the operator 20 in real time (S25).

[0150] After operator 20 completes their work on car 2, they restore (disconnect) the car top switch 12a. When the car top switch 12a is restored, the elevator unit 21 sends a restoration signal for the car top switch 12a to the elevator control system 22, and the branch office management terminal 23 receives the restoration signal from the status transmission unit 52 of the elevator control system 22. Furthermore, in the branch office management terminal 23, "Car top switch restored" is displayed in the "Elevator Status" section of the management terminal screen (for example, see...). Figure 5 The upper section of the management terminal screen 110e). At this time, for example, the image capture button 111 (illustration omitted) is displayed in the "Camera Operation" section of the management terminal screen.

[0151] Next, the manager A presses the image capture button 111 on the management terminal screen to remotely operate the camera 25 mounted on the operator 20 on the car 2 to capture the condition on the car 2 (behind the ceiling) (S26). Here, the manager A's operation on the camera 25 is to extract an image (still image) from the moving image captured by the camera 25.

[0152] Next, administrator A, on the management terminal screen (for example, referring to...), Figure 5 The image captured from the moving image taken by the camera 25 is confirmed on the management terminal screen 110f in the middle section. Furthermore, if the manager A determines from the management terminal screen that there are no problems with the condition of the car after the operation, they press the "OK" button in the car condition confirmation window 116 displayed on the management terminal screen to notify the operator 20's operator terminal 26 that there are no problems with the car condition. A notification indicating that there are no problems with the car condition can also be sent to the camera 25.

[0153] Furthermore, in cases where there are problems with the condition of the car after the operation, such as checking if the lights are on during operation in car 2, or keeping the handrails in an assembled state when operating in elevator 1 which has no machine room, if the manager A determines that there are problems with the condition of the car after the operation, he presses the "NG" button to notify the operator 20 that there are problems with the condition of the car and remotely instructs the operator to take appropriate action.

[0154] Additionally, the terminal 23 responsible for managing the business premises sends a recording stop command to the camera 25 in parallel with a notification indicating that there are no problems with the condition of the car, thus stopping the recording by the camera 25 (S27). After step S27 is completed, the series of actions used for remotely monitoring the work of the operator 20 ends.

[0155] [Remote Operator Monitoring Processing in Remote Operator Monitoring Systems]

[0156] Next, refer to Figure 11 The remote worker monitoring process of the remote worker monitoring system 100 of the first embodiment will be described.

[0157] Figure 11 This is a timing diagram illustrating a process example of remote worker monitoring processing in the remote worker monitoring system 100 of the first embodiment.

[0158] As a prerequisite, operator 20 uses operator terminal 26 to formulate a work plan, registers the work plan with elevator control system 22 (S51), and sends the registered work plan to the branch office management terminal 23. In elevator control system 22, elevator information management department 51 receives the registration of the work plan created by operator 20 from registration department 81 of operator terminal 26 and saves the work plan in work plan database 53. Additionally, elevator information management department 51 sends the work plan to elevator information management department 61, which is responsible for branch office management terminal 23. Elevator information management department 61 saves the work plan sent from elevator information management department 51 in work plan database 66.

[0159] Additionally, operator 20 registers the operator's name and the camera ID of the camera 25 used with the camera ID management department 55 of the business office management terminal 23 via the registration department 81 of operator terminal 26 (S61). Furthermore, the order of steps S51 and S61 may also be different.

[0160] Next, when the car switch determination unit 42 of the elevator device 21 at the site (elevator 1 of the work object) based on the work plan detects that the car switch 12a is turned on, the status information notification unit 43 of the elevator device 21 sends a signal to turn on the car switch 12a to the elevator information management unit 51 of the elevator control system 22 (S41).

[0161] Next, based on the work plan, the elevator information management department 51 of the elevator control system 22 sends an activation signal (S52) to the elevator information management department 61 of the management terminal 23 of the registered site of the management office to activate the car switch 12a.

[0162] Next, when the elevator information management department 61, responsible for the business office management terminal 23, receives the activation signal of the car switch 12a from the elevator control system 22, the image confirmation department 53, responsible for the business office management terminal 23, displays "Car switch activated" in the "Elevator Status" section of the management terminal screen. Additionally, the image confirmation department 53 displays the image capture button 111 (see reference) in the "Camera Operation" section of the management terminal screen. Figure 3 (Lower layer).

