Video transmission / reception device, video collaboration method, storage medium, program product, and video collaboration system

Abstract

A video transmission / reception device, a video collaboration method, a storage medium, a program product, and a video collaboration system. People taking an elevator sometimes feel boring or impatient while being located in a car. In addition, when a health problem, such as loss of consciousness, of a person in the car occurs, the person may not notice the problem, and rescue is slowed down. The image transmitting and receiving device is provided with a receiving part for receiving a first image shot by a first shooting device arranged in a first lift car of the elevator; and a transmission unit that transmits the first image so that the first image is displayed on a second display device provided in a second car different from the first car.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an image transceiver, an image collaboration method, a storage medium, a program product, and an image collaboration system for enabling the collaboration of images displayed on display devices respectively arranged in the cars of multiple elevators. Background Technology

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes the following: In the event of a malfunction, the elevator monitoring device automatically transmits images and voice signals bidirectionally between the elevator car's interior equipment and the monitoring center's equipment. This allows service personnel in the monitoring center to simultaneously learn of the elevator's abnormality and the interior condition of the car. Furthermore, the monitoring center can provide assistance, encouragement, and reassurance to passengers inside the car through images and voice signals.

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 07-257842

[0004] Elevator passengers sometimes experience boredom or anxiety while inside the car. In Patent Document 1, even when encouraged to connect to a monitoring center in case of malfunction, no action is taken during normal operation. Furthermore, even when images such as advertisements for shops within the building are displayed on the screen, the experience feels monotonous and tiresome.

[0005] Furthermore, if a passenger experiences a health problem (such as loss of consciousness) inside the car, it may go unnoticed, slowing down the rescue process.

[0006] This invention was developed to address this problem, preventing elevator passengers from experiencing boredom or anxiety. Furthermore, its purpose is to allow for the prompt and effective response to any issues that may arise with passengers. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The present invention is an image transceiver device comprising: a receiving unit that receives a first image captured by a first capturing device installed in a first car of an elevator; and a transmitting unit that transmits the first image for display on a second display device installed in a second car different from the first car.

[0008] Invention Effects

[0009] This invention can alleviate passengers' boredom or anxiety. Furthermore, it is expected to suppress crime within the car and quickly detect emergencies where passengers are unable to cope. Attached Figure Description

[0010] Figure 1 This is a structural diagram showing the schematic structure of the elevator according to Embodiment 1.

[0011] Figure 2 This is a block diagram showing the schematic structure of the elevator car according to Embodiment 1.

[0012] Figure 3 This is a block diagram showing the structure of the elevator image collaboration system according to Embodiment 1.

[0013] Figure 4 This is a block diagram showing the structure of the image transceiver device according to Embodiment 1.

[0014] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram showing an example of the state inside the elevator car in the elevator image collaboration system of Embodiment 1, where image collaboration is in progress.

[0015] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing an example of the attribute table of the elevator registered in the elevator registration information storage unit in Embodiment 1.

[0016] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating the control of the elevator car management device in the image collaboration of Embodiment 1.

[0017] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating the control of the image transceiver device in the image collaboration of Embodiment 1.

[0018] Figure 9 This is a diagram showing the hardware resources of the image transceiver device in Embodiment 1.

[0019] Figure 10 This is a diagram showing the hardware resources of the image transceiver device in Embodiment 1.

[0020] Figure 11 This is a diagram showing an example of the attribute table of the elevator registered in the elevator registration information storage unit in Embodiment 2.

[0021] Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating the control of the image transceiver device in the image collaboration of Embodiment 2.

[0022] Figure 13 This is a block diagram showing the schematic structure of the elevator car according to Embodiment 3.

[0023] Figure 14 This is a diagram showing an example of an attribute table of elevators registered in the grouped elevator registration information storage department.

