Elevator system

Abstract

This invention provides an elevator system capable of conducting high-precision intercom communication tests with fewer personnel. The elevator system includes: a car; an intercom located inside the car for voice communication; an operator device located in an information center for voice communication with an operator at the information center; a terminal held by a person inside the car for voice communication; and an information device that, upon receiving a report from the car, relays the voice communication between the intercom and the operator device. The information device accepts changes to the test mode settings corresponding to the car's serial number and the terminal's identification information. When a test mode is set, the intercom is switched to communicate with the terminal instead of the operator device, and the voice communication between the intercom and the terminal is relayed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to elevator systems. Background Technology

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an elevator communication system. According to this system, a terminal device for inspection is installed in response to an intercom located in the elevator car. During inspection, voice is input from the intercom to the terminal device. Afterwards, the terminal device returns the converted voice to the intercom. Operators can then perform intercom inspections independently based on this voice.

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2000-128448

[0004] When a call is requested from the management company via a walkie-talkie, the relay server device functions as a switching unit, assigning the call to the walkie-talkie for the operator making the call. In the communication system described in Patent Document 1, the checking terminal device is connected to the walkie-talkie via a route that does not pass through the relay server device. Therefore, it is difficult to check whether the request from the walkie-talkie was correctly processed by the relay server device, and the accuracy of the check is insufficient. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This invention was made to solve the aforementioned problems. The object of this invention is to provide an elevator system capable of conducting walkie-talkie communication tests with high accuracy using a small number of personnel.

[0006] The elevator system of the present invention includes: a car; an intercom installed inside the car for voice communication; an operator device installed in an information center for voice communication with an operator in the information center; a terminal held by a person inside the car for voice communication; and an information device that, upon receiving a report from the car, relays the voice communication between the intercom and the operator device. The information device accepts changes to the setting of a test mode corresponding to the car's number information and the terminal's identification information. When the test mode is set, the device switches the voice communication between the intercom and the terminal to the terminal instead of the operator device, and relays the voice communication between the intercom and the terminal.

[0007] According to the present invention, the information device serving as a relay server relays communication between a terminal and a walkie-talkie, not an operator device. The person holding the terminal can perform call tests independently. Therefore, walkie-talkie call tests can be performed with high accuracy using fewer personnel. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the elevator system in its normal state in Implementation Method 1.

[0009] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the elevator system under test mode in Implementation Method 1.

[0010] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating the general operation of the elevator system in Implementation Method 1.

[0011] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the elevator system in Implementation Method 2.

[0012] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the general operation of the elevator system in Implementation Method 2.

[0013] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the elevator system in Implementation Method 3.

[0014] Figure 7 This is a hardware structure diagram of the information device of the elevator system in embodiments 1 to 3.

[0015] Label Explanation

[0016] 1: Elevator system; 2: Elevator unit; 3: Remote monitoring device; 4: Car; 5: Intercom; 6: Camera; 7: Display device; 8: Intercom switch; 9: Inspection switch; 10: Information device; 20: Operator equipment; 30: Terminal; 40: Beacon; 50: Maintenance terminal; 100a: Processor; 100b: Memory; 200: Hardware; I: Information center; N1: Network; N2: Company intranet. Detailed Implementation

[0017] The embodiments for carrying out the invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, in the various figures, the same or equivalent parts are labeled with the same reference numerals. Repetitive descriptions of these parts are appropriately simplified or omitted.

[0018] Implementation Method 1

[0019] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the elevator system in its normal state in Implementation Method 1. Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the elevator system under test mode in Implementation Method 1. Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating the general operation of the elevator system in Implementation Method 1.

[0020] Figure 1The elevator system 1 includes an elevator unit 2, a remote monitoring device 3, an information device 10, and operator equipment 20. The elevator unit 2 causes the car 4 to move up and down in a shaft located in a building (not shown). The car 4 is identified by a machine number. The machine number may also include a building number corresponding to the building where the elevator unit 2 is installed. The elevator unit 2 also includes an intercom 5, a camera 6, a display device 7, a communication switch 8, and a check switch 9.