[0163] Next, when the camera operation unit 52 of the branch office management terminal 23 detects that the image capture button 111 has been pressed, it remotely operates the camera 25 installed by the operator 20 located on-site based on the work plan (S62), and captures the situation on the car 2 through the camera 25 (S31). The branch office management terminal 23 has prior knowledge of the correspondence between the camera ID of the camera 25 and the connection information (IP address, MAC address, email address or message account, etc.) of the operator terminal 26 or the camera 25. In addition, the camera 25 also has knowledge of the connection information of the branch office management terminal 23.

[0164] Next, camera 25 sends the image (photo) of the situation on car 2 captured by the camera to the branch office management terminal 23 via communication unit 33. At this time, camera 25 sends at least its own camera ID along with the image (photo). Furthermore, the image confirmation unit 53 of the branch office management terminal 23 displays the car situation photo display window 112 (see reference) on the management terminal screen. Figure 4 (Upper layer)(S63).

[0165] When the image of the car 2 taken from the camera is displayed on the management terminal screen of the management terminal 23, the elevator operation permission unit 54 displays the permission to operate the car ("Yes") button and the disallowance to operate the car ("No") button in the car operation permission window 113 on the management terminal screen (S64). That is, the elevator operation permission unit 54 enables the operation of the permission to operate the car and the disallowance to operate the car. Based on the camera image obtained in step S31, and assuming there are no problems with the condition of the car before operation, the manager A presses the permission to operate the car.

[0166] Next, the elevator operation permission unit 55, which is responsible for the business office management terminal 23, sends an operation permission signal to the elevator unit 21 when it detects that the permission car operation button has been pressed. As a result, the operator 20 can operate the car 2 of the elevator 1 on site (S42). Furthermore, when the camera operation unit 62, which is responsible for the business office management terminal 23, detects that the permission car operation button has been pressed, it remotely operates the camera 25 installed by the operator 20 based on the work plan and starts recording (S32).

[0167] Operator 20 performs work on car 2. Figure 9 After steps S6 to S8), the car switch 12a is restored (disconnected). When the car switch determination unit 42 of the elevator device 21 detects that the car switch 12a has been restored, the status information notification unit 43 of the elevator device 21 sends a restoration signal of the car switch 12a to the elevator information management unit 51 of the elevator control system 22 (S43).

[0168] Next, based on the work plan, the elevator information management department 51 of the elevator control system 22 sends a restoration signal (S53) to the elevator information management department 61 of the business office management terminal 23, which is responsible for the registered site, to the car switch 12a.

[0169] Next, when the elevator information management department 61, responsible for the business office management terminal 23, receives the restoration signal of the car switch 12a from the elevator control system 22, the image confirmation department 53, responsible for the business office management terminal 23, displays "Car switch restored" in the "Elevator Status" section of the management terminal screen. Additionally, the image confirmation department 53 displays the image capture button 111 (see reference) in the "Camera Operation" section of the management terminal screen. Figure 3 (Lower layer).

[0170] Next, when the camera operation unit 52 of the business office management terminal 23 detects that the image capture button 111 has been pressed, it remotely operates the camera 25 installed by the operator 20 located on site based on the work plan (S65), and the camera 25 captures a still image of the condition on the car 2 (S33). In this embodiment, the camera 25 extracts an image (still image) from the captured dynamic image and outputs it.

[0171] Next, camera 25 transmits the image (still image) of the condition on car 2 captured by the communication unit 33 to the branch office management terminal 23. Furthermore, the image confirmation unit 53 of the branch office management terminal 23 displays the car condition display window 115 on the management terminal screen (see reference). Figure 5 (Middle section) (S66). Furthermore, the image confirmation unit 53, responsible for the business office management terminal 23, displays the image obtained from capturing the condition of the car 2 on the management terminal screen, and displays the car condition confirmation window 116 (see reference) on the management terminal screen. Figure 5 (Middle layer).

[0172] Based on the camera image obtained in step S33, if the condition of the car after the operation is satisfactory, manager A presses the "OK" button on the car condition confirmation window 116. Consequently, the image confirmation unit 53 of the branch office management terminal 23, upon detecting the pressing of the "OK" button, notifies the operator terminal 26 (or camera 25) that the condition of the car after the operation is satisfactory (S67).

