Power supply control system and power supply control method

Abstract

The invention provides a power supply control system and a power supply control method. The power supply control system controls power supply from a standby power supply to a plurality of building devices including an elevator when a system power supply serving as a main power supply is powered off, the power supply control system comprises a computer, and the computer is provided with a control device and a storage device. The elevator is connected with a control device for controlling a plurality of building devices including the elevator and a battery control system for controlling a battery serving as a standby power source in a mutual data communication mode, and when power is supplied to the elevator from the battery and an instruction for stopping power supply to the elevator from the battery is received, the elevator is powered by the battery. After the receiving of the new call registration of the elevator is stopped, the battery control system is prompted to supply power from the battery to other building equipment related to the lifeline, and when the existing call registration of the elevator exists, the power supply to the elevator is stopped after the operation related to the call registration is completed. The battery control system is caused to supply power from the battery to the other building equipment.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a power supply control technology for reliably supplying power to multiple building devices, including elevators, from a backup power source during a power outage. Background Technology

[0002] In most mid- to high-rise buildings (hereinafter referred to as "buildings"), elevators are installed as a means of moving between floors. From an accessibility perspective, elevators are indispensable for people who have difficulty moving around within buildings, such as wheelchair users and the elderly (hereinafter referred to as "people with mobility difficulties"). Thus, elevators are a particularly important means of transportation within buildings.

[0003] However, in the event of a power outage in a building, such as during a large-scale natural disaster, the movement of people within the building using an elevator is often significantly restricted. A known technique involves supplying power to the elevator from a backup power source during such a power outage, thereby enabling the elevator to operate, for example, to allow or assist individuals with mobility difficulties who are stranded within the building (e.g., Patent Document 1).

[0004] For people stranded in buildings during large-scale natural disasters, ensuring the supply of drinking water and the operation of toilets are crucial from a lifeline perspective. Therefore, during such power outages, it is preferable to also supply power to the pumps installed in the building from the backup power source to operate them, in order to distribute and / or supply drinking water and various domestic water uses.

[0005] Regarding this point, the technology described in Patent Document 1 only considers powering the elevator. Therefore, based on the above viewpoint, in the event of a power outage, it is difficult to achieve, in addition to powering the elevator from the backup power source, other lifeline-related building equipment such as pumps from the backup power source, using existing technology. New technologies are expected to be developed.

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-013735 Summary of the Invention

[0007] The present invention was made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and its object is to provide a technology that can reliably supply power to multiple building equipment, including elevators, from a backup power source during a power outage.

[0008] The power supply control system of the present invention controls the supply of power from a backup power source to multiple building equipment, including elevators, when the main power source fails. The system includes a computer with a control unit and a storage unit, and is interconnected via data communication with a control unit for controlling the multiple building equipment, including the elevator, and a battery control system for controlling the backup power source, the battery. When power is supplied to the elevator from the battery, upon receiving an instruction to stop supplying power from the battery to the elevator, the system stops accepting new call registrations for the elevator and then prompts the battery control system to supply power from the battery to other building equipment related to the lifeline. If there is an existing call registration for the elevator, after the operation related to that call registration is completed, the system stops supplying power to the elevator and prompts the battery control system to supply power from the battery to the other building equipment.

[0009] According to the present invention, in the event of a power outage, power can be reliably supplied from a backup power source to multiple building equipment, including elevators.

[0010] Furthermore, the problems and solutions disclosed in this application become clear through the description of the embodiments used to implement the present invention and the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0011] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the hardware structure of a power supply control system according to an implementation method.

[0012] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the functional blocks of a power supply control system implemented in an embodiment.

[0013] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of a building equipment that serves as the power supply control object of a power supply control system when there is only one elevator.

[0014] Figure 4 This diagram illustrates an example of the structure of a building equipment that serves as the power supply control object for a power supply control system when there are multiple elevators.

[0015] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the power supply control process executed by the power supply control system in an implementation where there is only one elevator.

[0016] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the power supply control process executed by a power supply control system in an implementation where there are multiple elevators. Detailed Implementation

[0017] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments and modifications described below. It also includes examples of modifications to the specific structure without departing from the spirit or essence of the present invention. For example, the following embodiments describe the present invention in detail, but are not limited to having all the structures described.

[0018] In the structure of the invention described below, the same reference numerals are used for the same parts and / or elements, or parts and / or elements having the same function, in different drawings, and sometimes repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0019] Furthermore, when multiple identical parts and / or elements exist, or parts and / or elements with the same function, different subscripts are sometimes used to distinguish these multiple parts and / or elements for description. On the other hand, when it is not necessary to distinguish these multiple parts and / or elements, the subscripts are sometimes omitted for description.