[0021] The walkie-talkie 5 is installed inside the car 4. The walkie-talkie 5 has a microphone for receiving voice input and a speaker for emitting voice. The walkie-talkie 5 is capable of conducting voice conversations via the microphone and speaker. Voice conversations, in the context of a particular device, refer to voice conversations between the device and the target device; this involves sending received voice input to the target device or transmitting voice information received from the target device.

[0022] Camera 6 is installed inside car 4. Camera 6 captures images of the interior of car 4. Camera 6 then transmits the captured image information to the outside.

[0023] The display device 7 displays the received information on a screen. For example, the display device 7 is a liquid crystal display (LCD).

[0024] The intercom switch 8 is located inside the car 4. For example, the intercom switch 8 is located on the car control panel (not shown). The intercom switch 8 is a button for reporting voice calls.

[0025] The inspection switch 9 is located inside the car 4. For example, the inspection switch 9 is located inside a locked inspection window on the inner side of the wall where the car control panel is located. When an operator operates the inspection switch 9, the elevator system 2 enters a special inspection state. For example, when the inspection switch 9 is operated, the operation of the car 4 door stops, indicating that the elevator is trapped inside the car 4. Alternatively, the operation of the inspection switch 9 may trigger the elevator system 2 to detect a state similar to that experienced in other abnormalities or emergencies such as earthquakes.

[0026] A remote monitoring device 3 is installed near the control panel (not shown) of the elevator unit 2. The remote monitoring device 3 is capable of communicating with the control panel, intercom 5, camera 6, display device 7, and intercom switch 8. The remote monitoring device 3 collects information related to the operation of the elevator unit 2 and transmits it externally.

[0027] Information device 10 is installed in a different building than the building where elevator device 2 is installed. For example, information device 10 is installed in the building of the company that maintains and manages elevator device 2, i.e., information center I. Information device 10 communicates with remote monitoring device 3 via network N1. Network N1 is a telephone line, a communication line capable of packet communication, etc.

[0028] For example, operator device 20 is located in information center I. Operator device 20 communicates with information device 10 via the company's intranet N2, which includes information device 10. Operator device 20 has a microphone, speaker, and camera. Operator device 20 can conduct voice calls with operators in information center I through the microphone and speaker. It can also use the camera function of operator device 20 to capture images of the operator's upper body.

[0029] In progress Figure 1 In typical operation, as shown, when a report is issued from the car 4, voice communication takes place between the intercom 5 and the operator equipment 20. Specifically, reports from the car 4 are made via the remote monitoring device 3 at designated times, such as when the intercom switch 8 inside the car 4 is activated or when an abnormality is detected in the elevator system 2. Additionally, reports can also be made from the car 4 when an abnormality, such as entrapment, is detected due to the activation of the inspection switch 9 inside the car 4.

[0030] Voice calls are transmitted from the intercom 5 in car 4 to the information device 10 via the remote monitoring device 3 and network N1. The information device 10 then transmits the voice call from car 4 to the operator device 20, which is designated as the recipient of the voice call, via communication equipment constituting the company's internal network N2. The operator device 20 responds to the voice call transmission, thus establishing voice communication between the intercom 5 and the operator device 20. At this time, the information device 10 relays the voice call between the intercom 5 and the operator device 20.

[0031] During a voice call between walkie-talkie 5 and operator equipment 20, information device 10 receives information from the image captured by camera 6 and sends the image information from camera 6 to operator equipment 20. The image captured by camera 6 is then displayed on operator equipment 20.

[0032] Additionally, during voice communication between the walkie-talkie 5 and the operator device 20, the information device 10 can also receive information about images captured using the camera function of the operator device 20 and send the operator's image information to the display device 7. In this case, the image of the operator captured using the camera function of the operator device 20 is displayed on the display device 7.

[0033] exist Figure 2The text outlines a summary of communication tests conducted using walkie-talkie 5, etc. For example, communication tests are performed by operators when walkie-talkie 5 is started, or during routine inspections of elevator unit 2. Elevator system 1 also includes a terminal 30 held by operators.

[0034] Terminal 30 can be a portable terminal such as a smartphone, or a maintenance terminal such as a laptop. For example, terminal 30 can connect to the company's intranet N2 wirelessly. Terminal 30 communicates with information device 10 via the intranet N2. Terminal 30 is assigned identification information corresponding to the ID of the operator holding terminal 30. The identification information of terminal 30 can be the terminal 30's phone number or the terminal 30's address in the company's intranet N2.

