Signal converter

Abstract

To provide a signal converter used for renewing an elevator without inconveniencing a user.SOLUTION: This signal converter comprises: an input unit 501 including n input terminals individually connected to n constituents controlled by a control panel; an output unit 504 including n output terminals individually connected at the constituents to a new control panel different from the control panel; and a signal conversion unit 503 that converts a transmission information signal input from the input unit 501 and output from each constituent into another signal understandable by the new control panel, and the signal converted by the signal conversion unit 503 is output to the new control panel. The signal converter further comprises an output unit 505 including n output terminals individually connected to the n constituents; an input unit 502 including n input terminals individually connected at the constituents to the new control panel; and a signal conversion unit 503 that converts a transmission information signal input from the input unit 502 and output from the new control panel into another signal understandable by each constituent, and the signal converted by the signal conversion unit 503 is output to each constituent.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a replacement construction method for replacing components of an elevator having a plurality of components, a signal conversion device used in the replacement construction, and an elevator renewal method. [Background technology]

[0002] Traditionally, when renovating elevator equipment in a multi-story building, the elevator shaft is reused and all of the components that make up the elevator are often replaced, including the elevator car and the drive mechanism that raises and lowers the car.

[0003] Furthermore, thanks to recent technological improvements, elevators controlled using new technology have functions and performance that are far superior to existing elevators. For this reason, when renovating an elevator, the control panel that controls the drive mechanism and other components is often also updated. Along with updating the control panel, the various wiring that connects the drive mechanism and other components to the control panel is also updated.

[0004] Specifically, a related technology has been available in the past in which a guide sleeve extending from an existing wiring passage into the hoistway is cut at the introduction point on the hoistway side, and new protective sleeves are installed in place of the guide sleeve remaining after the cutting, and various new wiring is laid into the hoistway through the wiring passage, thereby allowing various wiring to be passed from the control panel into the hoistway without special drilling work (see, for example, Patent Document 1 below). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2006-347681 [Patent Document 2] Republished Patent No. 2019 / 064400 [Patent Document 3] U.S. Patent No. 05352857 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] However, when renovating an elevator, which requires updating the control panel, the elevator cannot be operated until all of the components that make up the elevator, such as the car, drive mechanism, various wiring, etc., are updated in addition to the control panel. For this reason, conventional technologies, including the above-mentioned Patent Document 1, have had the problem of lengthening the construction period and causing inconvenience to elevator users, resulting in extended periods when the elevator is unavailable.

[0007] In order to solve the problems of the prior art described above, an object of the present invention is to provide an elevator renewal method, replacement construction method, and signal conversion device that enable elevator renewal without causing inconvenience to elevator users. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems and achieve the object, the present invention has the following configuration. The elevator renewal method according to the present invention involves renewing at least one of a plurality of components of an elevator, the elevator renewal method including the steps of: when replacing a control panel that is communicatively connected to the component and controls the component with a new control panel of a different type from the control panel, connecting a signal converter that converts a signal output by the component into a signal that has the same meaning as the signal and can be understood by the new control panel, between the new control panel and the component in a communicative manner; and, after the control panel replacement / signal converter connection step, replacing the control panel of the component. and a component replacement step of replacing at least one of the components with a new component that outputs a signal that can be understood by the new control panel. Furthermore, the elevator renewal method according to the present invention is an elevator renewal method for renewing at least one of the components of an elevator having a plurality of components, and is characterized in that it includes: a control panel replacement / signal conversion device connection step for communicatively connecting, between the new control panel and the components, a signal conversion device that converts a signal output by the new control panel into another signal that has the same meaning as the signal and can be understood by the component, when replacing a control panel that is communicatively connected to the component and controls the component with a new control panel of a different type from the control panel; and a component replacement step for replacing at least one of the components with a new component that is a different component that replaces the component and can understand the signal output by the new control panel, after performing the control panel replacement / signal conversion device connection step. Furthermore, the elevator renewal method of the present invention is characterized in that, in the above invention, the component replacement process connects the new component and the new control panel so that they can communicate with each other without going through the signal conversion device.

[0009] Further, a replacement construction method according to the present invention is a replacement construction method for an elevator having a plurality of components, in which a control panel that is connected to and controls the components is replaced with a new control panel of a type different from the control panel, and construction work for replacing the components is carried out, the replacement construction method comprising a first step of disconnecting the control panel from the components and removing the control panel, and a second step of connecting a signal conversion device to the components, the signal conversion device converting a signal output by the components into a signal that has the same meaning as the signal and can be understood by the new control panel, and a control panel replacement process having a second step of connecting a device to the new control panel and a third step of checking the operation of the connection made in the second step; and a component replacement process having a fourth step of disconnecting at least one of the components from the signal conversion device after the replacement of the control panel in the control panel replacement process is completed, and connecting a new component, which is a component different from the disconnected component and outputs a signal that the new control panel can understand, to the new control panel, and a fifth step of checking the operation of the connection made in the fourth step.

[0010] Further, a replacement construction method according to the present invention is a replacement construction method for an elevator having a plurality of components, in which a control panel that is connected to and controls the components is replaced with a new control panel of a type different from the control panel, and construction work for replacing the components is carried out, the replacement construction method comprising a first step of disconnecting the control panel from the components and removing the control panel, and a second step of connecting a signal conversion device to the components, the signal conversion device converting a signal output by the new control panel into a signal that has the same meaning as the signal and can be understood by the components, and a third step of converting the signal conversion device into a signal that has the same meaning as the signal output by the new control panel and can be understood by the components. a control panel replacement process having a second step of connecting a device to the new control panel and a third step of checking the operation of the connection made in the second step; and a component replacement process having a fourth step of disconnecting at least one of the components from the signal conversion device after the replacement of the control panel in the control panel replacement process is completed, and connecting a new component, which is a component different from the disconnected component and outputs a signal that the new control panel can understand, to the new control panel, and a fifth step of checking the operation of the connection made in the fourth step.

[0011] Further, a replacement construction method according to the present invention is a replacement construction method for an elevator having a plurality of components, in which a control panel that is connected to the components and controls the components is replaced with a new control panel of a different type from the control panel, and construction work is carried out to replace the components, the replacement construction method comprising: a first step of disconnecting the control panel from the components and removing the control panel; a second step of connecting a signal conversion device that converts a signal output by the components into a signal that has the same meaning as the original signal and can be understood by the new control panel, and converts a signal output by the new control panel into a signal that has the same meaning as the original signal and can be understood by the components, to the components, and connecting the signal conversion device to the new control panel; a control panel replacement process having a third step of checking the operation of the connection by the control panel replacement process; a component replacement process having a fourth step of disconnecting at least one of the components from the signal conversion device after the replacement of the control panel by the control panel replacement process is completed, and connecting to the new control panel a new component that is different from the component and outputs a signal that the new control panel can understand; and a fifth step of checking the operation of the connection by the fourth step.

[0012] Furthermore, the replacement construction method according to the present invention is characterized in that, in the above invention, the component is a drive mechanism of the elevator.

[0013] Furthermore, the replacement construction method according to the present invention is characterized in that, in the above invention, the component is a control mechanism for the elevator hall.