[0020] The markings such as "first," "second," and "third" in this specification are for identifying constituent elements and do not necessarily limit their number, order, or content. Furthermore, characters and numbers used to identify constituent elements are used for each context, and characters and numbers used in one context may not represent the same structure in other contexts. Additionally, a constituent element identified by a particular character or number may also have the function of a constituent element identified by other characters or numbers.

[0021] For ease of understanding, the positions, sizes, shapes, and extents of the structures shown in this specification and / or accompanying drawings do not always represent actual positions, sizes, shapes, or extents. Therefore, this invention is not necessarily limited to the positions, sizes, shapes, and extents disclosed in this specification and / or accompanying drawings.

[0022] Unless explicitly stated in the context of a particular paragraph, the constituent elements expressed in the singular form in this specification include the plural form.

[0023] Additionally, in the following description, "interface device" can refer to more than one interface device. This more than one interface device can be at least one of the following.

[0024] • One or more input / output interface devices. An input / output interface device is an interface device that corresponds to at least one of an I / O (Input / Output) device and a remote display computer. The input / output interface device corresponding to the display computer may be a communication interface device.

[0025] At least one I / O device can be a user interface device, such as an input interface device like a keyboard and pointing device, or an output interface device like a display device.

[0026] • One or more communication interface devices. One or more communication interface devices can be one or more of the same type of communication interface device (e.g., one or more NICs (Network Interface Cards)), or two or more different types of communication interface devices (e.g., NIC and HBA (Host Bus Adapter)). Furthermore, the network accessed by the communication interface device during communication can be the Internet, LAN (Local Area Network), WAN (Wide Area Network), or mobile phone network, but is not limited to these.

[0027] Additionally, in the following description, "storage device" includes at least one memory device (hereinafter also referred to as "memory") as the primary storage device. This memory can be a volatile memory device (hereinafter also referred to as "volatile memory") or a non-volatile memory device (hereinafter also referred to as "non-volatile memory"). Furthermore, in addition to one or more memories, the storage device may also include one or more PDEVs (Physical Storage Devices) as secondary storage devices. These PDEVs are typically non-volatile storage devices (e.g., permanent storage devices), specifically, they can be various storage devices (hereinafter referred to as "storage devices") such as HDDs (Hard Disk Drives), SSDs (Solid State Drives), NVME (Non-Volatile Memory Express) drives, or SCMs (Storage Class Memory).

[0028] That is, in the following description, "storage device" can be at least a memory as a primary storage device and a memory as an auxiliary storage device.

[0029] Furthermore, in the following description, the term "processor" as a control device refers to one or more processor devices. At least one processor device is typically a microprocessor device such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), but may also include other types of processor devices such as GPUs (Graphics Processing Units), MPUs (Microprocessor Units), and DSPs (Digital Signal Processors). At least one processor device can be single-core or multi-core. At least one processor device can be a processing core. At least one processor device can be a broadly defined processor device, including but not limited to the hardware circuitry performing the processing (e.g., FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), CPLD (Complex Programmable Logic Device), or ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit)).

[0030] Furthermore, in the following description, functions are sometimes described using the term "xxx part," but a function can be implemented by a processor executing one or more computer programs (hereinafter also simply referred to as "programs"), by one or more hardware circuits (e.g., FPGA or ASIC), or by a combination thereof. When a function is implemented by a processor executing a program, appropriate storage devices and / or interface devices are used to perform the determined processing; therefore, the function can also be set as at least a part of the processor. Processes described with a function as the subject can also be set as processes performed by the processor (or a device such as a controller having the processor). Programs can be installed from a program source. A program source can be, for example, a program distribution computer or a computer-readable recording medium (e.g., a non-transitory recording medium). The description of each function is one example; multiple functions can also be combined into one function, or one function can be divided into multiple functions.

[0031] Furthermore, in the following description, "program" is sometimes used as the subject to describe processing. However, since the processor executes the program and appropriately uses storage devices and / or interface devices to perform the determined processing, the subject of processing can also be the processor (or a device such as a controller having that processor). A program can be installed from a program source onto a device such as a computer. The program source can be, for example, a program distribution server or a computer-readable (e.g., non-transitory) recording medium. Additionally, in the following description, two or more programs can be implemented as a single program, or a single program can be implemented as two or more programs.

[0032] Furthermore, in the following descriptions, the terms "yyy database" and "yyy table" are sometimes used to describe the information obtained from the input. However, this information can be represented by data of any structure (e.g., structured or unstructured data), or by learning models such as neural networks, genetic algorithms, and random forests that produce outputs corresponding to the input. Therefore, "yyy database" and "yyy table" can be referred to as "yyy information." Additionally, in the following descriptions, the structure of each database and table is an example; a database or table can be divided into two or more databases or tables, and all or part of two or more databases or tables can also be a single database or table.

