Deterioration diagnosis system and deterioration diagnosis method for substrate-mounted capacitor for elevator, and elevator

Abstract

The invention provides a deterioration diagnosis system and a deterioration diagnosis method for a substrate-mounted capacitor for an elevator, and the elevator. A deterioration diagnosis system is provided with: a measurement circuit unit (41) including a switch unit (82) that selectively switches between charging and discharging of a capacitor mounted on a substrate; a storage unit (47) that records at least a portion of the voltage waveform of the capacitor when the capacitor is discharged; a capacitance calculation unit (46c) that calculates the capacitance of the capacitor on the basis of the voltage waveform; a deterioration determination unit (46d) that determines the presence or absence of deterioration of the capacitor (7) on the basis of a signal from the capacitance calculation unit (46c); and a communication unit (42) that, when the degradation determination unit (46d) determines the degradation of the capacitor, outputs information capable of specifying the degradation of the capacitor.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a degradation diagnosis system and method for capacitors mounted on a base plate for elevators, and to elevators. Background Technology

[0002] As described in Patent Document 1, multiple capacitors are mounted on the elevator substrate. For example, in the elevator described in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2012-111611, a rectifier circuit is connected to a commercial three-phase AC power supply. The rectifier circuit is composed of diodes and converts the three-phase AC power output from the commercial three-phase AC power supply into DC power. Furthermore, capacitors are arranged between the DC output lines of the rectifier circuit. These capacitors are provided to smooth out the pulsating components (ripple) contained in the DC power converted by the rectifier circuit.

[0003] An inverter is located after the rectifier circuit. The inverter contains diodes and switching elements, such as transistors. The inverter uses PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) control to convert capacitor-smoothed DC power into AC power with variable voltage and frequency, which is then supplied to the motor. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Not limited to capacitors used for smoothing, when capacitors mounted on elevator circuit boards experience capacitance loss due to leakage or other reasons, it may cause control malfunctions. Therefore, the object of this disclosure is to provide a capacitor degradation diagnosis system, degradation diagnosis method, and elevator for elevator circuit boards that can accurately diagnose the degradation of capacitors mounted on elevator circuit boards and suppress control malfunctions caused by capacitor degradation.

[0005] To address the aforementioned problems, the present disclosure provides a degradation diagnosis system for a capacitor mounted on an elevator substrate, comprising: a capacitor charging and discharging circuit including a switching unit that selectively switches between charging and discharging a capacitor mounted on an elevator substrate; a recording unit that records the voltage waveform of the capacitor during at least a portion of the period during which the capacitor is discharging; a calculation unit that calculates the capacitance of the capacitor based on the voltage waveform; a determination unit that determines whether the capacitor has degraded based on a signal from the calculation unit; and an output unit that outputs information confirming the degradation of the capacitor when the determination unit determines that the capacitor has degraded.

[0006] According to this disclosure, the capacitance of a capacitor is calculated based on the voltage waveform during capacitor discharge in a capacitor charging and discharging circuit. The calculated capacitance is then used to determine whether the capacitor has deteriorated. If the capacitor is deteriorated, an output is made that confirms the deterioration. Therefore, deteriorated capacitors can be reliably replaced, thereby suppressing elevator malfunctions.

[0007] Alternatively, the determination unit may determine whether the capacitor has deteriorated based on the capacitance and threshold calculated by the calculation unit.

[0008] Based on this structure, the degradation of capacitors can be easily and accurately determined.

[0009] Alternatively, the voltage waveform may be recorded when the capacitor discharges at a substantially constant current.

[0010] According to this structure, the capacitance can be easily and accurately calculated simply by calculating the slope of the voltage waveform.

[0011] Alternatively, a monitoring device capable of transmitting elevator information to an information processing device via a communication network may be provided. The elevator control device performs pre-determined diagnostic control of the elevator during periods when the elevator is not performing human transport-related actions according to a pre-set schedule. The diagnostic control includes control for diagnosing the elevator's acceleration performance, control for diagnosing the brake performance, and control for calculating the capacitance. The monitoring device transmits diagnostic information of the elevator based on the diagnostic control to the information processing device.

[0012] Elevator systems preferably perform diagnostic checks to automatically inspect the equipment's condition. For example, diagnostic checks are preferably performed according to a pre-set schedule, such as once a month, during predetermined time periods late at night when the elevator is less likely to be used by people on a designated day, thereby automatically inspecting the equipment's condition.

[0013] According to this structure, capacitor degradation is determined during diagnostic control. Therefore, compared to independently determining capacitor degradation without equipment inspection, it achieves a significant advantage by allowing for regular and automatic capacitor degradation determination that is less likely to inconvenience passengers.

[0014] Alternatively, a monitoring device capable of sending elevator information to an information processing device via a communication network may be provided. The elevator control device performs pre-determined diagnostic control of the elevator based on signals from the information processing device. The diagnostic control includes control for diagnosing the elevator's acceleration performance, control for diagnosing the brake performance, and control for calculating the capacitance. The monitoring device sends diagnostic information of the elevator based on the diagnostic control to the information processing device.

[0015] Alternatively, a monitoring device connected to the control board of the elevator can receive diagnostic instructions from an information processing device (e.g., a management server), output instructions to perform diagnostics to the aforementioned board, cause the elevator to perform diagnostic control, and send diagnostic results from the monitoring device to the information processing device to perform elevator diagnostics.