[0014] Furthermore, the replacement construction method according to the present invention is characterized in that, in the above invention, the component is a control mechanism for the car.

[0015] Furthermore, the replacement construction method according to the present invention is characterized in that, in the above invention, the component is a sensor mechanism of the elevator.

[0016] Furthermore, the signal conversion device of the present invention is characterized in that it is connected to a plurality of components provided in an elevator after the control panel that is connected to and controls the components has been disconnected and the control panel has been removed, and is also connected to a new control panel of a different type from the control panel, and comprises: an input unit that accepts input of a down signal from the new control panel to the components; a signal conversion unit that converts the down signal into another signal that has the same meaning as the down signal and can be understood by the components; and an output unit that outputs the signal converted by the signal conversion unit to the components.

[0017] Furthermore, the signal conversion device of the present invention is characterized in that it is connected to a plurality of components provided in an elevator after the control panel that is connected to and controls the components has been disconnected and the control panel has been removed, and is also connected to a new control panel of a different type from the control panel, and comprises: an input unit that accepts input of an up signal from the components to the new control panel; a signal conversion unit that converts the up signal into another signal that has the same meaning as the up signal and can be understood by the new control panel; and an output unit that outputs the signal converted by the signal conversion unit to the new control panel.

[0018] Furthermore, the signal conversion device of the present invention is characterized in that it comprises: an input unit that is connected to a plurality of components provided in an elevator after the control panel that is connected to and controls the components has been disconnected and the control panel has been removed, and that is connected to a new control panel of a different type from the control panel, and that receives input of down signals from the new control panel to the components and up signals from the components to the new control panel; a signal conversion unit that converts the down signals into other signals that have the same meaning as the down signals and can be understood by the components, and that converts the up signals into other signals that have the same meaning as the up signals and can be understood by the new control panel; and an output unit that outputs the down signals converted by the signal conversion unit to the components, and outputs the up signals converted by the signal conversion unit to the new control panel.

[0019] In addition, in the signal conversion device according to the present invention, the input section includes a connection terminal for each of the components.

[0020] Further, in the signal conversion device according to the present invention, the output section is Each component is provided with a connection terminal.

[0021] Furthermore, the replacement construction method according to the present invention is a replacement construction method for replacing components of an elevator having a plurality of components, and is characterized in that it includes: a signal conversion device connecting step for connecting, between the new control panel and the components, a signal conversion device that converts a signal output by the component into another signal that has the same meaning as the signal and can be understood by the new control panel, when replacing a control panel that controls the component with a new control panel of a different type from the control panel; and a component replacement step for replacing at least one of the components with a new component that is another component and outputs a signal that can be understood by the new control panel, after performing the signal conversion device connecting step. Furthermore, the replacement construction method according to the present invention is a replacement construction method for replacing components of an elevator having a plurality of components, and is characterized in that it includes: a signal conversion device connecting step for connecting, between the new control panel and the components, a signal conversion device that converts a signal output by the new control panel into another signal that has the same meaning as the signal and can be understood by the components, when replacing a control panel that controls the components with a new control panel of a different type from the control panel; and a component replacement step for replacing at least one of the components with a new component that is another component and can understand the signal output by the new control panel, after performing the signal conversion device connecting step. In addition, the replacement work method of the present invention is characterized in that, in the above invention, the component replacement process connects the new component and the new control panel without going through the signal conversion device. Furthermore, the replacement construction method according to the present invention is characterized in that, in the above invention, the component is a drive mechanism of the elevator. Furthermore, the replacement construction method according to the present invention is characterized in that, in the above invention, the component is a control mechanism for the elevator hall. Furthermore, the replacement construction method according to the present invention is characterized in that, in the above invention, the component is a control mechanism for a car of the elevator. Furthermore, the replacement construction method according to the present invention is characterized in that, in the above invention, the component is a sensor mechanism of the elevator.

[0022] Furthermore, the signal conversion device of the present invention is characterized in that, when a control panel that controls a plurality of components of an elevator is replaced with a new control panel of a different type from the control panel, it is connected between the new control panel and the components, and comprises: an input unit that receives input of a down signal from the new control panel to the components; a signal conversion unit that converts the down signal into another signal that has the same meaning as the down signal and can be understood by the components; and an output unit that outputs the signal converted by the signal conversion unit to the components. Furthermore, the signal conversion device of the present invention is characterized in that, when a control panel that controls multiple components of an elevator is replaced with a new control panel of a different type from the control panel, it is connected between the new control panel and the components, and comprises: an input unit that receives input of an up signal from the components to the new control panel; a signal conversion unit that converts the up signal into another signal that has the same meaning as the up signal and can be understood by the new control panel; and an output unit that outputs the signal converted by the signal conversion unit to the new control panel. In addition, in the signal conversion device according to the present invention, the input section includes a connection terminal for each of the components. In addition, in the signal conversion device according to the present invention, the output section includes a connection terminal for each of the components. Furthermore, in the signal conversion device according to the present invention, the component is a drive mechanism for the elevator. Furthermore, in the signal conversion device according to the present invention, the component is a control mechanism for the elevator hall. In addition, in the signal conversion device according to the present invention, the component is a control mechanism for a car of the elevator. Furthermore, in the signal conversion device according to the present invention, the component is a sensor mechanism of the elevator. [Effects of the Invention]

[0023] The elevator renewal method, replacement construction method, and signal conversion device of the present invention have the effect of enabling elevator renewal to be carried out without causing inconvenience to elevator users. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0024] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of an elevator in a replacement construction method according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing a car and a control panel provided on the car. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of the platform and the control panel provided at the platform. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing the hardware configuration of the signal conversion device. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the signal conversion device. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a flowchart (part 1) showing the processing procedure of the replacement construction method according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7A] FIG. 7A is an explanatory diagram (part 1) showing an overview of the replacement process of the replacement construction method according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7B] FIG. 7B is an explanatory diagram (part 2) showing an outline of the replacement process of the replacement construction method according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7C] FIG. 7C is an explanatory diagram (part 3) showing an overview of the replacement process of the replacement construction method according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7D] FIG. 7D is an explanatory diagram (part 4) showing an outline of the replacement process of the replacement construction method according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a flowchart (part 2) showing the processing procedure of the replacement construction method according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9A]FIG. 9A is an explanatory diagram (part 5) showing an overview of the replacement process of the replacement construction method according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9B] FIG. 9B is an explanatory diagram (part 6) showing an outline of the replacement process of the replacement construction method according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9C] FIG. 9C is an explanatory diagram (part 7) showing an outline of the replacement process of the replacement construction method according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9D] FIG. 9D is an explanatory diagram (part 8) showing an outline of the replacement process of the replacement construction method according to the embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0025] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Preferred embodiments of an elevator renewal method, replacement construction method, and signal conversion device according to the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0026] (Elevator configuration) First, the configuration of an elevator that is the target of a replacement construction method according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described. Fig. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of an elevator in the replacement construction method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] In FIG. 1, an elevator 100 that is the target of the replacement construction method according to the embodiment of the present invention is realized by, for example, a rope-type (traction-type) elevator. The elevator 100 is installed in a building such as a multi-story building.