[0033] Additionally, in the following description, "power supply control system" can be a device or system consisting of one or more physical computers (e.g., a locally deployed device or system), or a system implemented on a physical computing resource base (e.g., a cloud infrastructure) (e.g., a cloud computing system). The power supply control system "displays" information either by displaying the information on a display device owned by the computer (power supply control system), or by the computer (power supply control system) sending the information to the display computer (in the latter case, the information is displayed via the display computer).

[0034] <System Structure Example>

[0035] First, use Figures 1-4 This describes a structural example of the power supply control system 100 according to this embodiment. Among them, Figure 1 This is an example illustrating the hardware structure of the power supply control system 100. Figure 2 This is an example of a function block representing the power supply control system 100. Additionally, Figures 3-4 This is a simplified example illustrating the structure of various building equipment within the building, which is the object of power supply control by the power supply control system 100. Among them, Figure 3 This represents an example of the overall structure of a building when there is only one elevator. Figure 4This represents the overall structure of a building when there are multiple elevators.

[0036] (Example of the overall system structure)

[0037] The power supply control system 100 of this embodiment is a computer system that controls the power supply to reliably supply power from the battery 22, which serves as a backup power source, to multiple building equipment, including elevators (specifically, various building equipment 41 such as elevators and pumps provided in the building), when the system power supply 21, which serves as the main power source, fails. It is implemented by a computer, server, or control board (hereinafter also referred to as a "power supply control device") having the structures described later.

[0038] The power supply control device constituting the power supply control system 100 is connected to the elevator control device 31 (details described later) for controlling the operation of elevators installed in the building via a suitable communication network such as the Internet, dedicated line, or LAN (Local Area Network) (hereinafter referred to as "network") in a manner capable of mutual data communication. The power supply control device and the elevator control device 31 are respectively connected to the network via a known communication device (not shown) in a wired manner, but can also be connected wirelessly.

[0039] Similarly, the power supply control devices constituting the power supply control system 100 are also connected via a network to control devices or control systems of various building equipment (hereinafter collectively referred to as "building equipment") 41 that serve as the main electrical load of the building, such as pumps installed in the building for supplying drinking water and various domestic water uses, air conditioning units installed on each floor of the building, and lighting units, which are the main electrical loads of the building; a control system (not shown) that controls the system power supply 21 that serves as the main power supply of the building; and a battery control system 23 that controls the battery 22 that serves as the backup power supply of the building. These various control devices and control systems are connected to the network via known communication equipment (not shown) in a wired manner, but can also be connected wirelessly.

[0040] Furthermore, the power supply control devices constituting the power supply control system 100 can be, for example, various user terminals (not shown) such as laptops, tablets, and smartphones held by the building's management personnel, who are users of the power supply control system 100, and can communicate with each other via a network. In this case, the user terminal and the network can be connected either wired or wirelessly.

[0041] Furthermore, the power supply control device constituting the power supply control system 100 can also be connected to other devices, apparatuses, terminals, etc. (hereinafter also referred to as "other devices") via a network in a manner that enables data communication. In this case, the other devices and the network can be connected in a wired manner or in a wireless manner via a known communication device (not shown).

[0042] Furthermore, in this embodiment, such as Figures 1-2 As illustrated, the power supply control system 100 has been described as consisting of a single device (power supply control device). However, for example, the power supply control system 100 may also consist of multiple devices.

[0043] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the power supply control device constituting the power supply control system 100 is described as being composed of different devices from other devices, such as the elevator control device 31, control devices for various building equipment 41, user terminals, and other devices (hereinafter collectively referred to as "external devices"). However, the power supply control system 100 and such external devices may also be composed of the same device. In this case, the power supply control system may, for example, be configured as a system that includes these external devices. Additionally, for example, the power supply control system may be configured to include some or all of the functions performed by these external devices.

[0044] (Example of hardware structure of power supply control system 100)

[0045] Next, an example of the hardware structure of the power supply control system 100 of this embodiment will be described using the accompanying drawings.

[0046] The power supply control system 100 of this embodiment is implemented by a computer, which at least includes: a storage device including a memory 102 as a main storage device and a storage device 103 as an auxiliary storage device, an interface device including at least a communication device 104, and a processor 101 connected thereto as a control device. Furthermore, in this power supply control system 100, the interface device may also include an input device 105 and / or an output device 106.

[0047] The following description assumes that the power supply control system 100 is implemented by a general-purpose computer having one or more processors 101, one or more memory 102, one or more storage devices 103, one or more communication devices 104, one or more input devices 105, one or more output devices 106, and a wired or wireless bus connecting them.