[0024] Label Explanation

[0025] 1: Elevator; 2: Shaft; 3: Machine room; 4: Traction machine; 5: Elevator control device; 6: Communication device; 7: Rope; 8: Car; 9: Counterweight; 10: Electrical communication line; 11: Communication line; 100: Car body; 101: Camera; 102: Speaker; 103: Display device; 104: Microphone; 105: Weight sensor; 106: Car door; 107: Lighting; 108: Control panel; 109: Emergency button; 110: Collaborative emergency button Button; 200: Car management device; 201: Image control unit; 202: Equipment control unit; 203: Storage unit; 300: Communication line network; 400: Image transceiver device; 401: Transceiver control unit; 402: Selection unit; 403: Elevator registration information storage unit; 404: Recording unit; 405: Receiving unit; 406: Transmitting unit; 407: Collaborative processing unit; 410: Processor; 411: Memory; 412: Transceiver circuit; 413: Dedicated hardware. Detailed Implementation

[0026] The following is a detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings. Repeated descriptions have been simplified or omitted as appropriate. In the various figures, the same reference numerals denote the same or equivalent parts.

[0027] Implementation method 1.

[0028] Figure 1 This is a structural diagram showing a schematic structure of the elevator according to Embodiment 1. Figure 2 This is a block diagram showing the general structure of an elevator car.

[0029] exist Figure 1 In the elevator 1, a machine room 3 is located above the shaft 2. The machine room 3 is equipped with a traction machine 4, an elevator control device 5, and a communication device 6.

[0030] In addition, the traction machine 4 has a traction machine motor and a drive rope pulley, on which the rope 7 is wound.

[0031] Inside the hoistway 2, a car 8 and a counterweight 9 are installed in a manner that allows them to move vertically. The car 8 is connected to one end of a rope 7, and the counterweight 9 is connected to the other end of the rope 7. The car 8 and the counterweight 9 move vertically within the hoistway 2 by rotating a drive sheave.

[0032] Furthermore, the car 8 includes a car body 100 and a car management device 200 installed on the ceiling of the car body 100. The car management device 200 controls the equipment inside the car body 100. Additionally, it is connected to the elevator control device 5 via an electrical communication line 10 to receive power and transmit / receive information. Furthermore, it is connected to the communication device 6 via a communication line 11 to transmit / receive information.

[0033] The communication device 6 sends elevator 1 operation information received from the elevator control device 5 and the car management device 200 to the outside, and also obtains information from the outside.

[0034] Figure 2 The outline structure of car 8 is shown.

[0035] The main body 100 of the car is equipped with a camera and other shooting device 101, a speaker 102, a monitor and other display device 103, and a microphone 104 as equipment for the imaging system.

[0036] The camera device 101 captures images inside the elevator car 100. In addition to announcements for the floors where the elevator stops, the speaker 102 also transmits voice messages into the elevator car 100. The display device 103 displays images, etc. The microphone 104 allows passengers to communicate with the security office and elevator maintenance company outside.

[0037] In addition, the car body 100 is equipped with a weight sensor 105, a car door 106, lighting 107, an operation panel 108, and an emergency button 109.

[0038] The weight sensor 105 measures the load caused by goods and passengers inside the car body 100. Based on its value, it is possible to determine whether there are passengers or goods inside the car body 100. In addition, the load information measured by the weight sensor 105 is transmitted to the elevator control device 5 via the electrical communication line 10.

[0039] The car door 106 opens and closes at each floor to allow passengers to board and alight. Lighting 107 is installed in the ceiling to illuminate the interior of the car body 100. The control panel 108 includes buttons for passengers to specify their destination floor. An emergency button 109 can be pressed by passengers in the car body 100 in an emergency. By pressing this emergency button 109, an emergency signal is transmitted via the communication line 10 and the elevator control device 5 to the security room and the elevator maintenance company for an emergency report. This allows elevator maintenance personnel to be notified of an emergency occurring inside the car body 100.

[0040] In addition, the car 8 has a car management device 200 on the upper part of the ceiling surface of the car body 100.

[0041] The car management device 200 includes an image control unit 201, an equipment control unit 202, and a storage unit 203.

[0042] The image control unit 201 primarily performs control related to images and voice input from the car body 100. For example, it transmits images acquired from the camera device 101 and voice input from the microphone 104 to the outside via the communication device 6. Furthermore, it displays the images acquired from the communication device 6 on the display device 103 and transmits the acquired voice input into the car body 100 via the speaker 102. In addition, it performs image and voice processing within the car body 100.

