Elevator control system and elevator control method

Abstract

To provide an elevator control system and elevator control method that can suppress contact between workers on the ceiling surface of the elevator car and components of the elevator. [Solution] The elevator control system comprises a detection unit, a decision unit, and a control unit. The detection unit detects workers performing tasks on the ceiling surface of the elevator car. When the decision unit receives an instruction from a worker to operate the elevator car, it determines whether or not to raise or lower the elevator car based on the position of the worker detected by the detection unit. The control unit controls the raising or lowering of the elevator car based on the result of the decision made by the decision unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to an elevator control system and an elevator control method.

Background Art

[0002] In elevator maintenance inspections, there is a task where an operator checks the main rope, roller guides, etc. while standing on the upper surface of the elevator car ceiling.

[0003] However, in elevator maintenance inspections, there are concerns that an operator on the upper surface of the elevator car ceiling may come into contact with rotating or movable parts on the car. Also, there are concerns that an operator may come into contact with hoistway equipment when the car passes by the hoistway equipment outside the car.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] An embodiment aims to provide an elevator control system and an elevator control method that can suppress contact between an operator on the upper surface of the elevator car ceiling and elevator components.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] An elevator control system according to an embodiment includes a detection unit, a determination unit, and a control unit. The detection unit detects an operator working on the upper surface of the elevator car ceiling. The determination unit determines whether the elevator car can move up and down based on the position of the operator detected by the detection unit when receiving a driving instruction for the elevator car from the operator. The control unit controls the movement of the elevator car based on the result of the determination by the determination unit. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows a schematic configuration of an elevator device equipped with the elevator control system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a plan view showing the elevator car of the elevator system shown in Figure 1. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the ceiling surface of the elevator car shown in Figure 2. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing an elevator control system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the elevator control system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a flowchart detailing the process of determining whether or not the elevator car can be raised or lowered, as shown in the flowchart of Figure 5. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a block diagram showing an elevator control system according to a first modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of an elevator control system according to a first modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a perspective view showing the configuration on the ceiling surface of an elevator car in an elevator device equipped with an elevator control system according to a second modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a block diagram showing an elevator control system according to a second modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of an elevator control system according to a second modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a plan view showing the elevator car of an elevator device equipped with an elevator control system according to a third modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 13]Figure 13 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of an elevator control system according to a third modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a perspective view showing the configuration on the ceiling surface of an elevator car in an elevator device equipped with an elevator control system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a block diagram showing an elevator control system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 16] Figure 16 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of an elevator control system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 17] Figure 17 is a perspective view showing the configuration on the ceiling surface of an elevator car in an elevator device equipped with an elevator control system according to the third embodiment. [Figure 18] Figure 18 is a block diagram showing an elevator control system according to a third embodiment. [Figure 19] Figure 19 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of an elevator control system according to the third embodiment. [Figure 20] Figure 20 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of an elevator control system according to a modification of the third embodiment. [Figure 21] Figure 21 is a block diagram showing an elevator control system according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 22] Figure 22 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of an elevator control system according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 23] Figure 23 shows a schematic configuration of an elevator device equipped with the elevator control system according to the fifth embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. These embodiments are not limiting to the present invention. In the drawings referenced in the embodiments, the same or similar reference numerals are used for identical parts or parts having similar functions, and repeated descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0009] (First Embodiment) As shown in FIG. 1, the elevator control system 10 is mounted on the elevator device 1 and can be used, for example, by an operator to perform maintenance and inspection work on the elevator device 1. The elevator device 1 includes a car 3 that can move up and down in a hoistway 2, and a counterweight 4 connected to the car 3 via a main rope 5. The main rope 5 is wound around a main sheave 6a provided on a hoisting machine 6 and a deflecting sheave 7. When the hoisting machine 6 winds up the main rope 5, the car 3 and the counterweight 4 move up and down. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the hoisting machine 6 is arranged at the upper part of the hoistway 2. As shown in the fifth embodiment described later, the hoisting machine 6 may be arranged in a machine room provided above the hoistway 2. The lower part of the car 3 and the lower part of the counterweight 4 are connected by a compensating rope 8. The compensating rope 8 corrects the imbalance between the weight applied to the main rope 5 on the car 3 side and the weight applied to the main rope 5 on the counterweight 4 side. The compensating rope 8 is wound around a compensating sheave 9.

[0010] The elevator control system 10 includes a first control panel 40 arranged in the hoistway 2 and a load sensor 21 arranged on the ceiling upper surface 31 of the car 3. The first control panel 40 and the equipment mounted on the car 3 are electrically connected via a tail cord 11. The first control panel 40 and the hoisting machine 6 are electrically connected via a wiring (not shown). The first control panel 40 controls the up-and-down movement of the car 3 by controlling the drive of the hoisting machine 6. Further, the first control panel 40 controls the opening and closing of the door of the car 3. The first control panel 40 may be arranged in the machine room. The load sensor 21 is used to detect an operator on the ceiling upper surface 31 of the car 3. The first control panel 40 controls the up-and-down movement of the car 3 based on the position of the operator detected using the load sensor 21.

[0011] As shown in Figure 2, a car frame 32, a handrail 33, and an upper beam 34 are provided on the upper ceiling surface 31 of the elevator car 3. A second control panel 30 is provided on the side of the upper beam 34. The second control panel 30 is used, for example, to detect the load acting on the floor surface based on the detection signal of a load sensor (not shown) provided on the floor surface inside the elevator car 3. To enable workers to work on the upper ceiling surface 31, which is normally a dark place, lighting devices may be provided on the upper ceiling surface 31 to illuminate the surrounding area.