[0048] Storage device 103, serving as an auxiliary storage device, is an auxiliary storage device composed of non-volatile storage elements such as flash memory. Specific examples of this storage device 103 include various storage devices such as SSDs (Solid State Drives) and HDDs (Hard Disk Drives). Storage device 103 stores at least a power supply control program 130. This power supply control program 130 is a computer program used to install the functions required by the power supply control system 100.

[0049] That is, by executing the power supply control program 130 by the processor 101, the functions performed by each functional unit of the power supply control system 100, represented by the power supply control unit 131 described later, are realized. In other words, by executing the power supply control program 130 by the processor 101, various processes are performed, including, for example, power supply control processing (hereinafter also referred to as "power supply control processing") for various building equipment 41 provided in the building, such as water pumps, lighting fixtures, and air conditioning units, in addition to elevators and escalators. Furthermore, the subsequent... Figures 5-6 The power supply control process is described in detail in connection with this.

[0050] In addition, the power supply control program 130 is provided to the power supply control system 100 via a network and stored in the storage device 103, which is a non-transitory storage medium.

[0051] Alternatively, the power supply control program 130 can also be installed from a program source. The program source may be, for example, a program distribution computer, a computer-readable recording medium, etc. Furthermore, the power supply control program 130 can consist of a device driver, an operating system, various application programs located at their upper-level layers, and libraries that provide common functionality to these programs. Moreover, two or more programs can be implemented as one power supply control program 130, or one power supply control program 130 can be implemented as two or more programs.

[0052] The memory 102, serving as the main storage device, is primarily composed of volatile storage elements such as RAM (Random Access Memory). Additionally, the memory 102 includes ROM (Read Only Memory), which is composed of non-volatile storage elements. The ROM stores immutable programs (e.g., BIOS). The memory 102 temporarily holds data used to represent various information read from the storage device 103, as well as various data obtained via the communication device 104 and / or the input device 105.

[0053] The processor 101, serving as the control device, comprises a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and various coprocessors. This processor 101 performs comprehensive control of the power supply control system 100 by loading and executing various computer programs, including the power supply control program 130, into the memory 102, and manages the control unit 111, which performs various processing tasks such as calculation, judgment, and control.

[0054] The interface device includes a communication device 104 that manages the communication unit 114 (described later), an input device 105 that manages the input unit 115 (described later), and an output device 106 that manages the output unit 116 (described later).

[0055] The communication device 104 is, for example, a network interface device used to control communication with other equipment, devices, terminals, etc., represented by the elevator control device 31, according to a predetermined protocol.

[0056] Input device 105 is, for example, a touch panel, keyboard, mouse, controller, or other input interface device used to receive input operations from users, operators, etc., of the power supply control system 100.

[0057] Output device 106 is, for example, a display device such as an LCD or touch screen, which is used to output the processing results of power supply control program 130 to users or operators of power supply control system 100 in a recognizable form.

[0058] In addition, the power supply control system 100 can be implemented by a separate device or by an embedded device.

[0059] (Example of function blocks in power supply control system 100)

[0060] Next, use Figures 1-2 An example of the various functional modules possessed by the power supply control system 100 of this embodiment will be described. Furthermore, the blocks described below are not structures of hardware units, but rather blocks representing functional units.

[0061] The power supply control system 100 is configured to mainly include the following functional blocks: a control unit 111 implemented by the processor 101, a main storage unit 112 implemented by the memory 102, an auxiliary storage unit 113 implemented by the storage device 103, a communication unit 114 implemented by the communication device 104, and a user interface unit including an input unit 115 implemented by the input device 105 and an output unit 116 implemented by the output device 106. Furthermore, in the following description, the main storage unit 112 and the auxiliary storage unit 113 are sometimes collectively referred to as storage units (112, 113).

[0062] The control unit 111 performs various data processing based on the programs and data stored in the storage units (112, 113) and the data obtained from the communication unit 114. The control unit 111 also functions as an interface between the storage units (112, 113) and the communication unit 114.

[0063] The control unit 111 has a power supply control unit 131 as a function block by executing the power supply control program 130 described above by the processor 101.

[0064] The power supply control unit 131 performs power supply control processing. Afterwards, it connects with... Figures 5-6 The power supply control process is described in detail.

[0065] The control unit 111 is configured using a processor 101 as a control device. By executing the power supply control program 130 described above, the aforementioned function blocks can be implemented. Alternatively, instead of the processor 101, logic circuits such as FPGAs (Field-Programmable Gate Arrays) or ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits) can be used to configure the control unit 111. Furthermore, for example, the control unit 111 can be configured using a combination of the processor 101 and logic circuits.