[0043] The equipment control unit 202 primarily performs controls related to the operation of the elevator car 8. For example, it determines overload based on the weight sensor 105. Upon arrival at a floor, it opens and closes the car door 106. It senses passenger arrival and turns on the lighting 107. It detects the destination floor based on passenger button presses on the operation panel 108 and notifies the elevator control unit 5. It detects emergency button presses 109 and performs emergency control. That is, it generates an emergency signal and sends it to the elevator control unit 5 to stop at the nearest floor, etc.

[0044] The storage unit 203 stores pre-set parameters for video and voice control and equipment control, as set by the building owner and elevator installer. It also stores information related to the video collaboration of this invention, which will be described later.

[0045] Next, according to Figure 3 , Figure 4 An elevator video collaboration system for enabling video collaboration among multiple elevators is described. Additionally, the video here also includes audio. In this case, the video is displayed on a screen, while sound is simultaneously transmitted from a speaker.

[0046] Figure 3 This is a block diagram showing the structure of the elevator image collaboration system according to Embodiment 1.

[0047] Furthermore, for ease of understanding, elevators 1a through 9i (numbered 9) are shown here as examples, but the number is not limited to 9. Additionally, elevators 1a through 9i are structurally identical, as shown below. Figure 1 , Figure 2 As shown.

[0048] exist Figure 3 In this system, the first communication device 6a of the first elevator 1a to the ninth communication device 6i of the ninth elevator 1i are connected to the image transceiver device 400 via the communication line network 300. Furthermore, as... Figure 1 , 2 As shown, each communication device 6 is connected to the car 8 (more specifically, the car management device 200) via communication line 11. Furthermore, the communication line network 300 is equivalent to the Internet or public utilities.

[0049] In addition, Figure 3 Elevators 1a through 5e are located in Japan, elevator 6f is located in the United Kingdom (UK), elevators 7g and 8h are located in the United States (US), and elevator 9i is located in Indonesia. Furthermore, the elevators to be considered are pre-registered with the image transceiver device 400.

[0050] Figure 4 This is a block diagram showing the structure of the image transceiver device 400.

[0051] The image transceiver device 400 mainly consists of a transceiver control unit 401, a selection unit 402, an elevator registration information storage unit 403, and a recording unit 404.

[0052] In addition, the transceiver control unit 401 is mainly composed of a receiving unit 405, a transmitting unit 406, and a cooperative processing unit 407.

[0053] Here, we will explain the concept behind the image collaboration for elevators. Furthermore, in this image collaboration, the target is essentially an elevator that has passengers inside its car and is in operation.

[0054] Image collaboration refers to selecting two elevators and exchanging images between their cars. This allows passengers in each elevator to appear as if they are in another elevator car connected to their own car's window.

[0055] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the state of an elevator car during image collaboration.

[0056] In the two elevator car bodies 100, the camera device 101 takes pictures of the interior of each car body 100, including the passengers. Moreover, below the camera device 101, a relatively large display device 103 is provided on the part of the wall from half to the top of the car body 100, which displays the images captured by the camera device 101 of the other car body 100.

[0057] This can alleviate passengers' boredom or anxiety. Furthermore, by enabling mutual observation between the car compartments, it is expected to suppress crime within the car and facilitate the rapid detection of emergencies where passengers are unable to cope.

[0058] However, even if passengers can observe each other from their cars, boredom cannot be eliminated if the observations are not of interest to them.

[0059] Therefore, requests for cooperation from each elevator are sent to other elevators, enabling optimal image collaboration between elevators.

[0060] For example, instead of using unfamiliar elevators, elevators from the head office and branch offices of the same company can be used collaboratively. This fosters mutual trust among passengers and facilitates communication.

[0061] In addition, by working with elevators that offer views of the surrounding landscape, passengers can enjoy distant scenery.

[0062] Furthermore, by collaborating with elevators in foreign countries, passengers can experience a foreign atmosphere. Simultaneously, this involves collaborating with elevators in foreign countries that are less crowded late at night and those that are crowded during the bright daytime due to time differences. This allows passengers traveling alone in the elevator car late at night to feel more at ease.

[0063] exist Figure 4 In this system, the receiving unit 405 receives information from the cars 8 of each elevator using the transceiver control unit 401, and the transmitting unit 406 transmits information to the cars 8 of each elevator. Furthermore, for the same elevator car 8, the transceiver control unit 401 can receive information simultaneously with the transmitting.