[0173] In addition, when the "OK" button on the status confirmation window 116 of the car is pressed on the terminal 23 of the business office, a recording stop command is sent to the camera 25 in parallel with a notification indicating that there is no problem with the status of the car, and the recording of the camera 25 is ended by remote operation (S34).

[0174] Camera 25 sends video recording data to data management server 24. Data management server 24 records and manages the video recording data received from camera 25, associating it with the work plan and camera ID. The work plan and camera ID are stored in data management server 24 at specific times (e.g., steps S51, S61) registered with the branch office management terminal 23. Furthermore, when recording by camera 25 ends, the video recording data is stored in the area of ​​data management server 24 that contains the work plan and camera ID information.

[0175] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the structure of the camera 25 installed by the operator 20 at the site is described after the management terminal 23 receives the restoration signal from the switch 12a on the car, but it is not limited to this example. For example, after the management terminal 23 receives the restoration signal from the switch 12a on the car, the image confirmation unit 53 of the management terminal 23 may capture a still image from the moving image (video data) sent by the camera 25 and display it in the status display window 115 on the car.

[0176] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the business premises management device 23 obtains information (status information) and work plans related to the elevator 1 from the elevator control system 22, but this is not limited to this example. For example, a structure in which the business premises management device 23 does not obtain information and work plans related to the elevator 1 through the elevator control system 22 is also considered.

[0177] As described above, the remote operator monitoring system of this embodiment is a remote operator monitoring system that monitors images captured by a camera mounted on the operator during elevator operation. It includes: a car switch installed on the car and turned on before the operator operates the car; an elevator device that controls the operation of the elevator; and a management terminal used by a manager who manages the operators.

[0178] The management terminal includes: an elevator operation authorization unit, which outputs an operation authorization signal to the elevator system after the elevator switch is turned on and the operator has authorized the operation of the car; a camera operation unit, which outputs instructions for remotely operating the camera installed by the operator; and an image confirmation unit, which displays the images captured by the camera. When the elevator operation authorization unit outputs an operation authorization signal to the elevator system, the camera operation unit outputs an instruction to start recording to the camera, and the image confirmation unit displays the images transmitted from the camera.

[0179] According to this embodiment of the structure described above, since the manager remotely operates the operator's camera based on the activation information of the switch on the car during inspection work within the elevator's ascending and descending path, the manager does not need to constantly monitor the elevator inspection work, thus reducing the manager's burden. Furthermore, according to this embodiment, dangerous work is not delegated to the operator; elevator operation permits can be issued with the manager's confirmation. Therefore, on-site safety management can be carried out by both the manager and the operator.

[0180] In addition, in the remote operator monitoring system of this embodiment, after the switch on the car is turned on and before the operator on the car starts working, the camera operation unit outputs an instruction to take a picture with the camera according to the manager's instructions, and the image confirmation unit displays the picture taken by the camera.

[0181] Furthermore, in the remote operator monitoring system of this embodiment, the elevator operation permission unit disables operator-based car operation after the switch on the car is turned on, without confirming the operator's permission for car operation.

[0182] Furthermore, in the remote operator monitoring system of this embodiment, the operator's performance of the tasks included in the work plan is managed by images associated with the work plan and camera identification information.

[0183] <Second Implementation>

[0184] In the event of a malfunction or abnormality in elevator 1 or similar equipment, repair work must be carried out as soon as possible to determine the cause. Therefore, as a second embodiment, an example of a situation where unplanned work occurs at a site where no work plan has been registered will be described. The structure of the remote operator monitoring system in this embodiment is basically the same as that of the remote operator monitoring system in the first embodiment.

[0185] [Management Terminal Screen]

[0186] Reference Figures 12-14 This document describes the management terminal screen displayed on the display device of the business office management terminal 23 when an abnormality occurs in elevator 1.

[0187] Figure 12 These are examples (1) to (3) of the management terminal screen in the remote operator monitoring system 100 of this embodiment. Figure 13 These are examples (4) and (5) of the management terminal screen in the remote operator monitoring system 100 of this embodiment. Figure 14 These are examples (6) to (8) of the management terminal screen in the remote operator monitoring system 100 of this embodiment.