[0066] As described above, the storage units (112, 113) are configured to include a main storage unit 112 implemented by a memory 102 as a main storage device and an auxiliary storage unit 113 implemented by a storage device 103 as an auxiliary storage device, storing programs that give various processing commands to the control unit 111 and data representing various information used in the processing performed by the control unit 111.

[0067] Control unit 111 can perform the power supply control process described above by reading and writing data representing this information in storage units (112, 113). Figures 5-6 Various treatments, including (described in detail in relation to each other).

[0068] The communication unit 114 is responsible for communication processing with other devices, apparatuses, terminals, etc., such as the elevator control device 31, via the network. The communication unit 114 is constructed, for example, using a NIC (Network Interface Card) or an HBA (Host Bus Adapter).

[0069] The user interface section (not shown) is composed of function blocks of the input section 115 and the output section 116.

[0070] The input unit 115 is responsible for input-related processing, such as accepting input operations from the user, in user interface-related processing. The input unit 115 is configured using various input devices 105, such as touch panels, keyboards, mice, and controllers, and detects various operations from the user.

[0071] The output unit 116 is responsible for output-related processing, such as displaying various screens and outputting sound to the output device 106, in the user interface-related processing. The output unit 116 is configured using various output devices 106, such as touch screens and liquid crystal displays.

[0072] Furthermore, for example, when remotely logging into the power supply control system 100 from other external devices such as tablets, smartphones, or laptops, or when receiving input information from external devices or providing output information to external devices via the communication device 104, it is not necessary to include an input unit 115 and / or an output unit 116. In such cases, the power supply control system 100 can accept access from external devices based on a predetermined protocol by having a web server function.

[0073] That is, each component of the power supply control system 100 is implemented through hardware and software. The hardware includes a processor 101 as a control device, a memory 102 as a main storage device and a storage device 103 as an auxiliary storage device, a wired or wireless bus connecting them, and an interface device. The software is stored in the storage devices (102, 103) and supplies processing commands to the arithmetic unit (processor 101).

[0074] The above description relating to the functions of the power supply control system 100 is based on the assumption that each function of the power supply control system 100 is implemented by a single computer. However, these functions can also be implemented by multiple interconnected computers and / or servers. Furthermore, the power supply control system 100 may be a structure including a general-purpose computer such as a laptop PC and a web browser installed on that general-purpose computer, or it may be a structure including a web server and various portable devices.

[0075] The power supply control system 100 is a computer system that is physically located on one computer or is logically or physically located on multiple computers. It can also operate on a virtual computer built on multiple physical computer resources. For example, each functional unit such as the power supply control unit 131 can operate on a separate physical or logical computer. Alternatively, multiple functional units can be combined to operate on a single physical or logical computer.

[0076] In addition, the above description of each function is an example. Multiple functions can be combined into one function, or one function can be divided into multiple functions.

[0077] In addition to the functions described above, the power supply control system 100 may also have other functions. For example, the power supply control system 100 may be configured to include a portion of the various functions possessed by other devices.

[0078] (Structural example of elevator control device 31)

[0079] The elevator control device 31 of this embodiment is a computer system for controlling the operation of an elevator having one or more individual units, and is implemented by having multiple computers and / or control boards with the structures described later.

[0080] The elevator control device 31 is configured, for example, to have a general management unit, a single-unit control unit, a separate control unit for the lobby terminal, and a network that connects them in a way that allows them to communicate with each other via various dedicated control lines or the Internet.

[0081] The overall management department, for example, is located in the management office of a building where an elevator, which is the object of control of the elevator control device 31, is installed. It is an information processing terminal that manages the entire elevator system. That is, the overall management department manages all individual units that make up the elevator system.

[0082] The entire management department is composed of functional blocks including the display department and the communication department.

[0083] The display section is responsible for output-related processing, such as displaying various images to a display device, within the user interface-related processing. Display sections may utilize devices such as LCDs or touchscreens.

[0084] The communications unit is responsible for communication processing with other devices, such as the individual control unit set up for each elevator unit, via communication lines (an example of a network) such as LAN (Local Area Network) or dedicated lines. The communications unit is constructed using, for example, NIC (Network Interface Card) and HBA (Host Bus Adapter).

[0085] The single-machine control unit performs various processes related to the control of the single machine that is the object of control.

[0086] The single-machine control unit is composed of functional blocks including a communication interface unit, a motor control unit, a car control unit, and a hall terminal control unit.