[0064] The collaborative processing unit 407 performs processing to send the image information sent from the receiving unit 405 to the elevator car 8 selected by the selection unit 402.

[0065] The selection unit 402 performs matching processing based on the elevator registration information pre-registered in the elevator registration information storage unit 403 and the received request, and selects two elevators for image collaboration. The recording unit 404 records the images sent and received in this image collaboration.

[0066] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing an example of the attribute table of the elevator registered in the elevator registration information storage unit 403.

[0067] The attribute table contains the ID 403a of the pre-registered elevator, along with attributes such as location 403b, time difference 403c, and feature 403d. The time difference refers to the time difference with Japan. Furthermore, as details of feature 403d, there are items such as view 403d1, building 403d2, and number of floors 403d3. View 403d1 is ranked from 1 to 5 based on whether the view from the elevator car is visible and the degree of beauty of the view. For example, in elevator 1a (ID 1a), there is no view from the car, therefore it is ranked the lowest at 1. Conversely, in elevator 1g (ID 1g) of Tower D in New York, the Manhattan skyline is visible from the car, ranking the highest at 5.

[0068] Next, specific examples will be given to explain the matching in the selection section 402.

[0069] First, requests related to the other party in the case of image collaboration are preset in the storage unit 203 of the car management device 200 of each elevator.

[0070] For example, in elevator 1a, the request is set to Company A. Then, selection unit 402 searches for elevators that match the request and elevator 1a matches the request on the other side.

[0071] Here, passengers are also boarding in the third car 8c of the third elevator 1c at approximately the same time, and the request from the third elevator 1c is also from Company A, the same company. In this case, the request from the third elevator 1c matches the request from Company A in the first elevator 1a. Furthermore, the request from the first elevator 1a matches the request from Company A in the third elevator 1c. Therefore, the first elevator 1a and the third elevator 1c are selected for image collaboration. That is, the display device in the car of the first elevator 1a displays the image captured by the camera device in the car of the third elevator 1c. Furthermore, the display device in the car of the third elevator 1c displays the image captured by the camera device in the car of the first elevator 1a. Passengers feel a sense of closeness because they are from the same company. Furthermore, if they have met each other multiple times, they can expect to have a conversation.

[0072] Furthermore, for example, in elevator 2b, suppose the request is for a view level of 3 or higher.

[0073] Here, it is assumed that there are passengers in the 9th car 8i of the 9th elevator 1i, but matching has not yet been completed. Furthermore, it is assumed that the request from the 9th elevator 1i is a foreign request. In this case, the 9th elevator 1i is matched with a request from the 2nd elevator 1b for a view level of 3 or higher. Additionally, the 2nd elevator 1b is matched with a foreign request from the 9th elevator 1i. Therefore, the 2nd elevator 1b and the 9th elevator 1i are selected for image collaboration. That is, the display device in the car of the 2nd elevator 1b displays the image captured by the camera device in the car of the 9th elevator 1i. Furthermore, the display device in the car of the 9th elevator 1i displays the image captured by the camera device in the car of the 2nd elevator 1b. Passengers in the 2nd elevator 1b can enjoy beautiful views from among the passengers. Furthermore, passengers in the 9th elevator 1i may notice the atmosphere of Tokyo, Japanese trends, etc.

[0074] Furthermore, for example, in elevator 7 1g, suppose the request is for a daytime elevator. Since New York City, where elevator 7 1g is located, is quiet at night with few people in the building, a request would be made during the nighttime hours to utilize an elevator with higher daytime passenger volume in order to deter crime.

[0075] Here, it is assumed that there are passengers in the fifth car 8e of elevator 5 1e, but matching has not yet been completed. Furthermore, it is assumed that the request from elevator 5 1e is a foreign request. In this case, elevator 5 1e is matched with a daytime request from elevator 7 1g. Additionally, elevator 7 1g is matched with a foreign request from elevator 5 1e. Therefore, elevators 5 1e and 7 1g are selected for image collaboration. That is, the display device in the car of elevator 5 1e displays images captured by the camera device in the car of elevator 7 1g. Furthermore, the display device in the car of elevator 7 1g displays images captured by the camera device in the car of elevator 5 1e. Passengers in elevator 7 1g feel reassured knowing there are people nearby. Furthermore, passengers in elevator 5 1e might notice the atmosphere of New York, its trends, etc.