[0188] exist Figure 12 In the examples (1) to (3) of the management terminal screens displayed on the management terminal 23 for the business office, management terminal screens 140x, 140a, and 140b are shown. Management terminal screens 140a and 140b are... Figure 3 The management terminal screens 110a and 110b correspond to each other.

[0189] Management terminal screen 140x is an example of a management terminal screen displayed when an anomaly occurs at a site where no work plan has been created (e.g., an elevator). The "Elevator Status" record associated with the corresponding elevator displays "Anomaly Occurred." Since this is an elevator without a work plan, it is related to... Figure 3 Unlike other systems, the fields for "Work Content," "Operator Name," and "Camera ID" are empty. For example, the operation control unit 41 of elevator device 21 detects equipment malfunctions and abnormalities by analyzing the detection signals from sensors (not shown) installed at various locations on elevator 1. The detection results of malfunctions and abnormalities are then sent as elevator information to the management terminal 23 of the business office.

[0190] The management terminal screen 140a is the car switch 12a installed on the car's operating panel 12 (see reference). Figure 6 Here is an example of the management terminal screen before connection. The operator 20, who is dispatched to the site, inputs the minimum information through the operator terminal 26, thereby displaying information in "Job Content", "Operator Name", and "Camera ID".

[0191] The management terminal screen 140b is an example of a management terminal screen that displays "Car switch on" and image capture button 111.

[0192] exist Figure 13 In the examples (4) and (5) of the management terminal screens displayed on the management terminal 23 for the business office, management terminal screens 140c and 140d are shown. Management terminal screens 140c and 140d are... Figure 3 The management terminal screens 110c and 110d correspond to each other.

[0193] The management terminal screen 140c is an example of a window 112 displaying a photo of the car's status and a window 113 displaying the car's operation permission.

[0194] The management terminal screen 140d is an example of a real-time status display window 114 on the car that pops up on the management terminal screen. The display content of "Camera Operation" is switched to "Taking pictures".

[0195] exist Figure 14In the example (6) to (8) of the management terminal screen displayed on the management terminal 23 for the business office, management terminal screens 140e to 140g are shown. Management terminal screens 140e to 140g and... Figure 3 The management terminal screen corresponds to 110e~110g.

[0196] Management terminal screen 140e is an example of "car switch restored" displayed in management terminal screen 140d.

[0197] The management terminal screen 140f is an example of a window displaying the status of the car 115 and the status confirmation window 116 on the management terminal screen.

[0198] The management terminal screen 140g shows an example of "Stopped" indicating the cancellation of "Car Operation Permission" and the stopping of elevator device 21, and "Recording Stopped" in "Camera Operation".

[0199] [Remote Operator Monitoring Processing in Remote Operator Monitoring Systems]

[0200] Next, refer to Figure 15 The remote worker monitoring process of the remote worker monitoring system 100 of the second embodiment will be described.

[0201] Figure 15 This is a timing diagram illustrating a process example of remote worker monitoring processing in the remote worker monitoring system 100 of the second embodiment. Figure 15 and Figure 11 The handling differs, illustrating the process of remote operator monitoring in cases where unplanned tasks arise without a defined work plan. Figure 15 In, with Figure 11 The difference lies in that step S51, which registers the work plan, is deleted, and steps S52, S53, and S34 are changed to steps S52A, S53A, and S34A, respectively. The following is a comparison with... Figure 11 Different parts as the center pair Figure 15 Please provide an explanation.

[0202] In step S41, an anomaly occurred in elevator 1, which had no work plan (e.g., Figure 12 On the upper management terminal screen (140x), operator 20 performs unplanned work on car 2, thus activating the car switch 12a of elevator 1. When the car switch determination unit 42 of elevator device 21 detects that the car switch 12a is activated, the status information notification unit 43 of elevator device 21 sends an activation signal for the car switch 12a to the elevator information management unit 51 of elevator control system 22.

[0203] Next, in step S52A, the elevator information management unit 51 of the elevator control system 22 sends an activation signal for the car switch 12a to the elevator information management unit 61 of the business office management terminal 23, which oversees sites without work plans (performing unscheduled work). (For example, ...) Figure 12 The middle-level management terminal screen is 140a.

[0204] Next, in step S62, when the camera operation unit 52 of the business office management terminal 23 detects that the image capture button 111 has been pressed, it remotely operates the camera 25 installed by the operator 20 at the site based on the camera ID provided by the operator 20 information.