[0028] The elevator 100 is equipped with a car (passenger car) 101 for carrying people and goods. One car 101 is provided for each elevator 100. The car 101 is provided in a hoistway (not shown) that passes through each floor of the building in the vertical direction, i.e., along the direction in which the car 101 moves.

[0029] The elevator shaft is provided on its side with guide rails (not shown) that guide the elevator position of the car 101. The elevator shaft is also provided with a shock absorber 102 at its bottom that absorbs the impact if the car 101 falls and hits the bottom surface. The shock absorber 102 may be a spring-type shock absorber 102 that absorbs the impact by utilizing the elastic force of a spring, or an oil-filled shock absorber 102 that absorbs the impact by utilizing hydraulic resistance. The shock absorber 102 may also be provided on the ceiling surface of the elevator shaft.

[0030] The cage 101 is connected to one end of a rope 103. The rope 103 is hung in a bucket-like manner on a pulley (not shown) and a traction machine 104, and the other end of the rope is connected to a counterweight 105. Specifically, the rope 103 can be realized by, for example, a steel wire.

[0031] The hoisting machine 104 in the rope-type elevator 100 is installed, for example, in a machine room provided at the top of the elevator 100. The hoisting machine 104 can be installed at the top of the elevator 100 regardless of whether or not there is a machine room. Alternatively, if the elevator 100 is a type without a machine room, the hoisting machine 104 may be installed at the bottom of the elevator 100.

[0032] The hoisting machine 104 is controlled using, for example, an inverter, and is driven and controlled by a control panel 106 so as to stop rotation at the floor where the car 101 is to be stopped. In the rope-type elevator 100, the car 101 is raised and lowered by utilizing the frictional force (traction) between the rope 103 and the pulley, which is generated by driving the hoisting machine 104. The hoisting machine 104 is driven and controlled by a control panel 106 provided in the elevator 100.

[0033] The hoisting machine 104 is equipped with an encoder (not shown), and the control panel 106 can determine the rotation speed and rotation position of the hoisting machine 104 based on an output signal from the encoder. The encoder may be, for example, an absolute encoder or an incremental encoder.

[0034] The elevator 100 also includes an electromagnetic brake 107, a speed governor (governor machine) 108, a limit switch 109, etc. The electromagnetic brake 107 includes a coil, and is driven and controlled by a control panel 106 to stop the rotation of the hoisting machine 104 by utilizing an electromagnetic force generated by energizing the coil. The electromagnetic brake 107 can maintain a state in which the rotation of the hoisting machine 104 has been stopped.

[0035] The electromagnetic brake 107 stops the rotation of the hoisting machine 104 when the supply of power is stopped due to a power outage or the like. Specifically, the electromagnetic brake 107 may be, for example, a non-excitation operated electromagnetic brake 107 that operates by the force of a spring to stop the rotation of the hoisting machine 104 when the power supply to the coil is cut off due to a power outage or the like.

[0036] The speed governor 108 detects an excess speed of the car 101. The speed governor 108 is a remote control including, for example, a governor rope 108a, a governor pulley 108b, an oscillating weight (not shown), and the like. This can be achieved by a governor 108. In such a governor 108, the governor rope 108a is linked to the movement of the car 101. The governor pulley 108b rotates in conjunction with the movement of the governor rope 108a.

[0037] The oscillating weight operates in accordance with the rotational speed of the governor pulley 108b, i.e., the magnitude of the centrifugal force caused by the rotation of the governor pulley 108b. Specifically, the oscillating weight operates to open toward the outer periphery of the governor pulley 108b when the rotational speed of the governor pulley 108b is high, and operates to close toward the inner periphery of the governor pulley 108b when the rotational speed of the governor pulley 108b is low.

[0038] The limit switch 109 is equipped with a switch lever (not shown) that switches between supplying and cutting off power to the hoisting machine 104. The switch lever is normally positioned at a position that supplies power to the hoisting machine 104, and when urged by the rotor of the governor 108, it is displaced to a position that cuts off the supply of power to the hoisting machine 104.

[0039] The rotating weight of the speed governor 108 biases the switch lever so that, when the lifting speed of the car 101 exceeds a certain speed relative to the rated speed, the switch lever is displaced to a position that cuts off the supply of power to the hoisting machine 104. This stops the operation of the hoisting machine 104 and stops the car 101 when the car 101 exceeds the speed limit.

[0040] Furthermore, the elevator 100 may be equipped with an emergency stop device. The emergency stop device forcibly stops the operation of the car 101 when the operation of the car 101 differs from the operation of the governor rope 108a, i.e., when the car 101 is operating even though the governor rope 108a has stopped. The emergency stop device can be easily realized using various known technologies, so a description thereof will be omitted.

[0041] The car 101 is equipped with a door 101a. The car 101 is also equipped with a motor (not shown) that opens and closes the door 101a, a door opening / closing sensor (not shown) that detects the open / closed state of the door 101a, and an operation panel 101b. The motor that opens and closes the door 101a is driven and controlled by a control panel 106, causing the door 101a to open and close.

[0042] The output of the door open / close sensor changes depending on whether the door 101a or the door 110a is open or closed, depending on the state of the safety shoe located between the door 101a and the door 110a. The door open / close sensor can be realized by, for example, a microswitch or a photoelectric sensor. The door open / close sensor is connected to the control panel 106 via a wire, and the signal output from the door open / close sensor is input to the control panel 106 via the wire.

[0043] Doors 110a are provided at positions (landings) 110 in the elevator shaft that correspond to each floor. The doors 110a provided at the landings 110 are locked by a device called an interlock (not shown). The interlock engages with the opening / closing mechanism of the door 101a of the car 101 to release the lock only when the motor provided in the car 101 is driven after the elevator 100 has arrived at a stopping floor. This allows only the door 110a provided at the landing 110 on the floor where the car 101 is located to be opened and closed in conjunction with each other.

[0044] At each landing 110, an operation panel 111 is installed, which includes a landing call button 111a, a display 111b that displays the floor where the car 101 is located, etc. Each operation panel 111 includes a control board 111c for the operation panel 111, and is connected to the control panel 106 via the control board 111c.

[0045] (Configuration of the car 101 and the operation panel 101b provided on the car 101) Next, a description will be given of the configuration of the car 101 and the operation panel 101b provided on the car 101. Fig. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing the car 101 and the operation panel 101b provided on the car 101.

[0046] In Fig. 2, the control panel 101b is provided on the wall surface inside the car 101, near the door 101a of the car 101. The control panel 101b is equipped with operation buttons 201 including a destination floor button for specifying the destination floor of the car 101, and a door opening / closing button for opening and closing the door 101a. The control panel 101b also has a display 202 that displays the floor on which the car 101 is located, etc.

[0047] The operation panel 101b provided on the car 101 includes a control board for the operation panel 101b, and is connected to the control panel 106 via the control board for the operation panel 101b. Every time the control board for the operation panel 101b receives an input operation on the operation button 201 by a user of the elevator 100 or the like, it generates a call signal corresponding to the input operation and outputs the generated call signal to the control panel 106.