[0076] Additionally, sometimes requests are not specifically set in elevators. In such cases, if the request from the other party is met, a selection is made.

[0077] Next, the control of image collaboration will be explained.

[0078] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating the control of the elevator car management device 200 in image collaboration. Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating the control of the image transceiver device 400 in image collaboration.

[0079] First of all, Figure 7 In the equipment control unit 202 of the car management device 200, the presence of a person in the empty car body 100 is detected based on the weight change of the weight sensor 105 (step S001).

[0080] Next, the image control unit 201 reads the request stored in the storage unit 203 and sends the image cooperation request to the image transceiver device 400 via the communication device 6 (step S002).

[0081] exist Figure 8 In the image transceiver device 400, the receiving unit 405 receives an image cooperation request (step S101).

[0082] Next, in the selection unit 402, a matching process is performed based on the request in the sent image collaboration request and the information in the elevator registration information storage unit 403 to select the mutual counterpart for image collaboration (step S102).

[0083] Next, the collaboration processing unit 407 determines whether the other party can be selected in step S102 (step S103). Then, if selection is possible, an image transmission request is sent to the car management device 200 of each elevator that has made the image collaboration request (step S104).

[0084] exist Figure 7 In the car management device 200, it is determined whether an image transmission request has been received (step S003).

[0085] Then, upon determining that an image transmission request has been received, the image captured by the capturing device 101 is transmitted to the image transceiver 400 via the communication device 6. Simultaneously, an image of the other elevator car is transmitted from the image transceiver 400, and this image is displayed on the display device 103 (step S004). Additionally, at this time, voice acquired by the microphone 104 can also be transmitted along with the image.

[0086] Corresponding to Figure 7 Step S004, in Figure 8 In this process, the image transceiver 400 receives images from each car 8 using the receiving unit 405. The collaborative processing unit 407 sets the elevator selected by the selection unit 402 as the transmission destination, and the sending unit 406 sends the image to the car management device 200 of the other car respectively (step S105).

[0087] In addition, Figure 8 If no option can be selected in step S103, the cooperation processing unit 407 sends a message of non-cooperation from the sending unit 406 to the car management device 200. At this time, the recording unit 404 obtains the images previously captured by the car of the elevator that meets the request, and sends them together (step S106).

[0088] Correspondingly, in Figure 7 In the car management device 200, if the car cannot cooperate in step S003, the previously transmitted images are displayed on the display device 103 (step S005).

[0089] In addition, sometimes passengers in the main car 100 may dislike the images of the other elevator car displayed on the display device 103 and wish to change them.

[0090] To address this situation, the control panel 108 has a switch request button, which passengers can press to make a switch.

[0091] exist Figure 7 In the process, the car management device 200 determines whether the switching request button has been pressed (steps S006 and S009).

[0092] Then, if it is determined that the switch request button has been pressed, a switch request notification is sent to the image transceiver 400 (steps S007 and S011).

[0093] Correspondingly, in Figure 8 In the process, the receiving unit 405 of the image transceiver 400 determines whether a handover request notification has been received (step S107), and the selection unit 402 performs step S102 again.

[0094] Furthermore, if all passengers in the main car 100 have disembarked from the car and the main car 100 is empty, there is no need to continue image collaboration.

[0095] Therefore, in Figure 7 During this process, the car management device 200 uses the weight sensor 105 to continuously determine whether there are passengers inside the car body 100 (steps S008 and S010).

[0096] Then, in steps S008 and S010, if it is determined that all passengers in the car body 100 have disembarked and the car is empty, a cut-off request is sent to the image transceiver 400 to end the image transmission (step S012).

[0097] Correspondingly, in Figure 8 In the image transceiver device 400, it is always determined whether a cut-off request has been sent (step S108). Then, if a cut-off request exists, the image collaboration termination process is performed (step S109).

[0098] Furthermore, although this is the end of the processing, normally, even if one elevator car is empty, the other car involved in the image collaboration still has passengers. Therefore, the image transceiver 400 continues to send the last image of one elevator car to the other car management device 200. Then, when a cut-off request is received from the other elevator car, the image collaboration is completed.

[0099] Figure 9 This diagram illustrates the hardware resources of the video transceiver 400. As hardware resources, the video transceiver 400 includes a processor 410, a memory 411, and transceiver circuitry 412. Furthermore, there may be multiple processors 410 and memory 411.