[0035] Terminal 30 has functions such as displaying information on a screen, emitting sound through a speaker, receiving sound input through a microphone, receiving operation buttons from a user, and capturing images through a camera. Using the microphone and speaker, terminal 30 can conduct voice calls.

[0036] Dedicated applications can also be stored in terminal 30. The terminal 30 screen can also display an interface for call testing via these dedicated applications. Subsequent operations on terminal 30 can then be performed within this interface.

[0037] When conducting a call test, the information device 10 is pre-registered. Pre-registration can be performed by the operator via terminal 30, or by any person based on a work order submitted to the information center I. The pre-registered items include the car number 4 for which the call test is being conducted, the date of the test, and the time period for the test. The pre-registered items may also include the operator's ID, or the identification information of the terminal 30 associated with that ID. Alternatively, the information device 10 may store a database recording combinations of operator IDs and terminal 30 identification numbers, and the information device 10 obtains the terminal 30 identification number based on this database and the operator's ID identified from the company's intranet N2. Furthermore, pre-registration is not mandatory and may be omitted.

[0038] When conducting a call test, the operator changes the settings of the information device 10 to the test mode via the operating terminal 30. At this time, the operator inputs the car number information of the car 4 to be tested into the terminal 30. The information device 10 processes the change in test mode settings by matching the car number information of car 4 input into the terminal 30 with the identification information of the terminal 30.

[0039] After the test mode is set, if a report is issued from the car 4 corresponding to the test mode, the information device 10 will switch the voice communication with the intercom 5 installed in the car 4 to the terminal 30 with the corresponding identification information, instead of switching to the operator device 20. Then, the voice communication between the intercom 5 and the terminal 30 will begin.

[0040] At this time, the information device 10 relays the voice communication between the walkie-talkie 5 and the terminal 30. Specifically, the voice information input to the walkie-talkie 5 is input to the terminal 30 via the remote monitoring device 3, network N1, information device 10, and the company intranet N2. The terminal 30 broadcasts the input voice through its speaker. The voice information input to the terminal 30 is also input to the walkie-talkie 5 via the company intranet N2, information device 10, network N1, and remote monitoring device 3. The walkie-talkie 5 then broadcasts the input voice.

[0041] Additionally, the information device 10 can also transmit information about the images captured by the camera 6 to the terminal 30 when relaying voice communication between the walkie-talkie 5 and the terminal 30. In this case, the image information is input to the terminal 30 via the same path as the voice information from the walkie-talkie 5. The terminal 30 then displays the images of the interior of the car 4 captured by the camera 6, along with the voice information from the walkie-talkie 5.

[0042] Additionally, when relaying voice communication between the walkie-talkie 5 and the terminal 30, the information device 10 can also send information about the images captured by the terminal 30 to the display device 7. In this case, the image information is input to the remote monitoring device 3 via the same path as the voice information from the terminal 30, and then input from the remote monitoring device 3 to the display device 7. The display device 7 displays images of workers, etc., captured by the terminal 30, along with the voice information from the terminal 30.

[0043] Afterwards, one operator conducts a call test to determine whether the voice call between the walkie-talkie 5 and the terminal 30 is conducted without problems, whether the voice call quality is good, whether the image captured by the camera 6 is displayed on the terminal 30 without problems, and whether the image captured by the terminal 30 is displayed on the display device 7 without problems.

[0044] Furthermore, during a voice call between walkie-talkie 5 and terminal 30 in a call test, the sound pressure level of the voice from walkie-talkie 5 can be displayed on the screen of terminal 30. The sound pressure level can be a value representing sound pressure, such as a dB value, or a graph representing the sound pressure level. The sound pressure level can be calculated by information device 10 based on the voice information from walkie-talkie 5, or it can be calculated by terminal 30.

[0045] Next, use Figure 3 This describes the actions involved in the call test. Prior registration related to the call test has been completed before proceeding with the actions outlined in the flowchart. In this example, the actions in the flowchart begin when the operator arrives at car 4, where the call test is being conducted.