[0048] Furthermore, the control board for operation panel 101b outputs a signal according to the output of a door open / close sensor to control panel 106. Furthermore, the control board for operation panel 101b controls display 202 according to the signal output from control panel 106 to display the floor on which car 101 is located. The control board for operation panel 101b may also perform control to switch on / off lights 203 provided on car 101, drive control of monitoring camera 204, etc.

[0049] The car 101 is also provided with an interphone terminal device 205. The interphone terminal device 205 is equipped with a call button, a microphone, and a speaker (all of which are omitted from the illustration). The microphone and speaker in the interphone terminal device 205 may be integrally built into the operation panel 101b. The interphone terminal device 205 is connected to the control panel 106, as is the control board for the operation panel 101b. It is connected to the control panel 106.

[0050] (Configuration of the platform 110 and the operation panel 111 provided at the platform 110) Next, a description will be given of the configuration of the platform 110 and the operation panel 111 provided at the platform 110. Fig. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of the platform 110 and the operation panel 111 provided at the platform 110.

[0051] The hall call buttons 111a provided on each control panel 111 are provided, for example, on the wall surface 301 near the door 110a. The displays 111b that display the floor on which the car 101 is located are provided, for example, on the wall surface 302 above the door 110a. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the displays 111b display the floor on which the car 101 is located as well as floors at which the car 101 can stop. The display 111b may display only the floor on which the car 101 is located. The elevator 100 does not have to be provided with the display 111b.

[0052] Like the control board for the operation panel 101b, the control board 111c generates a call signal in response to an input operation on the hall call button 111a by a user of the elevator 100 or the like, and outputs the generated call signal to the control panel 106.

[0053] In this embodiment, the components of the present invention can be realized by, for example, the components that output signals to the control panel 106, so-called "up signals," among the components of the elevator 100. Also, in this embodiment, the components of the elevator 100 can be realized by, for example, the components that output signals from the CPU of the control panel 106, so-called "up signals." The components according to the present invention can be realized by the components that operate in accordance with the "downstream signal."

[0054] Specifically, the components can be realized by, for example, the drive mechanism of the elevator 100. More specifically, the drive mechanism of the elevator 100 can be realized by, for example, a hoist 104, an electromagnetic brake 107, a motor for opening and closing the door 101a, and the like. The drive mechanism of the elevator 100 operates in accordance with a down signal output from a control panel 106. The drive mechanism of the elevator 100 may also output an up signal to the control panel 106.

[0055] Furthermore, the component can be realized, for example, by a control mechanism of the hall 110 of the elevator 100. Specifically, the control mechanism of the hall 110 of the elevator 100 can be realized, for example, by an operation panel 111 (control board 111c) provided in each hall 110. Furthermore, the component can be realized by a control mechanism of the car 101 of the elevator 100. Specifically, the control mechanism of the car 101 of the elevator 100 can be realized, for example, by an operation panel 101b provided in the car 101.

[0056] Furthermore, the components can be realized, for example, by a sensor mechanism of the elevator 100. Specifically, the sensor mechanism of the elevator 100 can be realized, for example, by various sensors such as a limit switch 109 and a door open / close sensor. These various sensors output an up signal to the control panel 106.

[0057] (Configuration of control panel 106) Next, the configuration of the control panel 106 will be described. The control panel 106 includes an input terminal, an output terminal, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a memory, and a communication I / F (Interface) (all of which are not shown). Each unit included in the control panel 106 is connected to another by a bus (not shown).

[0058] The input terminal of the control panel 106 is a hardware interface that connects the multiple components of the elevator 100 to the CPU of the control panel 106, and receives input of signals output from each component and outputs the received input signal to the CPU of the control panel 106. The input terminal of the control panel 106 receives, for example, input of an up signal that each component of the elevator 100 outputs to the control panel 106.

[0059] Specifically, the input terminals of the control panel 106 accept input of, for example, a control board for the operation panel 101b or a call signal output from the control board for the operation panel 101b. The input terminals of the control panel 106 also accept input of, for example, a signal output from an encoder. The input terminals of the control panel 106 also accept input of signals output from various sensors, such as a limit switch 109, a door open / close sensor, and a brake sensor whose output changes in response to the operation of the electromagnetic brake 107. The brake sensor can be realized by, for example, a microswitch or a photoelectric sensor.

[0060] The output terminal of the control panel 106 is a hardware interface that connects the multiple components of the elevator 100 with the CPU of the control panel 106, and outputs the down signal output from the CPU of the control panel 106 to the corresponding component. Specifically, the output terminal of the control panel 106 outputs, for example, the down control signal generated by the CPU of the control panel 106 to the hoist 104, the electromagnetic brake 107, and a motor that opens and closes the door 101a of the car 101 and the door 110a of the hall 110.

[0061] The CPU of the control panel 106 controls the multiple components of the elevator 100, The control panel 106 is responsible for the overall control of the elevator 100. The memory of the control panel 106 stores programs, data, etc. used to control the multiple components of the elevator 100. The CPU of the control panel 106 performs arithmetic processing using the programs, data, etc. stored in the memory, based on, for example, an up signal input via an input terminal. The CPU of the control panel 106 also outputs, for example, a signal based on the result of the arithmetic processing to the relevant component via an output terminal.

[0062] Specifically, the CPU of the control panel 106 generates control down signals for each component, such as the hoist 104, the electromagnetic brake 107, and the motors that open and close the doors 101a and 105a, based on an up signal (call signal) output from a control board for the operation panel 101b, and outputs the generated down control signals to each of the corresponding components. The CPU of the control panel 106 also determines whether each component has operated normally based on the up signals output from each component, such as the hoist 104 (encoder), the brake sensor, and the door opening / closing sensor. The CPU of the control panel 106 also outputs control down signals, including a floor signal indicating the floor on which the car 101 is located, to the control board for the operation panel 101b, and causes the operation panel 101b to display the floor on which the car 101 is located, the direction of movement (whether it is ascending or descending), etc.

[0063] The communication I / F is connected to a management server computer via a network such as the Internet (both are not shown). The management server computer is installed in a remote location different from the location where the elevator 100 to be monitored is installed. The management server computer can be installed, for example, in a maintenance management company that is responsible for maintaining and managing the elevator 100.

[0064] The communication I / F transmits to the management server computer an alarm signal output from the CPU of the control panel 106. The alarm signal is output from the CPU of the control panel 106, for example, when a fault is detected in the elevator 100 or when the operation mode of the elevator 100 changes.

[0065] The communication I / F also receives various instructions, such as instructions to execute diagnostic operations, sent from the management server computer, and outputs them to the CPU of the control panel 106. The diagnostic operations are realized by having the control panel 106 output signals to each part of the elevator 100 to operate the parts in a predetermined order, and then having the control panel 106 output signals indicating whether the parts operated normally or not in accordance with the output signals. The management server computer 130 outputs instructions to execute diagnostic operations, for example, periodically (for example, at the end of each month).