[0016] According to this structure, the elevator control device, upon receiving a diagnostic instruction from the information processing unit, performs capacitor degradation assessment during elevator diagnostic control. Therefore, compared to independently assessing capacitor degradation without equipment inspection, this method is less likely to cause inconvenience to passengers.

[0017] Alternatively, the monitoring device may include the determination unit.

[0018] Information processing devices sometimes store data from multiple (large numbers) of elevators. Therefore, when the information processing device performs capacitor degradation assessment, it may place a significant load on the information processing. According to this structure, capacitor degradation assessment is performed on the elevator-side monitoring device. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the excessive load placed on the information processing device that communicates with the elevator monitoring device.

[0019] Alternatively, the elevator control device may perform control for calculating the capacitance based on signals sent from the outside when the elevator enters a maintenance mode where it does not operate according to the car call button and the destination floor designation button.

[0020] This structure allows for the assessment of capacitor degradation during maintenance by operators. Therefore, it minimizes inconvenience to passengers.

[0021] Furthermore, the degradation diagnosis method for capacitors mounted on a base plate for elevators disclosed herein includes the following steps:

[0022] Selectively switch the charging and discharging of a capacitor mounted on an elevator base plate; record the voltage waveform of the capacitor during at least a portion of the discharge period; calculate the capacitance of the capacitor based on the voltage waveform; and determine whether the capacitor has deteriorated based on the capacitance.

[0023] According to this disclosure, the capacitance of a capacitor is calculated based on the voltage waveform during capacitor discharge, and the calculated capacitance is used to determine whether the capacitor has deteriorated. Therefore, deteriorated capacitors can be reliably replaced, thereby suppressing elevator malfunctions.

[0024] Alternatively, the elevator control device may perform pre-determined diagnostic control of the elevator during periods when the elevator is not performing actions related to human transportation, according to a pre-set schedule. The diagnostic control includes control for diagnosing the elevator's acceleration performance, control for diagnosing the brake performance, and control for calculating the capacitance.

[0025] According to this structure, it is less likely to cause inconvenience to passengers, and the degradation of capacitors can be determined periodically and automatically.

[0026] Alternatively, the elevator control device may perform pre-determined diagnostic control of the elevator based on signals received from the information processing device via a communication network. The diagnostic control includes control for diagnosing the elevator's acceleration performance, control for diagnosing the brake performance, and control for calculating the capacitance. The monitoring device then sends diagnostic information of the elevator based on the diagnostic control to the information processing device.

[0027] Based on this structure, it is unlikely to cause inconvenience to passengers.

[0028] Furthermore, the elevator disclosed herein includes: a substrate on which a capacitor is mounted; a capacitor charging and discharging circuit, comprising a switching unit that selectively switches the charging and discharging of the capacitor; a recording unit that records the voltage waveform of the capacitor during at least a portion of the period during which the capacitor is discharging; and a calculation unit that calculates the capacitance of the capacitor based on the voltage waveform.

[0029] According to this disclosure, it is possible to accurately diagnose the degradation of capacitors mounted on elevator circuit boards and suppress control malfunctions caused by capacitor degradation.

[0030] The above and other objects, features, solutions, and advantages of the present invention will become clear from the following detailed description relating to the invention as understood in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0031] Figure 1 This is a schematic structural diagram illustrating a capacitor degradation diagnosis system for an elevator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the parts of the monitoring device related to the capacitance calculation of the capacitor.

[0033] Figure 3 This is a circuit diagram that explains the structure of the measurement circuit section and the electrical connection between the measurement circuit section and the capacitor on the substrate.

[0034] Figure 4This diagram illustrates an example of the operational process related to determining capacitor degradation.

[0035] Figure 5 This is a graph illustrating an example of the relationship between voltage and time during capacitor discharge.

[0036] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of when to determine the deterioration of a capacitor. Detailed Implementation

[0037] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, in cases where multiple embodiments and modifications are included, it is envisioned from the outset that appropriate combinations of their feature parts will be used to construct new embodiments. Additionally, in the following embodiments, the same reference numerals will be used to denote the same structures in the figures, and repeated descriptions will be omitted.

[0038] Figure 1 This is a schematic structural diagram illustrating a capacitor degradation diagnosis system 1 for an elevator 20 according to one embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 1 As shown, the deterioration diagnosis system 1 includes: a control panel (control device) 30, which controls the operation of the elevator 20, which has a car 22 disposed in the hoistway 11; a monitoring device 40, which is connected to the control panel 30, for example via wired or wireless means, and performs data transmission and reception with the control panel 30; a management server 60, which is connected to the monitoring device 40 via a communication network 35 and performs data transmission and reception with the monitoring device 40; and a management device 70, which is connected to the monitoring device 40 via the communication network 35 and performs data transmission and reception with the monitoring device 40, and is disposed in a monitoring center (information center) 8.

[0039] Monitoring device 40 is included in elevator 20. Furthermore, management server 60 and management device 70 can communicate and send / receive information. Management server 60 and management device 70 are examples of information processing devices. Additionally, in Figure 1 In this system, one elevator 20 exchanges information with the management server 60 or the management device 70, but the information processing device can also exchange information with multiple elevators 20.