[0046] In step S01, the operator accesses the information device 10 from the terminal 30. The operator inputs the car number information of the car 4 into the terminal 30. Alternatively, the car number information of the car 4 can also be pre-input into the terminal 30. The terminal 30 inputs a setting change to the test mode into the information device 10.

[0047] Subsequently, in step S02, the information device 10 receives a change to the test mode setting. In this case, the information device 10 switches from the normal operating mode to set the test mode.

[0048] Furthermore, in step S02, if the information device 10 receives a setting change at a time that is not within the time period included in the prior registration of the car 4, it may also refuse to accept the setting change. In this case, it is possible to prevent the setting of the test mode in an incorrect car 4.

[0049] Following step S02, in step S03, the operator operates a switch located inside the car 4 to issue a report from the car 4. For example, the operator activates the inspection switch 9 of the car 4 to entrap the car 4 and issues a communication report from the car 4. For another example, the operator activates the communication switch 8 inside the car 4 to issue a communication report from the car 4.

[0050] Subsequently, in step S04, based on the report from the car 4, the information device 10 switches the target of the voice call with the intercom 5 to the terminal 30 corresponding to the identification information set to test mode. That is, when the test mode is set and a report is issued from the car 4, the information device 10 switches the target of the voice call with the intercom 5 to the terminal 30 instead of the operator device 20. The voice call between the intercom 5 and the terminal 30 begins.

[0051] Next, in step S05, the operator conducts a call test. That is, the walkie-talkie 5 conducts a voice call with the terminal 30. The image captured by the camera 6 can also be displayed on the terminal 30. Alternatively, the image captured by the terminal 30 can be displayed on the display device 7.

[0052] Then, in step S06, the operator terminates the call test by performing a termination operation on terminal 30.

[0053] Subsequently, in step S07, the information device 10 switches the car 4 from the test mode to the normal operating mode. Alternatively, the information device 10 can also switch the car 4 from the test mode to the normal operating mode at the end of a pre-registered time period.

[0054] After that, the flowchart's actions are complete.

[0055] Alternatively, in step S01, the operator can also input "connect to operator device 20 as usual" into terminal 30. In this case, the actions after step S02 can be skipped, and the usual reporting actions can be performed. That is, the operator conducts a call test with the operator through operator device 20.

[0056] According to Embodiment 1 described above, the elevator system 1 includes a car 4, an intercom 5, an operator device 20, a terminal 30, and an information device 10. Typically, the information device 10 relays voice communication between the intercom 5 and the operator device 20. Furthermore, conventionally, call testing is performed by two people—the operator and the staff member inside the car 4—conducting a voice call between the intercom 5 and the operator device 20. In Embodiment 1, when a test mode is set, the information device 10 switches the voice communication with the intercom 5 to the terminal 30 instead of the operator device 20. Therefore, a person inside the car 4 can conduct the call test independently. Additionally, the voice communication between the intercom 5 and the terminal 30 is relayed by the information device 10 in a manner largely similar to normal voice communication. As a result, the elevator system 1 can perform high-precision call testing of the intercom 5 with fewer personnel.

[0057] Furthermore, when the information device 10 issues a report from the car 4 in test mode, it switches the voice communication with the intercom 5 to the terminal 30 instead of the operator device 20. For example, if an anomaly is detected due to the operation of a switch such as the inspection switch 9 located inside the car 4, a report is issued from the car 4. Therefore, during a call test, the report from the car 4 can be used to check whether the voice call has started normally.

[0058] Additionally, during a voice call between walkie-talkie 5 and terminal 30, the sound pressure level of the voice from walkie-talkie 5 can be displayed on terminal 30. Therefore, the owner of terminal 30 can quantitatively test the call status with walkie-talkie 5. Furthermore, the owner of terminal 30 can ascertain the status of the voice from walkie-talkie 5 without needing to have the voice played back from terminal 30.

[0059] In addition, elevator system 1 is also equipped with camera 6. When relaying voice communication between intercom 5 and terminal 30, information device 10 sends information of the image captured by camera 6 to terminal 30. The image is then displayed on terminal 30. Therefore, through elevator system 1, operators can also test camera 6 simultaneously with call testing.

[0060] In addition, elevator system 1 also includes a display device 7. When relaying voice communication between intercom 5 and terminal 30, information device 10 sends information about the image captured by terminal 30 to display device 7. The image is then displayed on display device 7. Therefore, through elevator system 1, operators can also test whether the image from operator equipment 20 is accurately displayed on display device 7, along with the call test.