[0066] By connecting the control panel 106 and the management server computer via a communication I / F over the Internet rather than a public voice network such as a telephone line, it is possible to avoid delays in understanding the status of the elevator 100 due to telephone line congestion in emergencies such as natural disasters such as earthquakes. This makes it possible to take prompt action if a malfunction occurs in the operation of the elevator 100 when the elevator 100 is remotely monitored using the management server computer.

[0067] The control panel 106 may further be connected to a public voice network via a communication I / F. The public voice network includes a fixed telephone network (public switched telephone network) and a mobile phone network. The public voice network is made up of multiple exchanges (not shown), such as local line exchanges that accommodate telephone lines, transit exchanges that bundle local line exchanges, and gateway exchanges that connect to telephone networks of other carriers. The public voice network is a well-known technology, so a description thereof will be omitted.

[0068] By connecting the control panel 106 to a public voice network via a communication I / F, voice communication between the interphone terminal device 205 and the management center can be realized. In this case, specifically, the communication I / F can be realized by, for example, a PHS (Personal Handy-phone System) board.

[0069] In this case, the control panel 106 may use a PHS board for data communication. That is, the PHS board may be used for both voice communication and data communication. Since the elevator 100 is installed in a fixed location, communication using PHS ensures communication quality and reduces communication costs. This makes it possible to inexpensively achieve both data communication between the control panel 106 and the management server computer and voice communication between the intercom terminal device 205 and the management center.

[0070] (Configuration of signal conversion device) Next, the configuration of the signal conversion device will be described. Fig. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing the hardware configuration of the signal conversion device. When the control panel 106 is replaced with a new control panel 106' of a different type from the control panel 106, the signal conversion device is connected between the new control panel 106' and the components (see Fig. 6 and Figs. 7A to 7D).

[0071] 4, signal conversion device 400 includes input terminal 401, CPU 402, memory 403, and output terminal 404. Each of units 401 to 404 included in signal conversion device 400 is connected to each other via bus 405.

[0072] The input terminal 401 is a connection terminal (hardware interface) that connects the signal conversion device 400 with the multiple components and new control panel 106' that the elevator 100 has, and receives input signals output from each component and new control panel 106', and outputs the received input signals to the CPU 402. An input terminal 401 is provided for each component. Also, an input terminal 401 is provided corresponding to the new control panel 106'.

[0073] Specifically, the input terminal 401 receives, for example, an input of a signal output from each component of the elevator 100 to the control panel 106, that is, a so-called "up signal." Also, specifically, the input terminal 401 receives, for example, an input of a signal output from the new control panel 106' to each component of the elevator 100, that is, a so-called "down signal."

[0074] The CPU 402 controls each unit included in the signal conversion device 400 and is responsible for overall control of the signal conversion device 400. The memory 403 stores programs, data, etc. used for signal processing. Specifically, the memory 403 stores, for example, programs, data, etc. related to signal conversion processing that converts an upstream signal into another signal that can be understood by the new control panel 106′.

[0075] Specifically, the memory 403 stores, for example, programs and data related to signal conversion processing for converting downstream signals into other signals that can be understood by the respective components. The CPU 402 performs signal conversion processing on the upstream and downstream signals input via the input terminal 401 using the programs and data stored in the memory 403.

[0076] The output terminal 404 is a connection terminal (hardware interface) that connects the signal conversion device 400 with the multiple components and new control panel 106' that the elevator 100 has, and outputs the signal output from the CPU 402 to the corresponding component or new control panel 106'. An output terminal 404 is provided for each component. Also, an output terminal 404 is provided corresponding to the new control panel 106'.

[0077] Specifically, the output terminal 404 outputs, to each corresponding component, a downstream signal output by the new control panel 106' that has undergone signal conversion processing by the CPU 402. Also, specifically, the output terminal 404 outputs, to the new control panel 106', an upstream signal output by each component that has undergone signal conversion processing by the CPU 402.

[0078] (Functional Configuration of Signal Conversion Device 400) Next, a description will be given of the functional configuration of signal conversion device 400. Fig. 5 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of signal conversion device 400. In Fig. 5, each function of signal conversion device 400 is realized by an input unit 501 on the component side, an input unit 502 on the new control panel 106' side, a signal conversion unit 503, an output unit 504 on the new control panel 106' side, and an output unit 505 on the component side.

[0079] The input unit 501 on the component side accepts input of an up signal that each component of the elevator 100 outputs to the control panel 106. The input unit 501 on the component side can be realized, for example, by a plurality of input terminals 401 (connection terminals) provided for each component. The input unit 502 on the new control panel 106' accepts input of a down signal that the new control panel 106' outputs to each component of the elevator 100. The input unit 502 on the new control panel 106' can be realized, for example, by an input terminal 401 (connection terminal) provided corresponding to the new control panel 106'.

[0080] The signal conversion unit 503 converts the upstream signal received by the input unit 501 on the component side into another signal that has the same meaning as the upstream signal and can be understood by the new control panel 106'. The signal conversion unit 503 also converts the downstream signal received by the input unit 502 on the new control panel 106' into another signal that has the same meaning as the downstream signal and can be understood by each component to which the downstream signal is output.

[0081] The output unit 504 on the new control panel 106' side outputs to the new control panel 106' the upstream signal that has been converted by the signal conversion unit 503 into another signal that the new control panel 106' can understand. The output unit 504 on the new control panel 106' side can be realized by an output terminal 404 (connection terminal) provided corresponding to the new control panel 106'. The output unit 505 on the component side outputs to each corresponding component the downstream signal that has been converted by the signal conversion unit 503 into another signal that each component can understand. The output unit 505 on the component side can be realized by a plurality of output terminals 404 (connection terminals) provided for each component.

[0082] (Control panel 106 replacement procedure) Next, the processing procedure of the replacement construction method according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. Fig. 6 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of the replacement construction method according to the embodiment of the present invention. Figs. 7A to 7D are explanatory diagrams showing an overview of the replacement process of the replacement construction method according to the embodiment of the present invention. The replacement procedure of the control panel 106 using the signal conversion device 400 will be described. Fig. 6 shows the replacement procedure of the control panel 106 using the signal conversion device 400. Figs. 7A to 7D show an overview of the replacement process of the control panel 106 using the signal conversion device 400. Fig. 6 and Figs. 7A to 7D show the replacement procedure when replacing the old control panel 106 with a new control panel 106'.

[0083] The new control panel 106' accepts signal inputs to the new control panel 106' and outputs signals based on the input signals. The new control panel 106' operates according to a program written in a programming language different from the program used by the control panel 106. The new control panel 106' understands machine language, that is, electrical signals that can be expressed in two values, "0" and "1," and which are different from the signals that the control panel 106 understands.

[0084] Furthermore, the new control panel 106' outputs signals that have the same meaning as the signals output by the control panel 106 to the plurality of components (components A to D) 700 controlled by the control panel 106, but are different from the signals that can be understood by the components. The new control panel 106' may output signals that can be understood by the components 700, similar to the signals output by the control panel 106, to the plurality of components 700 controlled by the control panel 106.