[0040] The control panel 30, monitoring device 40, management server 60, and management device 70 are each preferably composed of a computer, such as a microcomputer, including a control unit 46 (see reference). Figure 2 ) and storage unit 47 (refer to) Figure 2The control unit 46, i.e., the processor, includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). Furthermore, the storage unit 47 is composed of a hard disk drive (HDD) or a solid-state drive (SSD), and may also include non-volatile memory such as ROM (Read Only Memory) or volatile memory such as RAM (Random Access Memory). The storage unit 47 may consist of only one storage medium or multiple different storage media. The CPU reads and executes programs pre-stored in the storage unit 47. In addition, the non-volatile memory pre-stores control programs, predetermined thresholds, etc. Furthermore, the volatile memory temporarily stores read programs and processed data.

[0041] Elevator 20 performs diagnostic control according to a pre-set schedule, for example, once a month, starting from a predetermined date and a predetermined period (e.g., 2 AM on the first day of each month). The date and time data of the schedule are pre-stored in at least one of the following storage units: the control panel 30's storage unit, the monitoring device 40's storage unit 47, the management server 60's storage unit, and the management device 70's storage unit, preferably in the control panel 30's storage unit or the monitoring device 40's storage unit 47. Furthermore, the diagnostic control-related programs are also pre-stored in at least one of the following storage units: the control panel 30's storage unit, the monitoring device 40's storage unit 47, the management server 60's storage unit, and the management device 70's storage unit, preferably in the control panel 30's storage unit or the monitoring device 40's storage unit 47.

[0042] Diagnostic control is performed as follows. Specifically, control panel 30 moves the elevator car 22 of elevator 20 to a designated floor. Furthermore, in this control, during the movement of the car 22, various sensors installed on elevator 20 monitor operational performance (acceleration, presence or absence of abnormal sounds), brake performance, door opening and closing, emergency power battery, and the baseboard (e.g., control baseboard) 6 mounted on elevator 20 (see reference). Figure 3 Capacitor 7 (reference) Figure 3The diagnostic data includes a diagnostic mode field and a diagnostic result field. In the diagnostic mode field, enter the category indicating whether the diagnostic is performed periodically according to a set schedule or based on diagnostic instructions from the management server 60. In the diagnostic result field, enter the results for each diagnostic item, including operational performance (acceleration, presence or absence of abnormal sounds), brake performance, door opening and closing, emergency power supply, and whether the capacitors are deteriorated. You can save "OK" if each diagnostic completes normally without any abnormalities or changes. Alternatively, you can enter "A1" if there are changes, or "NG" if an abnormality occurs.

[0043] More specifically, the control panel 30 moves the elevator car 22 of the elevator 20 to a designated floor, detecting acceleration, abnormal sounds, and other abnormalities using various sensors installed on the elevator 20. Then, if the acceleration is within the specified range and no abnormal sounds are detected, the system inputs an "OK" diagnostic result regarding operational performance. If the acceleration exceeds the specified range or an abnormal sound is detected, the system inputs "NG" in the operational performance diagnostic result.

[0044] Furthermore, regarding brake performance, the control panel 30 creates a state equivalent to a full car 22 of the elevator 20, releases one of the two brakes, and diagnoses whether the car 22 can be kept stationary using only one brake. Then, if both brakes can keep the car 22 stationary with only one brake when it is full, "OK" is entered in the brake performance diagnostic result. On the other hand, if the car 22 cannot be kept stationary using only one brake, "NG" is entered in the brake performance diagnostic result.

[0045] Furthermore, regarding door opening and closing, with the opening and closing driving force of door 26 lower than usual, the door is opened and closed on each floor. The opening and closing time is used to diagnose any abnormalities such as foreign objects entering the threshold of car 22. If the opening and closing takes longer than usual, foreign objects have entered, and the diagnostic result for door opening and closing is entered as NG. If the opening and closing time is the same as usual, no foreign objects have entered, and the diagnostic result for door opening and closing is entered as OK.

[0046] In addition, regarding the emergency power battery, the voltage is checked. If there is no voltage drop, enter "OK" in the diagnostic results for the emergency power battery; if the voltage drops, enter "NG" in the diagnostic results. A diagnosis is then made regarding whether the capacitor 7 on substrate 6 has deteriorated. Figure 2The following diagrams will provide a detailed explanation. In each diagnostic item, if there is a change compared to the usual value but it does not reach the threshold for abnormal judgment, the result of each diagnostic item is considered to have changed and input as A1. The diagnostic data is stored in the storage unit 47 of the monitoring device 40 (see reference). Figure 2 Afterwards, via the communication unit 42 of the monitoring device 40 (see reference) Figure 2 The data and communication network 35 are sent to the management server 60 and stored in the storage section of the management server 60.

[0047] Next, the operation related to the diagnosis of whether the capacitor 7 on the substrate 6 has deteriorated will be explained in detail. Figure 2 This is a schematic structural diagram of the part of the monitoring device 40 related to the capacitance calculation of capacitor 7. (Example) Figure 2 As shown, the monitoring device 40 includes a measurement circuit section 41, a communication section 42, a timer 43, and a control device 45. The measurement circuit section 41 is a capacitor charging and discharging circuit for charging and discharging the capacitor 7 and measuring the capacitance of the capacitor 7, and includes a switch section 82. The switch section 82 is configured using, for example, a transistor. (To be used later) Figure 3 Let me illustrate an example of the measurement circuit section 41.

[0048] The communication unit 42 consists of an interface for sending and receiving data with external devices such as the communication unit of the control panel 30, the communication unit of the management server 60, and the communication unit of the management device 70. Furthermore, the control device 45 includes a control unit 46 and a storage unit 47. The control unit 46 includes a switch switching unit 46a, a constant current maintenance unit 46b, a capacitance calculation unit 46c, and a degradation determination unit 46d. Figure 3 and Figure 4 The operation of the switch switching unit 46a, the constant current maintenance unit 46b, the capacitor calculation unit 46c, and the degradation judgment unit 46d is explained in detail.