[0087] The communication interface unit is responsible for communication processing with other devices such as the overall management unit and the individual lobby terminal control unit (not shown) via communication lines (LAN, local area network) or dedicated lines (an example of a network). The individual lobby terminal control unit is configured corresponding to the lobby terminals (not shown) located at the floor station of the corresponding unit on each lobby floor, and controls the corresponding lobby terminals. The communication interface unit is constructed using, for example, a NIC (Network Interface Card) or an HBA (Host Bus Adapter).

[0088] The motor control unit performs processing related to the control of various elevator drive devices, represented by the power source of this single unit, namely the electric motor (not shown). The motor winds ropes (not shown) installed on the car 33 and the hammer 34, causing the car 33 to rise and fall. The motor control unit controls the operation of the motor so that the car 33 stops at the floor where a hall call has been registered and at the destination floor where a destination call has been registered. The operation of the motor control unit is controlled by the car control unit. The motor operates according to a program read from a program storage unit (not shown).

[0089] The car control unit performs various processes related to the control of the car 33 of this unit. The car 33 moves up and down in an elevator shaft (not shown) provided in the building. The car control unit controls various car actions of the car 33, represented by this up-and-down movement. Other car actions include, for example, illuminating the indicator light notifying the car 33 of its arrival at the lobby floor, setting the destination call corresponding to the registration of the destination floor button inside the car 33, and controlling the opening and closing of the car door of the car 33.

[0090] The overall control unit of the lobby terminal and the individual control units of the lobby terminal, which are respectively associated with the lobby terminal, cooperate to perform various processes related to the control of the lobby terminals installed at the landing stations of the individual units on each lobby floor. The lobby terminals are installed at the landing stations of the individual units on each lobby floor of the building for users to register lobby calls. The overall control unit of the lobby terminal obtains the lobby call information registered at the lobby terminal and outputs the lobby call information to the car control unit. In addition, the overall control unit of the lobby terminal can also output information indicating that the lobby button 37 has been pressed to the car control unit.

[0091] Each lobby terminal has its own independent control unit, corresponding to the lobby terminal located at the floor station of the unit on each lobby floor. The independent control unit performs various processes for controlling the corresponding lobby terminals.

[0092] The input / output control unit controls the components of the lobby terminal, such as the lobby button 37 for registering lobby calls, an indicator showing the floor number of the moving car 33, and the lobby indicator lights connected to the lobby terminal that notify the user that the car 33 has arrived at the lobby floor by illuminating them.

[0093] The power monitoring unit is used to monitor the power supply to the lobby terminal individual control unit and / or lobby terminal.

[0094] In addition, the above descriptions of each function are just examples. Multiple functions can also be combined into one function, or one function can be divided into multiple functions.

[0095] For example, in this embodiment, the case where the overall management unit and the individual control unit are composed of different devices interconnected via a network is described, but the overall management unit and the individual control unit may also be composed of the same device.

[0096] In addition to the functions described above, the elevator control device 31 may also have other functions. For example, the elevator control device 31 may also be configured to include a portion of the functions described later in the power supply control system 100.

[0097] <System Action Example>

[0098] Next, as an example of the operation of the power supply control system 100 in this embodiment, using Figures 5-6 This will explain the flow of power supply control processing performed in the power supply control system 100.

[0099] (Power supply control processing)

[0100] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the power supply control process executed in the power supply control system 100 when there is only one elevator. Additionally, Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the power supply control process executed in the power supply control system 100 when there are multiple elevators.

[0101] In addition, Figure 5 The illustrated example shows the steps of power supply control processing performed by the power supply control system 100 when there is only one elevator. Figure 6 In the case of multiple elevators, the steps of the power supply control process performed by the power supply control system 100 will be explained together for each step of the same process.

[0102] In step S101, the control unit 111 of the power supply control system 100 performs a process for detecting a power outage occurring in the building via the power supply control unit 131. This detects a power outage occurring in the building. When the process in step S101 is completed, the control unit 111 of the power supply control system 100 proceeds to step S102.

[0103] In step S102, the control unit 111 of the power supply control system 100 performs the following processing via the power supply control unit 131: (e.g.) Figures 3-4 As illustrated, the power supply system to the building, which is connected to the main power supply system 21, is switched to the backup power supply battery 22. Thus, the building's power supply system is connected to the backup power supply battery 22. When the process in step S102 is completed, the control unit 111 of the power supply control system 100 proceeds to step S103.

[0104] In step S103, the control unit 111 of the power supply control system 100, through the power supply control unit 131, performs a process to determine whether the power supply mode is active. If the mode is determined to be active (step S103: Yes), in order to continue... Figures 5-6 The power supply control process, as shown in the flowchart, proceeds to step S104. On the other hand, if it is determined that the system is not in battery power mode (step S103: No), the process ends directly. Figures 5-6 The power supply control process is shown in the flowchart.