[0085] In FIG. 6, when replacing the control panel 106 using the signal conversion device 400, first, the old control panel 106 is disconnected from each component 700 as shown in FIG. 7A, and the old control panel 106 is removed as shown in FIG. 7B (step S601).

[0086] Next, as shown in Fig. 7C, the signal conversion device 400 is connected to the component 700 from which the old control panel 106 has been removed (step S602). The signal conversion device 400 can be attached, for example, to the wall of the elevator shaft. Then, as shown in Fig. 7D, the new control panel 106' is connected to the signal conversion device 400 connected to the component 700 in step S602 (step S603). The new control panel 106' is installed, for example, near the control panel 106.

[0087] Thereafter, an operation check is performed (step S604) to determine whether the elevator 100 is operating normally (step S605). In step S604, for example, the operation of the new control panel 106' is checked based on an up signal input to the new control panel 106' from each component 700 via the signal conversion device 400. Specifically, for example, the destination floor button on the operation panel 101b of the car 101 is operated to check whether the car 101 will ascend or descend to the specified floor.

[0088] Also, in step S604, for example, the operation of each component 700 in accordance with the down signal input from the new control panel 106' via the signal conversion device 400 is confirmed. Specifically, for example, the operation panel 111 provided at the landing 110 is operated, a call is generated to the relevant floor in accordance with the operation, and it is confirmed whether the car 101 moves to that floor.

[0089] In step S605, based on the confirmation results in step S604, it is determined whether the elevator 100 is operating normally, based on the results of whether the new control panel 106' operates based on the up signals input from each component 700 to the new control panel 106' via the signal conversion device 400, whether all component parts 700 have operated, and whether the elevator 100 operated in accordance with the down signals input from the new control panel 106' via the signal conversion device 400.

[0090] In step S605, if the elevator 100 operates normally (step S605: Yes), the replacement work of the control panel 106 is completed. On the other hand, in step S605, if the elevator 100 does not operate normally (step S605: No), the connection is checked (step S606).

[0091] In step S606, for example, the connection state between the new control panel 106' and the component 700 that did not operate in accordance with the signal output from the new control panel 106' is checked. Then, after adjusting the connection state between the relevant component 700 and the new control panel 106', the process is repeated until the elevator 100 operates normally, and it is determined whether the elevator 100 operates normally (step S605).

[0092] (Procedure for replacing component 700) Next, the processing procedure of the replacement construction method according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. Fig. 8 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of the replacement construction method according to the embodiment of the present invention. 9A to 9D are explanatory diagrams showing an outline of the replacement process of the replacement construction method according to the embodiment of the present invention. The replacement procedure of the component 700 using the signal conversion device 400 will be described. FIG. 8 shows the replacement procedure of the component 700. FIGS. 9A to 9D show an outline of the replacement process of the component 700. FIG. 8 and FIGS. 9A to 9D show the replacement procedure when replacing the component (old component) 700 controlled by the new control panel 106′ replaced as described above via the signal conversion device 400 with the new component 700′.

[0093] 8, when replacing component 700, first, as shown in Fig. 9A, the signal conversion device 400 is disconnected from the old component 700 (step S801), and then, as shown in Fig. 9B, a new component 700' that replaces the removed old component 700 is connected to the new control panel 106' (step S802). This allows the old component 700 to be replaced with the new component 700'.

[0094] When replacing multiple old components 700 with new components 700', in step S802, as shown in Figure 9C, for each component 700 to be replaced, the corresponding old component 700 is removed from the signal conversion device 400, and a new component 700' that replaces the removed old component 700 is connected to the new control panel 106'.

[0095] When all of the old components 700 are replaced with new components 700', as shown in Figure 9D, all of the new components 700' are directly connected to the new control panel 106', and signals are directly exchanged between the new control panel 106' and the new components 700'. As a result, after all of the old components 700 have been replaced with new components 700', the signal conversion device 400 may be removed. The removed signal conversion device 400 can be reused for the renovation of another elevator 100.

[0096] Next, the operation of the elevator 100 in which the old component 700 has been replaced with the new component 700' is checked (step S803), and it is determined whether the elevator 100 operates normally (step S804). In step S803, for example, a signal is output from the new control panel 106' to each component 700, and it is confirmed whether each component 700 operates in accordance with the output signal. Alternatively, in step S803, only the operation of the replaced new component 700' may be checked.

[0097] Also, in step S803, for example, it is confirmed whether or not the new control panel 106' operates based on the signals output from each component 700. Specifically, for example, the destination floor button on the operation panel 101b of the car 101 is operated to confirm whether or not the car 101 will ascend or descend to the specified floor.

[0098] In step S805, based on the confirmation results in step S804, it is determined whether the elevator 100 is operating normally based on whether all components 700 have operated in accordance with the signals output from the new control panel 106'.

[0099] In step S805, if the elevator 100 operates normally (step S804: Yes), the replacement work of replacing the component 700 with the new component 700' is completed. On the other hand, in step S804, if the elevator 100 does not operate normally (step S804: No), a connection check is performed (step S805).

[0100] In step S805, for example, the connection state between the component 700 that did not operate according to the signal output from the new control panel 106' and the new control panel 106' is checked. Then, after adjusting the connection state between the relevant component 700 and the new control panel 106', the elevator 10 0 is operated normally, and it is determined whether the elevator 100 is operating normally (step S805).

[0101] In this way, when replacing a component 700 with a new component 700', by connecting a signal conversion device 400 between each component 700 and the new control panel 106', the new control panel 106' can understand the signals output by the component 700, even when the control panel 106 is replaced with a new control panel 106' that operates according to a program written in a programming language different from the program used by the control panel 106.

[0102] Furthermore, even when the control panel 106 is replaced with a new control panel 106' that operates according to a program written in a programming language different from the program used by the control panel 106, the component 700 can understand the signals output by the new control panel 106' and operate accurately.

[0103] Maintenance management of the elevator 100 is realized, for example, by periodically checking the operation history of the elevator 100 that is subject to maintenance management based on the results of communication between the control panel 106 of the elevator 100 and an inspection terminal, and by replacing parts based on the checked operation history. Maintenance management of the elevator 100 is also realized, for example, by periodically communicating between the control panel 106 and a management server computer, executing diagnostic operations, and replacing parts based on the results of the diagnostic operations.

[0104] In the maintenance and management of such an elevator 100, for example, in the conventional elevator 100 in which each component 700 is controlled by a dedicated ASIC, if it is desired to replace some of the components 700 with new components 700', it is assumed that the new components 700' cannot be controlled by the existing ASIC. In such a situation, the new components 700' are limited to those that can be controlled by the existing ASIC.

[0105] More specifically, for example, in an elevator 100 in which each component 700 is controlled by a dedicated ASIC, when the hoist is to be replaced, even if there is another hoist that consumes less power and has a higher output than the existing component (hoist) 700, the existing hoist cannot be replaced with another hoist due to the limitations imposed by the existing ASIC. For this reason, the person in charge of managing the elevator 100 is forced to choose between replacing the hoist with one that can be controlled by the existing ASIC or renovating the existing ASIC, which limits the degree of freedom in maintenance management for the person in charge of managing the elevator 100.