[0100] In embodiment 1, the memory 411 serves as both the elevator registration information storage unit 403 and the recording unit 404. Furthermore, the memory 411 stores information on elevator registration... Figure 8 The program processes the flowchart. Moreover, upon startup, the program begins operation in the processor 410, performing various processing functions.

[0101] Additionally, the processor 410 is also referred to as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), central processing unit, arithmetic unit, microprocessor, microcomputer, or DSP. The memory 411 can also be a semiconductor memory, magnetic disk, floppy disk, optical disk, high-density disk, mini-disk, or DVD. Suitable semiconductor memories include RAM, ROM, flash memory, EPROM, and EEPROM.

[0102] Thus, in Implementation Method 1, passenger boredom or anxiety can be alleviated. Furthermore, it is expected to suppress crime within the car and facilitate rapid detection of emergencies where passengers are unable to cope.

[0103] Alternatively, the storage unit 203 of the car management device 200 stores the request and sends it to the image transceiver device 400 each time. However, for example, it can also be set in the registration table of the elevator registration information storage unit 403 corresponding to the elevator.

[0104] Furthermore, in elevators where users call the elevator using access cards, the person entering can be identified, and therefore, requests can be stored corresponding to that person. For example, if a person's name is stored, and that person prefers a foreign country, a request for a foreign country can be stored. Then, if the person is identified using their access card, a request for a foreign country can be sent, and so on.

[0105] In addition, the timing for sending an image collaboration request from the car management device can also be when the car call button is pressed at a landing or when the passenger with a reservation can be identified through the landing beacon.

[0106] In addition, if the other party cannot be selected, past images can be displayed on the display device; however, images of advertisements or scenery that are completely unrelated can also be displayed.

[0107] Furthermore, when performing image collaboration, if all passengers have disembarked from one elevator car and the car is empty, the selection unit 402 can also perform image collaboration again for another elevator.

[0108] Furthermore, the hardware resources of the image transceiver 400 can also be... Figure 10 The hardware resources shown are as follows. The image transceiver 400 has a processing circuit, which includes a processor 410, a memory 411, a transceiver circuit 412, and dedicated hardware 413. Furthermore, the dedicated hardware 413 undertakes… Figure 9 This is part of the functionality of the processor 410. As dedicated hardware 413, it can be a single circuit, a composite circuit, a programmable processor, a parallel programmable processor, an ASIC, an FPGA, or a combination thereof.

[0109] Implementation Method 2

[0110] In implementation 1, image collaboration is conducted via a one-to-one elevator. However, for example, in cases where there are many requests for seeing a good view, i.e., requests for a view level of 3 or higher, the matching may not be possible at all.

[0111] Therefore, in Implementation 2, images can be sent to multiple elevators for a specific elevator.

[0112] Figure 11 This is a diagram showing an example of the elevator information table stored in the elevator registration information storage unit 403 in Embodiment 2.

[0113] Figure 11 Elevator information sheet and Figure 6 Compared to the elevator information table, an additional 403e data points can be sent simultaneously.

[0114] The 403e simultaneous transmission limit setting, in addition to the other party in the image collaboration, also sets the number of images that can be transmitted simultaneously.

[0115] Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating the control of the image transceiver device 400 in image collaboration.

[0116] Figure 12 and Figure 8 The only difference is that, instead of step S106, the image is sent simultaneously (step S110).

[0117] For example, if a request from elevator 8 (1h) is for a view level of 3 or higher and a request from elevator 4 (1d) is for a foreign country, a match is established, and image collaboration is performed. That is, the display device in the car of elevator 4 (1d) displays the image captured by the camera in the car of elevator 8 (1h). Furthermore, the display device in the car of elevator 8 (1h) displays the image captured by the camera in the car of elevator 4 (1d).

[0118] Suppose that in this state, there is an image collaboration request from elevator 3 1c with a scene level of 3 or higher. In this case, in step S102, the selection unit 402 first searches for a counterpart to the image collaboration request. However, there is no counterpart, and in step S103, it is determined that there is no counterpart. In this case, the selection unit 402 searches for an elevator that meets the request from elevators that have not yet reached the number of simultaneous transmissions, and the collaboration processing unit 407 transmits its image (step S110). Here, regarding elevator 4 1d, the number of simultaneous transmissions is 30, while the current number of simultaneous transmissions is 0. Therefore, the image acquired by the imaging device of elevator 4 1d is also transmitted to the third car 8c of elevator 3 1c.