[0049] Figure 3 This is a circuit diagram illustrating the structure of the measuring circuit section 41 and the electrical connection between the measuring circuit section 41 and the capacitor 7 on the substrate 6. (See diagram for details.) Figure 3 As shown, the first electrode plate 7a of the capacitor 7 on the substrate 6 is electrically connected to the first terminal 81a of the measurement circuit section 41, and the first terminal 81a is electrically connected to the ground wire (ground) 80. In addition, the second electrode plate 7b of the capacitor 7 is electrically connected to the second terminal 81b of the measurement circuit section 41, and the second terminal 81b is electrically connected to the first terminal 82a of the switch section 82.

[0050] The second terminal 81b is electrically connected to the ground wire 80 via the voltmeter 83. Furthermore, the second terminal 82b of the switch unit 82 is electrically connected to the high-potential side of the battery 87, and is also electrically connected to the ground wire 80 via the battery 87. The third terminal 82c of the switch unit 82 is electrically connected to the first terminal 84a of the ammeter 84, and the second terminal 84b of the ammeter 84 is electrically connected to the ground wire 80 via the variable resistor 85.

[0051] Figure 4 This diagram illustrates an example of the operational process related to the degradation determination of capacitor 7. (See diagram for example.) Figure 4 As shown, when determining the degradation of capacitor 7, firstly, in step S1, the switch switching unit 46a outputs a signal to the switch unit 82, thereby electrically connecting the first terminal 82a and the second terminal 82b of the switch unit 82. Thus, when the capacitance of capacitor 7 is C and the voltage of battery 87 is V, capacitor 7 carries a charge Q of C × V.

[0052] Next, in step S2, the switch switching unit 46a outputs a signal to the switch unit 82, thereby electrically connecting the first terminal 82a and the third terminal 82c of the switch unit 82. Furthermore, the switch switching unit 46a controls the timer 43 at the instant the first terminal 82a and the third terminal 82c are electrically connected, and the timer 43 starts counting from the instant the first terminal 82a and the third terminal 82c are electrically connected.

[0053] From the instant the first terminal 82a and the third terminal 82c are electrically connected, the charge on the capacitor 7 is discharged. At this time, the constant current maintaining unit 46b, which receives information about the discharge current from the ammeter 84, changes the resistance value of the variable resistor 85, making the discharge current constant. Therefore, the voltage-time relationship in step S2 is as follows: Figure 5 Therefore, the tilt angle of capacitor 7 when the voltage decreases becomes approximately constant. In step S2, the voltage-time relationship (voltage waveform) of capacitor 7 based on the signal from voltmeter 83 and the signal from timer 43 is stored in storage unit 47.

[0054] In step S3, based on the voltage waveform stored in the storage unit 47, the capacitance calculation unit 46c calculates the capacitance C of the capacitor. When the constant current during capacitor 7 discharge is I, the voltage difference during voltage drop is ΔV, and the time difference when the voltage difference ΔV occurs is Δt, the capacitance C can be calculated using C = I·Δt / ΔV. Furthermore, in Figure 5 In the graph, Δt can be calculated as (t2-t1), and ΔV can be calculated as (V1-V2).

[0055] In step S4, the degradation determination unit 46d determines whether the capacitance C calculated in step S3 has become the threshold capacitance C. T Below. Capacitor C T The data is pre-stored in the storage unit 47. When a negative determination is made in step S4, the process moves to step S5, where information indicating that the capacitor 7 is not deteriorated is sent from the monitoring device 40 to the management server 60. For example, OK is entered in the column for whether the capacitor 7 is deteriorated in the diagnostic data stored in the storage unit of the management server 60, and the deterioration determination of the capacitor 7 ends.

[0056] On the other hand, when a negative determination is made in step S4, the process moves to step S6, where information indicating that capacitor 7 has deteriorated is sent from monitoring device 40 to management server 60. For example, NG is entered in the column for whether capacitor 7 has deteriorated in the diagnostic data stored in the storage unit of management server 60, and information indicating that capacitor 7 has deteriorated is sent from monitoring device 40 to management device 70. The display unit 71 of management device 70 displays information indicating that capacitor 7 has deteriorated, and then the deterioration determination of capacitor 7 ends.

[0057] The communication unit 42 of the monitoring device 40 outputs information indicating the degradation of the capacitor 7 to the storage unit of the management server 60. More specifically, the information is output to the area in the storage unit of the management server 60 that stores the corresponding diagnostic result information of the elevator 20. Furthermore, the display unit 71 of the management device 70 displays information indicating the degradation of the capacitor 7. The communication unit 42 of the monitoring device 40 and the display unit 71 of the management device 70 are each included in an output unit that outputs information indicating the degradation of the capacitor 7 when the degradation determination unit 46d determines that the capacitor 7 has degraded.

[0058] The display unit 71 of the management device 70 may not display information indicating that the capacitor 7 has deteriorated, and the output unit may consist only of the communication unit 42. Maintenance personnel typically access the management server 60 to identify the diagnostic information of the elevator to be inspected before performing on-site inspections. Therefore, even if the display unit 71 of the management device 70 does not display information indicating that the capacitor 7 has deteriorated, the maintenance personnel can still identify that the capacitor 7 of the base plate 6 of the elevator 20 to be inspected has deteriorated before performing on-site inspections, and for example, bring a new base plate 6 for replacement to the site. Alternatively, the output unit may include the display unit 71 but not the communication unit 42.