[0106] Additionally, the current situation is that communication between the control panel 106 and the inspection terminal, or communication between the control panel 106 and the management server computer, which are involved in the maintenance and management of the elevator 100, is often carried out using signals unique to each manufacturer of the elevator 100. This makes it difficult for an independent maintenance service company for the elevator 100, independent of the manufacturer or the elevator management company affiliated with the manufacturer (hereinafter referred to as "manufacturer, etc." as appropriate), to carry out maintenance and management.

[0107] In the current situation where communication is carried out using signals unique to each manufacturer when maintaining and managing elevator 100, the new component 700' that replaces component 700 must be selected within the range specified by the manufacturer of each elevator 100, which means that the person responsible for managing elevator 100 has little freedom in maintenance and management.

[0108] In addition, in the current situation where communication is performed using a signal unique to each manufacturer, it is easy for the manufacturer of each elevator 100 to uniquely set the cost required for maintenance management of the elevator 100 (maintenance management fee), and the maintenance fee borne by the person in charge of management of the elevator 100 is also difficult to set. It was difficult to reduce maintenance and management costs.

[0109] The safety and sense of security of users of the elevator 100 tends to increase the more frequently the elevator 100 is maintained and inspected. On the other hand, if the frequency of maintenance and inspection is limited to the minimum level specified in the guidelines of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism or close to that level in order to reduce maintenance and management costs in the above-mentioned situation, it becomes difficult to achieve both reduction in maintenance and management costs and improvement in the safety of users of the elevator 100.

[0110] In contrast to this, according to the replacement work method of this embodiment, as described above, before replacing control panel 106 with new control panel 106', which is performed prior to replacing component 700 with new component 700', by connecting signal conversion device 400 between new control panel 106' and component 700, it is possible to operate elevator 100 even when component 700 and new component 700' coexist. This allows the replacement work from component 700 to new component 700' to be performed separately for each component 700, and elevator 100 can be operated between each replacement work.

[0111] In the above-described embodiment, the elevator 100 is described as controlling each component 700 by executing various processes such as signal conversion processing using a CPU, but the control of the elevator 100 is not limited to being realized using a CPU. Instead of a CPU, the elevator 100 may be controlled using, for example, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), which is an integrated circuit for a specific application that integrates multiple circuits, or a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), which is an integrated circuit whose configuration can be arbitrarily set after manufacture.

[0112] In the above embodiment, the rope-type elevator 100 has been described, but the elevator 100 according to the present invention is not limited to the rope-type elevator 100. Instead of or in addition to the rope-type elevator 100, a hydraulic elevator 100 may be used, for example.

[0113] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, a replacement construction method was described for replacing a control panel 106 equipped with a communication function with a new control panel 106'. However, the control panel 106 is not limited to one equipped with a communication function. For example, the replacement construction method according to the present invention can also be applied to a case where a control panel 106 that did not have a communication function because remote monitoring was not anticipated at the time of installation and to which a separate communication device was connected after installation is replaced with a new control panel 106'. In this case, for example, the control panel 106 and the communication device are replaced with the new control panel 106'.

[0114] As described above, the replacement construction method of the embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that, when replacing the control panel 106 with a new control panel 106', a signal conversion device 400 is connected between the new control panel 106' and the component unit 700. The signal conversion device 400 converts the signal output by the component unit 700 into another signal that has the same meaning as the signal and can be understood by the new control panel 106', and then at least one of the component units 700 is replaced with a new component unit 700' that outputs a signal that can be understood by the new control panel 106'.

[0115] According to the replacement construction method of the embodiment of the present invention, by connecting the signal conversion device 400 between the new control panel 106' and the component 700 before replacing the control panel 106 with the new control panel 106', the signal output by the component 700 can be converted by the signal conversion device 400 into another signal that can be understood by the new control panel 106', and can be input to the new control panel 106'. As a result, even if the component 700 and the new component 700' coexist, the new control panel 106' can be used. 06' can be operated.

[0116] Furthermore, the replacement construction method of the embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that, when replacing the control panel 106 with a new control panel 106', a signal conversion device 400 is connected between the new control panel 106' and the component unit 700. The signal conversion device 400 converts the signal output by the new control panel 106' into another signal that has the same meaning as the signal and can be understood by the component unit 700, and then at least one of the component units 700 is replaced with a new component unit 700' that can understand the signal output by the new control panel 106'.

[0117] According to the replacement construction method of the embodiment of the present invention, by connecting the signal conversion device 400 between the new control panel 106' and the component 700 before replacing the control panel 106 with the new control panel 106', the signal output by the new control panel 106' can be converted by the signal conversion device 400 into another signal that can be understood by the component 700 and input to the component 700. This allows the component 700 to be controlled by the new control panel 106', and the elevator 100 can be operated even when the component 700 and the new component 700' coexist.

[0118] This allows replacement of component 700 with new component 700' to be carried out multiple times (over multiple days) during times when elevator 100 is less frequently used, such as at night. Therefore, even if the renovation work takes several days from start to completion, the elevator can be renovated without causing inconvenience to elevator users.

[0119] Furthermore, according to the replacement construction method of the embodiment of the present invention, elevator 100 can be operated even when component 700 and new component 700' coexist, i.e., when only a portion of component 700 has been replaced with new component 700'. As a result, even after control panel 106 has been replaced with new control panel 106', the component 700 that is still usable can continue to be used without replacement.

[0120] In this way, selectively replacing only the components 700 that need to be updated makes it easier to plan and manage the maintenance costs required for maintaining the elevator 100. This also makes it possible to increase the frequency of replacement of specific components 700, such as components 700 related to safety, thereby improving the safety of users of the elevator 100.

[0121] Furthermore, according to the replacement construction method of the embodiment of the present invention, elevator renewal can be carried out in a distributed manner without being influenced by the compatibility between the control panel 106 and the new component 700', or between the new control panel 106' and the component 700. This allows an independent maintenance management company to perform maintenance management equivalent to that of the manufacturer, without being influenced by the manufacturer of the elevator 100, without causing inconvenience to elevator users.

[0122] Furthermore, the person responsible for managing the elevator 100 can have a company selected from multiple companies, such as an independent maintenance company or the manufacturer, perform maintenance and management of the elevator 100 without being limited to the manufacturer, etc., thereby ensuring the safety of the elevator 100. In this way, by enabling an independent maintenance and management company to perform maintenance and management equivalent to that performed by the manufacturer, etc., the safety of the elevator 100 can be ensured, and the expenses (maintenance and management costs) required to perform equivalent maintenance and management can be reduced compared to when the manufacturer, etc., monopolizes the maintenance and management of the elevator 100.

[0123] And by reducing maintenance costs, when manufacturers and others perform maintenance management, It is possible to increase the frequency of inspections of the operating condition of the elevator 100 at the same maintenance and management cost as that of the conventional method, thereby further improving the safety of users of the elevator 100. In this way, according to the replacement construction method of this embodiment, it is possible to achieve both a reduction in maintenance and management costs and an improvement in the safety of users of the elevator 100.