[0205] Additionally, in step S53A, the elevator information management unit 51 of the elevator control system 22 sends a restoration signal for the car switch 12a to the elevator information management unit 61 of the business office management terminal 23, which is responsible for the site that has no work plan (performing unscheduled work).

[0206] Additionally, in step S34A, when the "OK" button on the status confirmation window 116 of the car is pressed on the branch office management terminal 23, a recording stop command is sent to the camera 25 in parallel with a notification indicating that there is no problem with the status of the car, thereby ending the recording of the camera 25 through remote operation.

[0207] Camera 25 sends video recording data to data management server 24. Data management server 24 records and manages the video recording data received from camera 25 by associating it with the camera ID. The camera ID is stored in data management server 24 at a timed interval (e.g., step S61) registered with the branch office management terminal 23. Furthermore, when recording by camera 25 ends, the video recording data is stored in the area of ​​data management server 24 where the camera ID information is stored.

[0208] Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. Various other applications and modifications are possible as long as they do not depart from the spirit of the invention as stated in the claims. For example, the embodiments described above are detailed and specific examples of the structure for the purpose of easily understanding the present invention, and are not limited to having all the structural elements described. In addition, other structural elements can be added to, replaced, or deleted from a portion of the structure of each embodiment.

[0209] Furthermore, the aforementioned structures and functional processing units can be implemented in hardware by designing some or all of them using, for example, integrated circuits. As hardware, more generalized processor devices such as FPGAs (Field Programmable Gate Arrays) and ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits) can also be used.

[0210] Furthermore, the processing steps described in this specification for time series processing include processing performed in a time series according to the described order, as well as processing that is not necessarily performed in a time series, and processing performed in parallel or individually (target-based processing). Additionally, the processing order of the processing steps described for time series processing can be changed without affecting the processing result.

[0211] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, control lines and information lines represent lines deemed necessary for the description, but may not represent all control lines and information lines on the product. In fact, it can be considered that almost all structural elements are interconnected.

Claims

1. A remote operator monitoring system for monitoring images captured by a camera mounted by the operator during elevator operation, characterized in that, The remote worker monitoring system has the following features: A switch is installed on the car and is turned on by the operator before the operator operates the car. An elevator control system that controls the operation of the elevator; The management terminal is used by the administrator of the management operation. The management terminal has: The elevator operation authorization unit, after the switch on the car is turned on, outputs an operation authorization signal to the elevator device if the manager has authorized the operation of the car based on the operator. A camera control unit capable of outputting instructions for remotely operating the camera mounted by the operator; The image verification unit displays the image captured by the camera. When the elevator operation permission unit outputs the operation permission signal to the elevator device, the camera operation unit outputs a recording start command to the camera, and the image confirmation unit displays the image sent from the camera.

2. The remote worker monitoring system according to claim 1, characterized in that, After the switch on the car is turned on, before the operator on the car begins work, the camera control unit outputs an instruction to take a picture through the camera according to the manager's instructions. The image verification unit displays the photograph taken by the camera.

3. The remote worker monitoring system according to claim 1, characterized in that, Without confirming the operator's permission to operate the car, the elevator operation permitting department will not permit the operation of the car based on the operator's permission after the switch on the car is turned on.

4. The remote worker monitoring system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The operator manages the performance of tasks included in the work plan by using the image associated with the work plan and the camera's identification information.

5. A remote operator monitoring method for a remote operator monitoring system, wherein the remote operator monitoring system monitors images captured by a camera mounted by the operator during elevator operation, characterized in that, The remote worker monitoring system has the following features: A switch is installed on the car and is turned on by the operator before the operator operates the car. An elevator control system that controls the operation of the elevator; The management terminal is used by the administrator of the management operation. The management terminal has: The elevator operation permission unit, after the switch on the car is turned on, outputs an operation permission signal to the elevator device if the manager has given permission for the operation of the car based on the operator's permission. A camera control unit capable of outputting instructions for remotely operating the camera mounted by the operator; The image verification unit displays the image captured by the camera. When the elevator operation permission unit outputs the operation permission signal to the elevator device, the camera operation unit outputs a recording start command to the camera. The image confirmation unit displays the image sent from the camera.

Images