[0059] According to this disclosure, it is confirmed that a person using the display unit 71 of the management device 70 can identify the deterioration of the capacitor 7, and a maintenance operator can replace the capacitor 7. Therefore, control malfunctions caused by the deterioration of the capacitor 7 can be suppressed. Furthermore, the display unit 71 may also be composed of a liquid crystal panel or an organic EL panel, etc. Alternatively, the display unit 71 and the input unit of the management device 70 may also be composed of a touch panel that integrates a touch sensor and a display.

[0060] The initial capacitance of capacitor 7 when it is first used is set to C. F At that time, it can also become C F >C D >C T C D The information is pre-stored in the storage unit 47. Then, the degradation determination unit 46d determines that C calculated in step S3 satisfies C. D >C>C T In the case of a relationship value, information indicating that the capacitance change of capacitor 7 is above a certain threshold is sent from monitoring device 40 to management server 60. For example, A1 can also be entered in the column indicating whether capacitor 7 has deteriorated in the diagnostic data stored in the storage unit of management server 60. In this way, a person who views the information in this column of management server 60 can identify the time approaching the replacement of capacitor 7, which is preferable.

[0061] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the degradation determination was described for one capacitor 7 mounted on the base plate 6 of the elevator 20. However, the degradation determination can also be performed on two or more capacitors mounted on the base plate of the elevator. Also, in the above embodiment, the management server 60 and the management device 70 were described as being located in different facilities. However, the management server 60 and the management device 70 can also be located in the same facility; for example, both the management server 60 and the management device 70 can be located in the monitoring center 8. Furthermore, in this case, the management device 70 can also include the structure of the management server 60, and the management device 70 can perform the operations performed by the management server 60. Moreover, in this case, the management server 60 may not even be present.

[0062] Next, the timing for determining the degradation of capacitor 7 will be explained. Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of when to determine the deterioration of capacitor 7. (See attached diagram.) Figure 6When the deterioration diagnosis system 1 is constructed and begins operation, the process begins. In step S11, the control panel 30 of the elevator 20 determines whether it is the start time of the start date for automatic diagnosis. This determination can be made by the monitoring device 40 sending information indicating the start time to the control panel 30 based on the diagnosis schedule information stored in the storage unit 47, or by storing the diagnosis schedule information in the storage unit of the control panel 30 and using the control unit of the control panel 30 to refer to this information.

[0063] If a negative determination is made in step S11, the control returns to normal and repeats step S11 and subsequent steps. Conversely, if a positive determination is made in step S11, the process moves to step S12, where the control panel 30 determines whether either the car call button (not shown) located at the landing or the destination floor designation button (not shown) located inside the car 22 has been operated (pressed). If a positive determination is made in step S12, the process moves to step S13, and the aforementioned diagnostic control is executed.

[0064] On the other hand, if a negative determination is made in step S12, the process moves to step S14 to perform actions related to the transportation of passengers associated with the operation of at least one of the car call button and the destination floor designation button. Then, after this action is completed, the process moves to step S13.

[0065] In step S15, following step S13, the control panel 30 determines whether the car call button was operated before all diagnostic controls were completed. All diagnostic controls include those using the aforementioned... Figure 4 The control is related to the degradation determination of capacitor 7 as described above. If a negative determination is made in step S15, the control returns, and step S11 and subsequent steps are repeated.

[0066] On the other hand, if a positive determination is made in step S15, the process moves to step S16, interrupts diagnostic control, and then in step S17, performs actions related to passenger transport based on the operation of the elevator call button. After this action is completed, the process moves to step S18, where diagnostic control is performed for items that were not diagnosed. Then, step S15 and subsequent steps are repeated. By performing control related to the degradation determination of capacitor 7 based on a pre-determined schedule, it is less likely to cause inconvenience to passengers, and the degradation determination of capacitor 7 can be performed periodically and automatically.

[0067] The degradation diagnosis system 1 for the capacitor 7 mounted on the base plate 6 of the elevator 20 disclosed herein includes: a measurement circuit section (capacitor charging and discharging circuit) 41, which includes a switch section 82 that selectively switches the charging and discharging of the capacitor 7 mounted on the base plate 6; a storage section (recording section) 47 that records the voltage waveform of the capacitor 7 during at least a portion of the period during which the capacitor 7 is discharging; a capacitance calculation section (arithmetic section) 46c that calculates the capacitance of the capacitor 7 based on the voltage waveform; a degradation determination section (determination section) 46d that determines whether the capacitor 7 has degraded based on the signal from the capacitance calculation section 46c; and an output section (communication section 42 and display section 71) that outputs information that can determine the degradation of the capacitor 7 when the degradation determination section 46d determines that the capacitor 7 has degraded.

[0068] According to this disclosure, the capacitance of capacitor 7 is calculated based on the voltage waveform during capacitor discharge in the measuring circuit section 41. Based on the calculated capacitance, it is determined whether capacitor 7 has deteriorated. If capacitor 7 has deteriorated, an output is provided that confirms the deterioration. Therefore, deteriorated capacitor 7 can be reliably replaced, thereby suppressing malfunctions of the elevator 20.