[0061] Alternatively, the voice call between the intercom 5 and terminal 30 can be initiated not through a report from car 4, but through a start notification from terminal 30. In this case, after the operator inputs a setting change to the test mode from terminal 30, the operator initiates the call from terminal 30. Upon receiving the start notification, information device 10 extracts the test mode information corresponding to the identification information of terminal 30. Information device 10 establishes a voice call between terminal 30 corresponding to the test mode and intercom 5 corresponding to the car 4's serial number information. Then, information device 10 relays the voice call between intercom 5 and terminal 30. In this case, the operator can start the call test at any time.

[0062] Furthermore, terminal 30 can be held not only by operational personnel, but also by individuals other than employees of the maintenance company, such as building owners. In this case, the person can conduct call tests. As a result, call tests can be performed without the need for personnel to go to the site, especially in emergencies.

[0063] Implementation Method 2

[0064] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the elevator system in Implementation Method 2. Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating an outline of the operation of the elevator system in Embodiment 2. Furthermore, parts that are identical or equivalent to those in Embodiment 1 are labeled with the same reference numerals. Descriptions of these parts are omitted.

[0065] In embodiment 2, terminal 30 also has the function of automatically obtaining the car number information of elevator car 4. Here, automatically obtaining the car number information of elevator car 4 means that the person holding terminal 30 does not need to manually enter the car number information, but terminal 30 can recognize the car number information. There are several examples of methods for terminal 30 to automatically obtain the car number information of elevator car 4.

[0066] In the first example of the acquisition method, terminal 30 has the function of obtaining its own current location. For example, terminal 30 obtains its current location via GPS. The information device 10 stores the car number information of car 4 and the map information corresponding to the location. Based on the map information and the current location, terminal 30 obtains the car number information of car 4 corresponding to the current location. For example, terminal 30 can perform the process of obtaining the car number information of car 4 when the operator communicates with the information device 10, or it can perform the process of obtaining the car number information of car 4 at a predetermined time.

[0067] In the second example of the acquisition method, terminal 30 uses the operator's schedule information to obtain the car number information. For example, the operator's schedule information is pre-registered in the information device 10, terminal 30, data server included in the company's intranet N2, etc. The schedule information includes information such as the operator's intention to conduct a call test in car 4, the car number information of car 4, and the time period for conducting the call test, including the start time of the test. Terminal 30 automatically obtains the car number information of car 4 for which the operator's work is scheduled from the schedule information. For example, terminal 30 can perform the process of obtaining the car number information when the operator communicates with information device 10, or it can perform the process of obtaining the car number information when the test time included in the schedule information is reached.

[0068] In the third example of the acquisition method, elevator system 1 is equipped with a QR code. The QR code is located inside the car 4. The QR code is a code that displays information, such as a QR code (registered trademark). The information displayed by the QR code includes the car number information of car 4. Terminal 30 scans the QR code using its camera function, thereby reading the QR code. Terminal 30 extracts the car number information of car 4 from the QR code, thus obtaining the car number information.

[0069] In the fourth example of the acquisition method, such as Figure 4 As shown, the elevator system 1 also includes a beacon 40. For example, the beacon 40 can be installed at a landing of the car 4, or it can be installed within the car 4 itself. The beacon 40 transmits radio waves containing the car number information of the car 4. The terminal 30 has the function of receiving these radio waves. The terminal 30 obtains the car number information of the car 4 from the radio waves transmitted by the beacon 40. The terminal 30 can perform the process of obtaining the car number information of the car 4 when the operator communicates with the information device 10, or it can perform the process of obtaining the car number information of the car 4 when it detects the reception of the radio waves from the beacon 40.

[0070] When changing the test mode setting via information device 10, terminal 30 uses the automatically acquired car number information of car 4. That is, the test mode setting change in information device 10 is performed from terminal 30 using the car number information of car 4 acquired by terminal 30. For example, when an operator makes a setting change, the acquired car number information of car 4 is pre-entered into the screen of terminal 30. The operator performs the operation intended to make the setting change, thus changing the setting to the test mode.