[0105] In step S104, the control unit 111 of the power supply control system 100 performs a process of determining whether to supply power to the elevator via the power supply control unit 131. If it is determined that power should be supplied to the elevator (step S104: Yes), power is supplied to the elevator from the battery 22, which serves as a backup power source, and the process proceeds to step S105. On the other hand, if it is determined that power should not be supplied to the elevator (step S104: No), power is supplied from the battery 22 to building equipment 41, which is vital as a lifeline, such as a pump, and the process proceeds to step S112.

[0106] In step S105, the control unit 111 of the power supply control system 100 performs the process of supplying power to the elevator from the battery 22, which serves as a backup power source, through the power supply control unit 131. Thus, power is supplied to the elevator from the battery 22, which serves as a backup power source. When the process in step S105 is completed, the control unit 111 of the power supply control system 100 proceeds to step S106.

[0107] In step S106, the control unit 111 of the power supply control system 100 performs a process via the power supply control unit 131 to determine whether there is a power supply request from a building equipment 41, such as a pump, which is vital as a lifeline. If it is determined that there is a power supply request from the building equipment 41 (step S106: Yes), the process proceeds to step S107 to stop accepting new call registrations for the elevator. On the other hand, if it is determined that there is no power supply request from the building equipment 41 (step S106: No), the process returns to step S103.

[0108] In step S107, the control unit 111 of the power supply control system 100 executes a process to stop accepting new call registrations for the elevator via the power supply control unit 131. Thus, accepting new call registrations for the elevator is stopped. When the process in step S107 is completed, the control unit 111 of the power supply control system 100 proceeds to step S108.

[0109] In step S108, the control unit 111 of the power supply control system 100 performs a process via the power supply control unit 131 to determine whether there is an existing call registration for the elevator. If it is determined that there is an existing call registration for the elevator (step S108: Yes), the process proceeds to step S109 in order to serve the corresponding call. On the other hand, if it is determined that there is no existing call registration for the elevator (step S108: No), the process proceeds to step S110 in order to stop the elevator from operating.

[0110] In step S109, the control unit 111 of the power supply control system 100, through the power supply control unit 131, performs processing to serve the corresponding call. Thus, the corresponding call is served. When the processing in step S109 is completed, the control unit 111 of the power supply control system 100 enters the system according to the number of elevators. Figure 5 Step S110 of the flowchart or Figure 6 Step S210 of the flowchart.

[0111] If there is only one elevator, Figure 5 In step S110 of the flowchart, the control unit 111 of the power supply control system 100 executes a process to stop the elevator's operation via the power supply control unit 131. As a result, the elevator stops. When the process in step S110 is completed, the control unit 111 of the power supply control system 100 proceeds to step S111.

[0112] On the other hand, when there are multiple elevators, Figure 6In step S210 of the flowchart, the control unit 111 of the power supply control system 100 executes a process to stop one elevator via the power supply control unit 131. As a result, one elevator stops. When the process in step S110 is completed, the control unit 111 of the power supply control system 100 proceeds to step S111.

[0113] In step S111, the control unit 111 of the power supply control system 100 executes the process of sending a power supply permission for the building equipment 41 via the power supply control unit 131. Thus, a power supply permission for the building equipment 41 is sent. When the process in step S111 is completed, the control unit 111 of the power supply control system 100 proceeds to step S112.

[0114] In step S112, the control unit 111 of the power supply control system 100, through the power supply control unit 131, such as... Figures 3-4 As illustrated, the process of supplying power to the building equipment 41 from the backup power source battery 22 is performed. Thus, power is supplied to the building equipment 41 from the backup power source battery 22. When the process in step S112 is completed, the control unit 111 of the power supply control system 100 enters the following sequence based on the number of elevators: Figure 5 Step S113 of the flowchart or Figure 6 Step S213 of the flowchart.

[0115] If there is only one elevator, Figure 5 In step S113 of the flowchart, the control unit 111 of the power supply control system 100 performs a process to determine whether there is a special call for the elevator via the power supply control unit 131. If it is determined that there is a special call for the elevator (step S113: Yes), the process proceeds to step S114 in order to send a power supply request for the elevator. On the other hand, if it is determined that there is no special call for the elevator (step S13: No), the process returns to step S103.

[0116] On the other hand, when there are multiple elevators, Figure 6 In step S213 of the flowchart, the control unit 111 of the power supply control system 100 performs a process to determine whether there is a special call for the stopped elevator via the power supply control unit 131. If it is determined that there is a special call for the stopped elevator (step S213: Yes), a power supply request for the stopped elevator is sent, and the process proceeds to step S114. On the other hand, if it is determined that there is no special call for the stopped elevator (step S13: No), the process returns to step S103.