[0069] Furthermore, the degradation determination unit 46d can also be based on the capacitance C calculated by the capacitance calculation unit 46c and the threshold capacitance C. T This is used to determine whether capacitor 7 has deteriorated.

[0070] Based on this structure, the degradation of capacitor 7 can be easily and accurately determined.

[0071] Alternatively, the voltage waveform described above may be recorded when capacitor 7 is discharging at approximately a constant current.

[0072] According to this structure, the capacitance can be easily and accurately calculated simply by calculating the slope of the voltage waveform.

[0073] Alternatively, a monitoring device 40 may be provided that can send information about the elevator 20 to a management server (information processing device) 60 via a communication network 35. The control panel 30 of the elevator 20 performs pre-determined diagnostic control of the elevator 20 during periods when the elevator 20 is not performing actions related to human transportation, according to a pre-set schedule. This diagnostic control includes control for diagnosing the acceleration performance of the elevator 20, control for diagnosing the brake performance, and control for calculating the capacitance of the capacitor 7. The monitoring device 40 sends diagnostic information about the elevator 20 based on this diagnostic control to the management server 60.

[0074] According to this structure, the degradation determination of capacitor 7 is performed in conjunction with a predetermined period for automatic diagnostics of multiple devices in elevator 20. Therefore, compared to the case where the degradation determination of capacitor is performed independently without the inspection of devices other than capacitor, it is possible to achieve the significant effect of performing the degradation determination of capacitor 7 regularly and automatically without causing inconvenience to passengers.

[0075] In addition, the monitoring device 40 may also include a degradation determination unit 46d.

[0076] Typically, the management server 60 stores data from multiple (large numbers) of elevators 20. Therefore, when the management server 60 performs degradation determination on the capacitor 7, it may place a significant load on the information processing of the management server 60. According to this structure, the degradation determination of the capacitor 7 is performed on the monitoring device 40 on the elevator 20 side. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the significant load placed on the management server 60, which communicates with the monitoring devices 40 of each of the multiple elevators 20. Alternatively, the management server 60 may also have a structure that includes a degradation determination unit 46d.

[0077] Furthermore, the degradation diagnosis method for the capacitor 7 mounted on the base plate 6 of the elevator 20 disclosed herein includes the following steps: selectively switching the charging and discharging of the capacitor 7 mounted on the base plate 6 of the elevator 20; recording the voltage waveform of the capacitor 7 during at least a portion of the period during which the capacitor 7 is discharging; calculating the capacitance of the capacitor 7 based on the voltage waveform; and determining whether the capacitor 7 has degraded based on the capacitance.

[0078] According to this disclosure, the capacitance of capacitor 7 is calculated based on the voltage waveform during capacitor discharge, and the calculated capacitance is used to determine whether capacitor 7 has deteriorated. Therefore, deteriorated capacitor 7 can be reliably replaced, thereby suppressing elevator malfunctions.

[0079] In addition, in the method for diagnosing the deterioration of capacitor 7, the control panel 30 of elevator 20 may perform a pre-determined diagnostic control of elevator 20 during the period when elevator 20 is not performing actions related to the transportation of people, according to a pre-set schedule. This diagnostic control includes control for diagnosing the acceleration performance of elevator 20, control for diagnosing the braking performance, and control for calculating the aforementioned capacitor.

[0080] According to this structure, it is less likely to cause inconvenience to passengers, and the degradation of capacitor 7 can be determined periodically and automatically.

[0081] Furthermore, the elevator 20 disclosed herein includes: a substrate 6 on which a capacitor 7 is mounted; a measurement circuit 41 including a switch 82 that selectively switches the charging and discharging of the capacitor 7; a storage unit 47 that records the voltage waveform of the capacitor 7 during at least a portion of the period during which the capacitor 7 is discharging; and a capacitance calculation unit 46c that calculates the capacitance of the capacitor 7 based on the voltage waveform.

[0082] According to this disclosure, it is possible to accurately diagnose the deterioration of the capacitor 7 mounted on the base plate 6 of the elevator 20, and to suppress control malfunctions caused by the deterioration of the capacitor 7.

[0083] Furthermore, this disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments and their variations, and various improvements and modifications can be made within the scope of the claims of this application and their equivalents.

[0084] For example, in the above embodiment, the case of performing diagnostic control of elevator 20 based on the pre-determined schedule and diagnostic control-related programs stored in the storage unit of control panel 30 or the storage unit 47 of monitoring device 40 is described.

[0085] However, the following system can also be constructed: a monitoring device 40 connected to the control board 6 of the elevator 20 receives diagnostic instructions from an information processing device (e.g., a management server 60), outputs instructions to perform diagnostics from the monitoring device 40 to the board 6, causes the elevator 20 to perform diagnostic control, and sends diagnostic results from the monitoring device 40 to the information processing device to perform elevator diagnostics.

[0086] That is, it is also possible to have a monitoring device 40 that can send information about the elevator 20 to the information processing device via the communication network 35, and the control panel (control device) 30 of the elevator 20 performs pre-determined diagnostic control of the elevator 20 based on the signals from the information processing device. Moreover, the diagnostic control may include control for diagnosing the acceleration performance of the elevator 20, control for diagnosing the brake performance, and control for calculating the capacitance of the capacitor 7, and the monitoring device 40 sends diagnostic information of the elevator 20 based on the diagnostic control to the information processing device.