[0071] Alternatively, terminal 30 can send a request to information device 10 to change the setting of the test mode upon obtaining the car number information of car 4, without relying on operator intervention. In this case, information device 10 can also set the test mode based on the request. Furthermore, information device 10 can also set the test mode based on the request only if the car number information of car 4 included in the request matches the information previously registered.

[0072] Next, use Figure 5 An example of the operation of elevator system 1 in embodiment 2 will be described. The flowchart is in conjunction with... Figure 3 The flowchart begins under the same conditions.

[0073] In step S11, when the staff starts the call test, they can access the function of changing the test mode settings from the terminal 30.

[0074] Subsequently, in step S12, terminal 30 obtains the car number information of car 4.

[0075] Then, in step S13, the terminal 30 inputs a change to the test mode setting of the information device 10.

[0076] Then, in steps S02 to S07, the same process as in Embodiment 1 is performed. Figure 3 The same actions as in the flowchart.

[0077] Furthermore, terminal 30 may also be based on the operator's pre-set schedule information, rather than on the operator's operation. If the test time falls within the schedule information, terminal 30 sends a request to information device 10 to change the setting to test mode, including the car number information corresponding to the test time. Upon receiving the request, information device 10 changes the setting to test mode.

[0078] Furthermore, terminal 30 can also send a similar request to information device 10 to change the setting to test mode when it detects that terminal 30 is present in car 4. For example, terminal 30 can also detect its presence in car 4 based on its current location. Terminal 30 can also detect its presence in car 4 when it reads a QR code located inside car 4. Terminal 30 can also detect its presence in car 4 when it receives radio waves transmitted by beacon 40. Upon receiving this request, information device 10 changes the setting to test mode.

[0079] According to Embodiment 2 described above, the terminal 30 obtains the car number information of the elevator car 4. The setting change to test mode utilizes the car number information of the car car 4 obtained by the terminal 30. Therefore, the person operating the terminal 30 does not need to investigate and input the car number information of the car car 4. Furthermore, it is possible to suppress erroneous input of the car number information. As a result, in the elevator system 1, the setting change to test mode can be performed with simple steps and greater accuracy. Furthermore, if the person holding the terminal 30 is not an employee of the maintenance company, such a person may not be able to obtain the car number information. In the elevator system 1 of Embodiment 2, such a person can perform the setting change to test mode without obtaining the car number information.

[0080] Furthermore, the voice call between the intercom 5 and the terminal 30 can also be initiated via a start notification from the terminal 30, rather than through a report from the car 4. In this case, the terminal 30 can also send a start notification containing the car number information of the car 4 and the identification information of the terminal 30 to the information device 10 upon obtaining the car number information of the car 4. That is, the operator can conduct the call test without operating the switches inside the car 4. Therefore, the elevator system 1 can shorten the operation time.

[0081] Implementation Method 3

[0082] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the elevator system in Embodiment 3. Furthermore, parts that are the same as or equivalent to those in Embodiment 1 or 2 are labeled with the same reference numerals. Descriptions of these parts are omitted.

[0083] In Implementation Method 3, before the call test, the operator connects the maintenance terminal 50 to the internal terminal of the car 4. At this time, the information device 10 obtains the ID of the operator holding the maintenance terminal 50 connected to the car 4, and the car number information of the car 4 connected to the maintenance terminal 50, via the company's internal network N2 or the remote monitoring device 3. That is, the information device 10 obtains the identification information corresponding to the maintenance terminal 50 and the car number information of the car 4. Then, the information device 10 associates the identification information of the terminal 30 associated with the operator's ID and the car number information of the car 4 with the test mode.

[0084] The information device 10 can change the setting to the test mode when connected to the maintenance terminal 50, or it can change the setting to the corresponding test mode based on the operation from the terminal 30.

[0085] According to Embodiment 3 described above, when the maintenance terminal 50 is connected, the information device 10 obtains the identification information of the terminal 30 corresponding to the maintenance terminal 50 and the car number information of the car 4. Therefore, the operation of inputting the car number information, etc., by the operator can be omitted.

[0086] Alternatively, the maintenance terminal 50 can be the same device as the terminal 30.

[0087] Next, use Figure 7 Examples of hardware for the information devices that constitute an elevator system are explained.