[0117] In step S114, the control unit 111 of the power supply control system 100 executes the processing of sending a power supply request for the elevator via the power supply control unit 131. Thus, a power supply request for the elevator is sent. When the processing in step S114 is completed, the control unit 111 of the power supply control system 100 returns to step S105 to continue. Figures 5-6 The power supply control process is shown in the flowchart.

[0118] The embodiments of the present invention described above are summarized below.

[0119] (1) When the system power supply 21, which is the main power supply, fails, the power supply control system 100 controls the power supply from the backup power supply to multiple building equipment, including the elevator. It has a control device (processor 101) and a storage device (memory 102 and / or storage device 103). The power supply control system 100 is configured to include a computer. The computer is connected to the control device (elevator control device 31, etc.) that controls the multiple building equipment, including the elevator, and the battery control system 23 that controls the battery 22, which is the backup power supply, in a data communication manner. When power is supplied to the elevator from the battery 22, when an instruction to stop supplying power from the battery 22 to the elevator is received, after the acceptance of new call registrations for the elevator is stopped, the battery control system 23 is prompted to supply power from the battery 22 to other building equipment 41 related to the lifeline. When there is an existing call registration for the elevator, after the operation related to the call registration is completed, the power supply to the elevator is stopped, and the battery control system 23 is prompted to supply power from the battery 22 to the other building equipment 41. Therefore, when the main power supply 21 fails, the power supply control system 100 can reliably supply power to multiple building equipment, including elevators, from the backup power supply (battery 22). As a result, when the main power supply 21 fails, the power supply control system 100 can also supply power to building equipment 41, which is vital as a lifeline, such as pumps, from the backup power supply (battery 22).

[0120] (2) When the other device is powered from the battery 22, new call registrations for the elevator are stopped, and when the elevator is registered by a specific user (wheelchair user, etc.), the elevator control device (elevator control device 31) is prompted to power the elevator from the battery 22.

[0121] (3) This elevator is one of the many elevators installed in the building.

[0122] Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and can be implemented using any constituent elements without departing from its spirit.

[0123] The above-described embodiments and modifications are merely examples, and the present invention is not limited to these descriptions as long as they do not impair the characteristics of the invention. Furthermore, while various embodiments and modifications have been described above, the present invention is not limited to these descriptions. Other methods considered within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention are also included within the scope of the present invention.

[0124] In the above diagrams, control lines and information lines represent the lines deemed necessary for the description and may not necessarily represent all control lines and information lines installed. For example, in practice, almost all structures can be considered interconnected.

[0125] Furthermore, the configuration of each functional unit of the power supply control system 100 described above is merely one example. The configuration of each functional unit can be optimized from the perspective of the performance, processing efficiency, and communication efficiency of the hardware and software of the power supply control system 100.

[0126] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0127] 100: Power supply control system.

Claims

1. A power supply control system that controls power supply from a backup power source to a plurality of building equipment including an elevator when a system power source as a main power source is powered off, characterized in that the power supply control system is configured to include a computer that has a control device and a storage device, and is connected to a control device for controlling the plurality of building equipment including the elevator and a battery control system that controls a battery as the backup power source in a manner capable of data communication with each other, in a case where the battery supplies power to the elevator, upon receipt of an instruction to stop power supply from the battery to the elevator, after stopping acceptance of a new call registration for the elevator, causing the battery control system to supply power from the battery to other building equipment related to a life line, in a case where there is an existing call registration for the elevator, after completion of operation related to the call registration, stopping power supply to the elevator, and causing the battery control system to supply power from the battery to the other building equipment.

2. The power supply control system according to claim 1, characterized in that, in a case where the other device is supplied with power from the battery, acceptance of a new call registration for the elevator is stopped, in a case where a call registration for the elevator is made from a specific user, causing the control device of the elevator to supply power to the elevator from the battery.

3. The power supply control system according to claim 1, characterized in that the elevator is one of a plurality of elevators provided in the building.

4. A power supply control method that controls power supply from a backup power source to a plurality of building equipment including an elevator when a system power source as a main power source is powered off, characterized in that a computer has a control device and a storage device, and is connected to a control device for controlling the plurality of building equipment including the elevator and a battery control system that controls a battery as the backup power source in a manner capable of data communication with each other, the computer performs the following processing: in a case where the battery supplies power to the elevator, upon receipt of an instruction to stop power supply from the battery to the elevator, after stopping acceptance of a new call registration for the elevator, causing the battery control system to supply power from the battery to other building equipment related to a life line, in a case where there is an existing call registration for the elevator, after completion of operation related to the call registration, stopping power supply to the elevator, and causing the battery control system to supply power from the battery to the other building equipment. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​

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