[0087] In addition, in the method for diagnosing the deterioration of capacitor 7, the control panel 30 of elevator 20 may perform a pre-determined diagnostic control of elevator 20 based on signals received from an information processing device (e.g., management server 60) via a communication network 35. The diagnostic control includes control for diagnosing the acceleration performance of elevator 20, control for diagnosing the brake performance, and control for calculating the capacitance of capacitor 7. The monitoring device 40 sends diagnostic information of elevator 20 based on the diagnostic control to the information processing device.

[0088] Based on these structures, the control panel 30 of the elevator 20, upon receiving diagnostic instructions from the information processing device, coordinates with the diagnostic control of the elevator 20 to determine the deterioration of the capacitor 7. Therefore, compared to the case where the deterioration determination of the capacitor 7 is performed independently without the inspection of equipment other than the capacitor 7, it is less likely to cause inconvenience to passengers.

[0089] Alternatively, during on-site inspections where passengers cannot use elevator 20, maintenance personnel can operate an information terminal, such as a maintenance terminal (maintenance computer) 90 consisting of a laptop computer (see reference). Figure 1 ), thereby enabling control related to the capacitance calculation of capacitor 7.

[0090] That is, the control panel (control device) 30 of the elevator 20 can control the capacitance of the capacitor 7 based on signals sent from the outside when the elevator 20 enters a maintenance mode that does not operate according to the car call button and the destination floor designated button.

[0091] More specifically, it can also be like Figure 1 As shown, the maintenance terminal 90 can be connected to the control panel 30 via at least one wired or wireless connection through the monitoring device 40. It can also be used based on information sent from the maintenance terminal 90 (signals sent from an external source). Figure 4 The control (action) related to the degradation determination of the capacitor 7 described above.

[0092] Alternatively, at least one of wired or wireless methods can be used to directly connect the information terminal (maintenance terminal 90) to the control panel 30. Communication and use can also be based on information (signals) directly sent from the maintenance terminal 90 to the control panel 30. Figure 4 The above-described control (action) related to the degradation determination of capacitor 7.

[0093] Based on these variations, it is possible to determine the deterioration of capacitor 7 when a person (e.g., a maintenance worker) performs maintenance. Therefore, it is less likely to cause inconvenience to passengers.

[0094] Alternatively, in addition to performing diagnostic control of the elevator 20 based on the predetermined schedule and diagnostic control-related programs stored in the storage section of the control panel 30 or the storage section 47 of the monitoring device 40, the control panel (control device) 30 of the elevator 20 may also perform predetermined diagnostic control of the elevator 20 based on signals from the information processing device.

[0095] Alternatively, instead of using the pre-determined schedule and diagnostic control-related programs stored in the storage unit 47 of the control panel 30 or the storage unit 47 of the monitoring device 40, the control panel (control device) 30 of the elevator 20 performs pre-determined diagnostic control of the elevator 20 based on signals from the information processing device.

[0096] Alternatively, in addition to at least one of the following: diagnostic control of the elevator 20 is performed based on a pre-determined schedule and diagnostic control-related procedures stored in the storage section of the control panel 30 or the storage section 47 of the monitoring device 40, or diagnostic control of the elevator 20 is performed by the control panel (control device) 30 based on signals from the information processing device, the control panel (control device) 30 of the elevator 20 performs control for calculating the capacitance of the capacitor 7 based on signals sent from the outside when the elevator 20 enters a maintenance mode where it does not operate according to the car call button and the destination floor designated button.

[0097] Alternatively, instead of performing diagnostic control of the elevator 20 based on the pre-determined schedule and diagnostic control procedures stored in the storage unit 47 of the control panel 30 or the storage unit 47 of the monitoring device 40, and performing pre-determined diagnostic control of the elevator 20 based on signals from the information processing device, the control panel (control device) 30 of the elevator 20 performs control for calculating the capacitance of the capacitor 7 based on signals sent from outside when the elevator 20 enters a maintenance mode that does not operate according to the car call button and the destination floor designated button.

[0098] Furthermore, the degradation diagnosis system for capacitors mounted on a base plate for elevators disclosed herein can also have the following structure.

[0099] Structure 1: A degradation diagnosis system for a capacitor mounted on an elevator board, wherein the degradation diagnosis system comprises: a capacitor charging and discharging circuit, including a switching unit that selectively switches the charging and discharging of a capacitor mounted on the elevator board; a recording unit that records the voltage waveform of the capacitor during at least a portion of the period during which the capacitor is discharging; a calculation unit that calculates the capacitance of the capacitor based on the voltage waveform; a determination unit that determines whether the capacitor is degraded based on a signal from the calculation unit; and an output unit that outputs an output that determines the degradation of the capacitor when the determination unit determines that the capacitor is degraded.

[0100] Structure 2: According to the degradation diagnosis system for a capacitor mounted on an elevator base plate as described in Structure 1, the determination unit determines whether the capacitor has deteriorated based on the capacitance and threshold calculated by the calculation unit.

[0101] Structure 3: A degradation diagnosis system for an elevator base plate equipped with a capacitor as described in Structure 1 or 2, wherein the voltage waveform is recorded when the capacitor discharges at approximately constant current.

[0102] Structure 4: A degradation diagnosis system for an elevator base plate with a capacitor as described in any one of Structures 1 to 3, wherein a monitoring device is provided that can transmit elevator information to an information processing device via a communication network, and the elevator control device performs pre-determined diagnostic control of the elevator during periods when the elevator is not performing human transport-related actions according to a pre-set schedule, the diagnostic control including control for diagnosing the elevator's acceleration performance, control for diagnosing the brake performance, and control for calculating the capacitor, and the monitoring device transmits diagnostic information of the elevator based on the diagnostic control to the information processing device.