[0088] Figure 7 This is a hardware structure diagram of the information device of the elevator system in embodiments 1 to 3.

[0089] The functions of the information device 10 can be implemented by a processing circuit. For example, the processing circuit includes at least one processor 100a and at least one memory 100b. For example, the processing circuit includes at least one dedicated hardware 200.

[0090] When the processing circuit includes at least one processor 100a and at least one memory 100b, the functions of the information device 10 are implemented by software, firmware, or a combination of software and firmware. At least one of the software and firmware is described as a program. At least one of the software and firmware is stored in at least one memory 100b. At least one processor 100a implements the functions of the information device 10 by reading and executing the program stored in at least one memory 100b.

[0091] When the processing circuit has at least one dedicated hardware 200, the processing circuit is implemented, for example, by a single circuit, a composite circuit, a programmable processor, a parallel programmable processor, an ASIC, an FPGA, or a combination thereof. For example, each function of the information device 10 is implemented by the processing circuit. For example, each function of the information device 10 is implemented by the processing circuit.

[0092] Regarding the various functions of the information device 10, some can be implemented by dedicated hardware 200, while others can be implemented by software or firmware. For example, the function of relaying voice calls can also be implemented by processing circuitry as dedicated hardware 200, and functions other than relaying voice calls can also be implemented by reading and executing programs stored in at least one memory 100b by at least one processor 100a.

[0093] In this way, the processing circuit implements the functions of the information device 10 through hardware 200, software, firmware, or a combination thereof.

[0094] Although not illustrated, the functions of terminal 30 are implemented by the same processing circuits that implement the functions of information device 10.

[0095] Furthermore, at least some of the functions of the information device 10 can also be implemented on a cloud server. In this case, the processing circuit is composed of multiple partial circuits. These multiple partial processing circuits are respectively located in multiple devices constituting the cloud server. The multiple devices constituting the cloud server can also be located in different buildings.

[0096] In summary, the structures that can be adopted by the technology of the present invention include the following structures shown as appendices.

[0097] (Postscript 1)

[0098] An elevator system includes: a car; an intercom installed inside the car for voice communication; an operator device installed in an information center for voice communication with an operator in the information center; a terminal held by a person inside the car for voice communication; and an information device that, upon receiving a report from the car, relays the voice communication between the intercom and the operator device. The information device accepts changes to the setting of a test mode corresponding to the car's serial number and the terminal's identification information. When the test mode is set, the information device switches the target of the voice communication between the intercom to the terminal instead of the operator device, thus relaying the voice communication between the intercom and the terminal.

[0099] (Postscript 2)

[0100] According to the elevator system described in Appendix 1, when the information device has set the test mode and issued a report from the car, it switches the target of the voice communication with the intercom to the terminal instead of the operator equipment.

[0101] (Note 3)

[0102] According to the elevator system described in Appendix 2, when an abnormality is detected due to the operation of a switch located inside the car, a report is made from the car.

[0103] (Postscript 4)

[0104] According to any one of Annexes 1 to 3, in the elevator system, the information device initiates a relay of voice communication between the intercom and the terminal when the test mode is set and a start notification is received from the terminal.

[0105] (Note 5)

[0106] According to any one of Annexes 1 to 4, in the elevator system, the terminal automatically obtains the car number information, and the setting change of the test mode in the information device is performed from the terminal by using the obtained car number information.

[0107] (Note 6)

[0108] According to the elevator system described in Appendix 5, the terminal is able to obtain the current position and the car number information corresponding to the obtained current position.

[0109] (Note 7)

[0110] According to the elevator system described in Appendix 5, the terminal obtains the car number information for which work has been scheduled in the schedule information of the operator holding the terminal.

[0111] (Note 8)

[0112] According to the elevator system described in Appendix 5, the elevator system also has a QR code, which is set inside the car to display the car number information. The terminal obtains the car number information by reading the QR code.

[0113] (Note 9)

[0114] According to the elevator system described in Appendix 5, the elevator system further includes a beacon located at a landing of the car or in the car, which transmits radio waves containing the car's number information, and the terminal obtains the car's number information from the radio waves transmitted by the beacon.