[0119] In addition, in this case, the display device in the fourth car 8d of the fourth elevator 1d continues to display the image captured by the camera device in the eighth car 8h of the eighth elevator 1h.

[0120] In this way, even if a match cannot be found, images captured by elevators that meet the request can still be published, which can alleviate passengers' boredom or anxiety.

[0121] Furthermore, there is no benefit to allowing simultaneous elevator dispatches. Therefore, some kind of reward is offered in order to obtain permission.

[0122] Implementation Method 3

[0123] In Implementation 1, image collaboration allows for rapid detection of any issues arising from the other party. However, when collaborating with foreign elevator systems via image collaboration, it is sometimes difficult to respond quickly enough.

[0124] Therefore, in embodiment 3, the same process as pressing the emergency button located on the other party's car body 100 can be performed remotely.

[0125] Figure 13 This is a block diagram showing the schematic structure of the car 8 in embodiment 3.

[0126] exist Figure 13 In, with Figure 2 The only difference is the addition of a collaborative emergency button, 110.

[0127] For example, in a collaborative imaging scenario, an emergency occurs in one elevator car, such as a passenger falling ill. In this situation, a passenger in another elevator presses the collaborative emergency button 110 in car 8.

[0128] The image control unit 201 of the car management device 200 detects that the emergency button 110 has been pressed and sends an emergency message to the image transceiver 400 via the communication device 6. In the image transceiver 400, the receiving unit 405 receives the emergency message, the collaborative processing unit 407 overlays the emergency message onto the image, and sends it from the sending unit 406 to the car 8 of the other elevator. In the car 8 of the other elevator, the image control unit 201 receives the emergency message along with the image. The image control unit 201 performs the same emergency control as when the emergency button 109 is pressed. That is, it generates an emergency signal and sends it to the elevator control device 5. As a result, the car 8 stops at the nearest floor. Furthermore, the emergency signal is transmitted via the elevator control device 5 to the security room and the elevator maintenance company for an emergency report. Thus, elevator maintenance personnel are aware that an emergency has occurred inside the car body 100.

[0129] In this way, the same processing as pressing the emergency button of the other party in the video collaboration can be performed remotely, thereby prompting the other party's elevator maintenance personnel to respond quickly if the other party witnesses an emergency.

[0130] The above describes embodiments 1 to 3. Of course, the detailed structure can be appropriately modified within the scope of what has been disclosed.

[0131] For example, related elevators can be grouped, and image collaboration can be performed only within those groups.

[0132] Figure 14 This is a diagram showing the attribute table of elevators grouped by Company A. Only elevators belonging to Company A's headquarters / branch offices are registered in this table; other elevators are registered in other tables. Therefore, elevator 1a only collaborates with elevators 3c and 8h in image processing.

[0133] By creating this grouping, image collaboration can be achieved within the elevator area of ​​Company A's headquarters / branch offices. In this case, if the connection is only within the group, no request is required.

[0134] Industrial availability

[0135] Thus, the present invention is useful in a system consisting of multiple elevators with cars equipped with display devices that project images.

Claims

1. An image transceiver device, the image transceiver device comprising: The receiving unit receives the first image captured by the first imaging device installed in the first car of the elevator; and The transmitting unit transmits the first image so that it can be displayed on a second display device located in a second car that is different from the first car.

2. The image transceiver device according to claim 1, characterized in that, During the period when the first image is displayed on the second display device, the receiving unit receives the second image captured by the second shooting device installed in the second car, and the transmitting unit transmits the second image so that the first display device installed in the first car can display it.

3. An image transceiver device, characterized in that, The image transceiver device has the following features: The selection unit selects two elevators from a number of elevators with cars equipped with cameras and displays to cooperate with. as well as The transceiver control unit receives images captured by the camera device of one of the two elevators selected by the selection unit, and transmits them for display on the display device of the other elevator's car. Simultaneously, it receives images captured by the camera device of the other elevator's car and transmits them for display on the display device of the first elevator's car.