[0103] Structure 5: A degradation diagnosis system for an elevator base plate with a capacitor as described in any one of Structures 1 to 4, wherein a monitoring device is provided that can transmit elevator information to an information processing device via a communication network, and the elevator control device performs predetermined diagnostic control of the elevator based on signals from the information processing device. The diagnostic control includes control for diagnosing the acceleration performance of the elevator, control for diagnosing the brake performance, and control for calculating the capacitor. Diagnostic information of the elevator based on the diagnostic control is transmitted from the monitoring device to the information processing device.

[0104] Structure 6: A degradation diagnosis system for an elevator base plate equipped with a capacitor as described in Structure 4 or 5, wherein the monitoring device includes the determination unit.

[0105] Structure 7: A degradation diagnosis system for an elevator base plate equipped with a capacitor according to any one of Structures 1 to 6, wherein the elevator control device performs control for calculating the capacitor based on a signal sent from the outside when the elevator enters a maintenance mode where it does not operate according to the car call button and the destination floor designation button.

[0106] Embodiments of the present invention have been described, but the embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative in all respects and should not be considered limiting. The scope of the invention is set forth in the claims and is intended to include all modifications within the equivalent meaning and scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A degradation diagnosis system for a capacitor mounted on a base plate in an elevator, wherein, The degradation diagnosis system has the following features: A capacitor charging and discharging circuit includes a switching unit that selectively switches the charging and discharging of a capacitor mounted on an elevator base plate. A recording unit that records the voltage waveform of the capacitor during at least a portion of the period during which the capacitor discharges; The arithmetic unit calculates the capacitance of the capacitor based on the voltage waveform; The determination unit determines whether the capacitor has deteriorated based on the signal from the arithmetic unit. as well as The output unit outputs information that determines the degradation of the capacitor when the determination unit determines that the capacitor has deteriorated.

2. The degradation diagnosis system for elevator base plates with mounted capacitors according to claim 1, wherein, The determination unit determines whether the capacitor has deteriorated based on the capacitance and threshold calculated by the calculation unit.

3. The degradation diagnosis system for elevator base plates with mounted capacitors according to claim 1, wherein, The voltage waveform was recorded when the capacitor discharged at a substantially constant current.

4. The degradation diagnosis system for elevator base plates with mounted capacitors according to claim 1, wherein, The degradation diagnosis system includes a monitoring device capable of sending elevator information to the information processing unit via a communication network. The elevator control device performs pre-determined diagnostic control of the elevator during periods when the elevator is not performing actions related to passenger transport, according to a pre-set schedule. The diagnostic control includes control for diagnosing the elevator's acceleration performance, control for diagnosing the brake performance, and control for calculating the capacitance. The monitoring device sends diagnostic information about the elevator based on the diagnostic control to the information processing device.

5. The degradation diagnosis system for elevator base plates with mounted capacitors according to claim 1, wherein, The degradation diagnosis system includes a monitoring device capable of sending elevator information to the information processing unit via a communication network. The elevator control device performs pre-determined diagnostic control of the elevator based on signals from the information processing device. The diagnostic control includes control for diagnosing the elevator's acceleration performance, control for diagnosing the brake performance, and control for calculating the capacitance. The monitoring device sends diagnostic information about the elevator based on the diagnostic control to the information processing device.

6. The degradation diagnosis system for an elevator base plate with a capacitor according to claim 4 or 5, wherein, The monitoring device includes the determination unit.

7. The degradation diagnosis system for elevator base plates with mounted capacitors according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The elevator control device performs control for calculating the capacitance based on signals sent from the outside when the elevator enters a maintenance mode where it does not operate according to the car call button and the destination floor designation button.

8. A method for diagnosing the degradation of capacitors mounted on a base plate for elevators, wherein, The degradation diagnosis method includes the following steps: Selectively switch the charging and discharging of capacitors mounted on the elevator base plate; Record the voltage waveform of the capacitor during at least a portion of the period during which the capacitor is discharging; Calculate the capacitance of the capacitor based on the voltage waveform; and The capacitor is determined to be degraded based on its capacitance.

9. The method for diagnosing the degradation of a capacitor mounted on a base plate for an elevator according to claim 8, wherein, The elevator control device performs pre-determined diagnostic control of the elevator during periods when the elevator is not performing actions related to passenger transport, according to a pre-set schedule. The diagnostic control includes control for diagnosing the acceleration performance of the elevator, control for diagnosing the brake performance, and control for calculating the capacitance.

10. The method for diagnosing the degradation of a capacitor mounted on a base plate for an elevator according to claim 8 or 9, wherein, The elevator control device performs pre-determined diagnostic control of the elevator based on signals received from the information processing device via a communication network. The diagnostic control includes control for diagnosing the elevator's acceleration performance, control for diagnosing the brake performance, and control for calculating the capacitance. The monitoring device sends diagnostic information about the elevator based on the diagnostic control to the information processing device.

11. An elevator, wherein, The elevator has the following features: A substrate with a capacitor mounted on it; A capacitor charging and discharging circuit includes a switching unit that selectively switches the charging and discharging of the capacitor; A recording unit that records the voltage waveform of the capacitor during at least a portion of the period during which the capacitor discharges; as well as The arithmetic unit calculates the capacitance of the capacitor based on the voltage waveform.

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