[0124] The replacement construction method according to the embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that the new component 700 ′ and the new control panel 106 ′ are connected without the signal conversion device 400 .

[0125] According to the replacement construction method of the embodiment of the present invention, by connecting the new component 700' and the new control panel 106' without using the signal conversion device 400, the signal transmission path between the new component 700' and the new control panel 106' can be simplified and signal degradation can be suppressed. By suppressing signal degradation in this way, even if the new component 700' outputs an analog signal, it is possible to prevent the new control board, which performs digital signal processing, from misinterpreting the signal and reliably prevent interference with the operation of the elevator 100. Furthermore, by suppressing signal degradation, it is possible to reliably control the new component 700', and reliably prevent interference with the operation of the elevator 100.

[0126] Furthermore, by connecting the new component 700′ to the new component 700′ without using the signal conversion device 400, it is possible to remove the control panel 106 after replacing all the components 700 with the new component 700′. This allows for effective use of limited space such as the elevator shaft and the machine room.

[0127] Furthermore, the replacement construction method of the embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that the component 700 is a drive mechanism of the elevator 100, a control mechanism of the elevator 100's hall 110, a control mechanism of the elevator 100's car 101, or a sensor mechanism of the elevator 100.

[0128] According to the replacement construction method of the embodiment of the present invention, in an elevator 100 equipped with a component 700 that inputs and outputs signals to and from a control panel 106, even if the control panel 106 is replaced with a new control panel 106', it is possible to prevent interference with the operation of the elevator 100 due to the replacement of the control panel 106 with the new control panel 106'. Furthermore, according to the replacement construction method of the embodiment of the present invention, even if, after the control panel 106 is replaced with the new control panel 106', another component 700 that operates in accordance with signals output from the new control panel 106' and a component 700 that operates in accordance with signals output from the control panel 106 coexist, it is possible to prevent interference with the operation of the elevator 100 due to the replacement of the control panel 106 with the new control panel 106'.

[0129] As described above, according to the replacement construction method of the embodiment of the present invention, the elevator 100 can be renewed without interfering with the operation of the elevator 100.

[0130] Furthermore, the signal conversion device 400 of an embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that, when the control panel 106 that controls the multiple component parts 700 equipped in the elevator 100 is replaced with a new control panel 106' of a different type from the control panel 106, it is connected between the new control panel 106' and the component parts 700, and is equipped with an input unit that accepts input of a down signal from the new control panel 106' to the component parts 700, a signal conversion unit 503 that converts the down signal into another signal that has the same meaning as the down signal and can be understood by the component parts 700, and an output unit that outputs the signal converted by the signal conversion unit 503 to the component parts 700.

[0131] According to the signal conversion device 400 of the embodiment of the present invention, when the control panel 106 is replaced with a new control panel 106', by being connected between the new control panel 106' and the component unit 700, it is possible to convert the down signal output from the new control panel 106' into another signal that has the same meaning as the down signal and can be understood by the component unit 700, and output the converted signal to the component unit 700. This makes it possible to prevent the operation of the elevator 100 from being affected by replacing the control panel 106 with the new control panel 106'.

[0132] As described above, according to the replacement construction method of the embodiment of the present invention, the elevator 100 can be renewed without interfering with the operation of the elevator 100.

[0133] Furthermore, the signal conversion device 400 of an embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that, when the control panel 106 that controls the multiple components 700 equipped in the elevator 100 is replaced with a new control panel 106' of a different type from the control panel 106, it is connected between the new control panel 106' and the components 700, and is equipped with an input unit that receives an input of an up signal from the components 700 to the new control panel 106', a signal conversion unit 503 that converts the up signal into another signal that has the same meaning as the up signal and can be understood by the new control panel 106', and an output unit that outputs the signal converted by the signal conversion unit 503 to the new control panel 106'.

[0134] According to the signal conversion device 400 of the embodiment of the present invention, when the control panel 106 is replaced with a new control panel 106', it is connected between the new control panel 106' and the component 700, so that the up signal output from the component 700 can be converted into another signal that has the same meaning as the up signal and can be understood by the new control panel 106', and the converted signal can be output to the new control panel 106'. This makes it possible to prevent the operation of the elevator 100 from being affected by replacing the control panel 106 with the new control panel 106', even when the component 700 and another component 700 coexist.

[0135] As described above, according to the replacement construction method of the embodiment of the present invention, the elevator 100 can be renewed without interfering with the operation of the elevator 100.

[0136] Furthermore, the signal conversion device 400 according to the embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that the input section includes a connection terminal for each of the components 700 .

[0137] According to the signal conversion device 400 of the embodiment of the present invention, by configuring the input section with a connection terminal provided for each component 700, it is possible to reliably convert each up signal from each component 700 into a different signal that has the same meaning as the up signal and can be understood by the new control panel 106', and input it to the new control panel 106'. This makes it possible to prevent problems with the operation of the elevator 100 caused by replacing the control panel 106 with the new control panel 106'.

[0138] Furthermore, the signal conversion device 400 according to the embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that the output section includes a connection terminal for each of the components 700 .

[0139] According to the signal conversion device 400 of the embodiment of the present invention, by configuring the output section with a connection terminal provided for each component 700, it is possible to reliably convert each of the downstream signals from each component 700 into a different signal that has the same meaning as the downstream signal and can be understood by each component 700, and input it to each component 700. This makes it possible to prevent interference with the operation of the elevator 100 even when the component 700 and another component 700 coexist. [Industrial Applicability]

[0140] As described above, the elevator renovation method, replacement construction method, and signal conversion device according to the present invention are useful for elevator renovation, and are particularly suitable for renovation of elevators after they have been installed. [Explanation of symbols]

[0141] 106 Control Panel 106' New control panel 400 Signal conversion device 501 Input section (component side) 502 Input section (new control panel side) 503 Signal conversion unit 504 Output section (new control panel side) 505 Output section (component side) 700 Components 700' new component

Claims

1. an input unit comprising the n input terminals individually connected to n (n is a natural number of 2 or more) components controlled by a control panel provided in the elevator; an output unit including the n output terminals corresponding to the input terminals, which is individually connected to a new control panel of a type different from the control panel for each of the components; a signal conversion unit that converts a signal related to the transmission information from each of the components to the control panel, which is input from each of the input terminals of the input unit, into another signal related to the transmission information that has the same meaning as the signal and can be understood by the new control panel; Equipped with The output unit outputs the signals converted by the signal conversion unit from each of the output terminals to the new control panel. A signal conversion device comprising:

2. an output unit comprising the n output terminals individually connected to n (n is a natural number of 2 or more) components controlled by a control panel provided in the elevator; an input unit including the n input terminals corresponding to the output terminals, which is connected individually to a new control panel of a type different from the control panel for each of the components; a signal conversion unit that converts a signal related to the transmission information from the new control panel to each of the components, which is input from each of the input terminals of the input unit and output by the new control panel, into another signal related to the transmission information that has the same meaning as the signal and can be understood by each of the components; Equipped with the output unit outputs the signals converted by the signal conversion unit to the components from the output terminals; A signal conversion device comprising:

Images