[0115] (Postscript 10)

[0116] According to any one of Annexes 5 to 9, in the elevator system, when the terminal obtains the car number information, it sends a request to the information device to change the setting of the test mode, and the information device sets the test mode upon receiving the request from the terminal.

[0117] (Postscript 11)

[0118] According to any one of Annexes 1 to 10, in the elevator system, the terminal sends a request to the information device to change the setting of the test mode when the test time is included in the schedule information of the operator holding the terminal or when the presence of the terminal in the car is detected, and the information device sets the test mode upon receiving the request from the terminal.

[0119] (Postscript 12)

[0120] According to any one of Annexes 1 to 11, in the elevator system, when the intercom is conducting a voice conversation with the terminal, the terminal displays the sound pressure level of the voice from the intercom.

[0121] (Postscript 13)

[0122] The elevator system according to any one of Annexes 1 to 12, wherein the elevator system further comprises a camera for capturing images of the interior of the car, and the information device transmits information of the images captured by the camera to the terminal when relaying voice communication between the intercom and the terminal.

[0123] (Postscript 14)

[0124] The elevator system according to any one of Annexes 1 to 13, wherein the elevator system further comprises a display device disposed in the car, which displays received information on a screen, the terminal being capable of capturing images, and the information device transmitting information of the images captured by the terminal to the display device when relaying voice communication between the intercom and the terminal.

Claims

1. An elevator system comprising: The car; A walkie-talkie, installed inside the car, is capable of voice communication; Operator equipment, located in the information center, is capable of conducting voice calls with the operators in the information center; A terminal, held by a person inside the car, is capable of making voice calls; as well as An information device that, upon receiving a report from the car, relays the voice communication between the intercom and the operator equipment. The information device accepts changes to the test mode settings corresponding to the car's number information and the terminal's identification information. When the test mode is set, the information device switches the target of the voice call between the walkie-talkie and the terminal to the terminal instead of the operator equipment, and relays the voice call between the walkie-talkie and the terminal.

2. The elevator system according to claim 1, wherein, When the test mode is set and a report is issued from the car, the information device switches the target of the voice call with the intercom to the terminal instead of the operator equipment.

3. The elevator system according to claim 2, wherein, When an anomaly is detected due to the operation of a switch located inside the car, a report is made from the car.

4. The elevator system according to claim 1, wherein, When the information device has set the test mode and received a start notification from the terminal, it begins relaying the voice call between the walkie-talkie and the terminal.

5. The elevator system according to claim 1, wherein, The terminal automatically obtains the car number information. The test mode setting change in the information device is performed from the terminal using the acquired car number information.

6. The elevator system according to claim 5, wherein, The terminal can obtain the current location and the car number information corresponding to the obtained current location.

7. The elevator system according to claim 5, wherein, The terminal obtains the car number information for the job scheduled in the schedule information of the operator holding the terminal.

8. The elevator system according to claim 5, wherein, The elevator system also features a QR code, which is located inside the elevator car and displays the car number information. The terminal obtains the car number information by reading the QR code.

9. The elevator system according to claim 5, wherein, The elevator system also includes a beacon, which is installed at a landing or inside the car to transmit radio waves containing the car's number information. The terminal obtains the car number information from the radio waves transmitted by the beacon.

10. The elevator system according to any one of claims 5 to 9, wherein, When the terminal obtains the car number information, it sends a request to the information device to change the setting to the test mode. The information device sets the test mode upon receiving the request from the terminal.

11. The elevator system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, When the terminal is included in the schedule information of the operator holding the terminal for a test time, or when the presence of the terminal in the elevator car is detected, the terminal sends a request to the information device to change the setting to the test mode. The information device sets the test mode upon receiving the request from the terminal.

12. The elevator system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, When the walkie-talkie and the terminal are having a voice call, the terminal displays the sound pressure level of the voice from the walkie-talkie.

13. The elevator system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, The elevator system is also equipped with a camera to capture images of the interior of the elevator car. When relaying a voice call between the walkie-talkie and the terminal, the information device sends information about the image captured by the camera to the terminal.

14. The elevator system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, The elevator system also includes a display device installed in the elevator car, which displays the received information on a screen. The terminal is capable of capturing images. When relaying a voice call between the walkie-talkie and the terminal, the information device sends information about the images captured by the terminal to the display device.

Images