4. The image transceiver device according to claim 3, characterized in that, Passengers are riding in the cars of the two elevators selected by the selection unit.

5. The image transceiver device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The image transceiver has an elevator registration information storage unit that stores multiple elevators, and the selection unit selects two elevators to cooperate with based on the elevator registration information storage unit.

6. The image transceiver according to claim 5, characterized in that, The elevator registration information storage unit stores at least one of the following conditions for each registered elevator: the location where the elevator is installed and the building where the elevator is installed.

7. The image transceiver according to claim 4, characterized in that, The selection unit selects two elevators to cooperate with based on the request sent from the car.

8. The image transceiver according to any one of claims 3 to 7, characterized in that, If a switching request for cooperation is received from the car of one of the two elevators selected by the selection unit, the selection unit will reselect.

9. The image transceiver according to any one of claims 3 to 7, characterized in that, The transceiver control unit receives images captured by the camera device in the car of one elevator and transmits them for display on the display device in the car of another elevator.

10. The image transceiver according to any one of claims 3 to 7, characterized in that, When the receiving and transmitting control unit receives an emergency message from the car of one of the two elevators selected by the selection unit, it sends the emergency message to the car of the other elevator to perform emergency control in the other elevator.

11. An image collaboration method, wherein, The system receives a first image captured by a first imaging device installed in the first car of the elevator, and transmits the first image so that it can be displayed by a second display device installed in a second car that is different from the first car.

12. The image collaboration method according to claim 11, characterized in that, During the period when the first image is displayed on the second display device, a second image captured by a second imaging device installed in the second car is received, and the second image is transmitted so that the first display device installed in the first car can display it.

13. An image collaboration method, characterized in that, The image collaboration method includes the following steps: Receive image collaboration requests from elevators equipped with cameras and displays. Select the elevator that has sent the image collaboration request to collaborate with; as well as The display device in the car of the other elevator displays the image captured by the camera device in the car of the elevator that sent the image cooperation request, and simultaneously, the display device in the car of the other elevator displays the image captured by the camera device in the car of the other elevator.

14. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores a program that causes the processor to perform the following steps: receiving a first image captured by a first camera device installed in the first car of the elevator, and sending the first image to a second display device installed in a second car that is different from the first car.

15. The computer-readable storage medium according to claim 14, characterized in that, The program causes the processor to perform the following steps: during the period when the first image is displayed on the second display device, receiving a second image captured by a second imaging device installed in the second car, and sending the second image so that the first display device installed in the first car can display it.

16. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores a program that causes the processor to perform the following steps: Select two elevators from among multiple elevators that have cars equipped with cameras and displays to cooperate; as well as The system receives images captured by the camera in the car of one of the two selected elevators, transmits them to the display device in the car of the other elevator, and simultaneously receives images captured by the camera in the car of the other elevator, transmits them to the display device in the car of the first elevator.

17. A program product, characterized in that, The program product includes a program that causes a processor to perform the following steps: receiving a first image captured by a first imaging device installed in the first car of the elevator, and sending the first image to a second display device installed in a second car different from the first car for display.

18. The program product according to claim 17, characterized in that, The program causes the processor to perform the following steps: during the period when the first image is displayed on the second display device, receiving a second image captured by a second imaging device installed in the second car, and sending the second image so that the first display device installed in the first car can display it.

19. A program product, characterized in that, The program product includes a program that causes the processor to perform the following steps: Select two elevators from among multiple elevators that have cars equipped with cameras and displays to cooperate; as well as The system receives images captured by the camera in the car of one of the two selected elevators, transmits them to the display device in the car of the other elevator, and simultaneously receives images captured by the camera in the car of the other elevator, transmits them to the display device in the car of the first elevator.

20. An image collaboration system, characterized in that, The image collaboration system has the following features: Multiple elevators, each equipped with a car containing a camera and a display device; and An image transceiver device that receives images captured by the camera from the car. The image transceiver device has the following features: The selection department chooses two elevators to cooperate with; as well as The transceiver control unit receives images captured by the camera device in the car of one of the two elevators selected by the selection unit, and transmits them for display on the display device in the car of the other elevator. Simultaneously, it receives images captured by the camera device in the car of the other elevator and transmits them for display on the display device in the car of the first elevator.

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