[0012] The ceiling surface 31 has deviation prevention positions 311. The deviation prevention position 311 is a working position in which the worker's body is prevented from deviating outside the projection area R, which is obtained by projecting the ceiling surface 31 in the direction of the elevator car 3's ascent and descent. The deviation prevention position 311 can also be called a safety position. By positioning themselves at the deviation prevention position 311, workers can prevent their bodies (e.g., hands and feet) from deviating outside the projection area R (i.e., sticking out). Figure 2 shows a plan view of the projection area R as seen from the direction of the elevator car 3's ascent and descent. In the example shown in Figure 2, the deviation prevention position 311 is any position on the ceiling surface 31 within the area enclosed by the frame F.

[0013] The load sensor 21 is positioned at the deviation prevention position 311. The load sensor 21 detects the load acting on the deviation prevention position 311. Specifically, the load sensor 21 outputs a detection signal corresponding to the load acting on the deviation prevention position 311. The detection signal output from the load sensor 21 is input to the first control panel 40.

[0014] In the example shown in Figure 2, two load sensors 21 are positioned at the deviation prevention position 311. Specifically, the two load sensors 21 are positioned diagonally on the ceiling surface 31, with the upper beam 34 in between. More specifically, the load sensors 21 have the shape of a human footprint. The fact that the load sensors 21 have the shape of a human footprint can be visually confirmed from the outside, for example, by the color or mark applied to the load sensors 21. Because the load sensors 21 have the shape of a human footprint, workers can intuitively understand the position where they should stay when raising or lowering the elevator car 3 along the elevator shaft 2. Note that the load sensors 21 do not necessarily have to have the shape of a footprint. For example, load sensors 21 may be positioned across all deviation prevention positions 311. The load sensors 21 may be, for example, piezoelectric or strain gauge type sensors.

[0015] Within the elevator shaft 2, a pair of guide rails 12 are provided to guide the elevator car 3 as it moves up and down along the elevator shaft 2. Within the elevator shaft 2, a pair of guide rails (not shown) are also provided to guide the counterweight 4 as it moves up and down.

[0016] As shown in Figure 3, a worker O on the ceiling surface 31 can transmit an operation command to the first control panel 40 using a remote control (not shown) while positioned on the load sensor 21. By transmitting an operation command, the elevator car 3 can be raised or lowered. As shown in Figure 3, the elevator device 1 includes a roller guide 13 that rolls along the guide rail 12, a rope hitch 14 that fixes one end of the main rope 5 to the elevator car 3, and a guide shoe 15 that guides the elevator car 3 along the guide rail 12. As the roller guide 13 rolls along the guide rail 12, the elevator car 3 rises or falls along the guide rail 12. Note that a roller guide 13 is also provided on the counterweight 4 side so as to roll along the guide rail on the counterweight 4 side. The other end of the main rope 5 is fixed to the rope hitch (not shown) on the counterweight 4 side.

[0017] The configuration of the elevator control system 10 will be described in more detail. As shown in Figure 4, the elevator control system 10 comprises a detection unit 20, a judgment unit 42, and a control unit 43. The detection unit 20 detects workers performing work on the ceiling surface 31. The detection unit 20 comprises the load sensor 21 and the detection processing unit 41 described above. Note that in Figure 4, only one load sensor 21 is typically shown. The detection processing unit 41, the judgment unit 42, and the control unit 43 are housed in the first control panel 40. The configuration is not limited to this, and the detection processing unit 41 may be housed in the second control panel 30 described above.

[0018] The load sensor 21 outputs a detection signal to the detection processing unit 41 corresponding to the load acting on the deviation prevention position 311. Based on the detection signal input from the load sensor 21, the detection processing unit 41 calculates the load acting on the deviation prevention position 311. Based on the fact that the calculated load represents the load distribution of a human foot shape, the detection processing unit 41 detects a worker at the deviation prevention position 311.

[0019] When the decision unit 42 receives an instruction from a worker to operate the elevator car 3, it determines whether or not the elevator car 3 can be raised or lowered based on the position of the worker detected by the detection unit 20. The decision unit 42 determines that the elevator car 3 can be raised or lowered if the detection unit 20 detects a worker at the deviation prevention position 311. Conversely, the decision unit 42 determines that the elevator car 3 cannot be raised or lowered if the detection unit 20 does not detect a worker at the deviation prevention position 311.

[0020] The control unit 43 controls the raising and lowering of the elevator car 3 based on the determination result of the judgment unit 42. If the judgment unit 42 determines that it is possible to raise or lower the elevator car 3, the control unit 43 raises or lowers the elevator car 3 by driving the hoisting machine 6. If the judgment unit 42 determines that it is not possible to raise or lower the elevator car 3, the control unit 43 does not raise or lower the elevator car 3 by not driving the hoisting machine 6. In other words, the control unit 43 maintains the elevator car 3 in a stopped state.

[0021] Next, an example of the operation of the elevator control system 10 described above will be explained. As shown in Figure 5, first, the determination unit 42 determines whether the car inspection mode is set and whether or not an operation instruction for the elevator car 3 has been received from a worker on the ceiling surface 31 via remote control (step S1). The car inspection mode is the operation mode of the elevator car 3 when a worker performs inspection work on the elevator device 1 on the ceiling surface 31.

[0022] If there is an instruction to operate elevator car 3 in the elevator car inspection mode (Step S1: Yes), the determination unit 42 determines whether or not elevator car 3 can be raised or lowered (Step S2). On the other hand, if there is no instruction to operate elevator car 3 in the elevator car inspection mode (Step S1: No), the elevator control system 10 repeats the determination of whether or not there was an instruction to operate elevator car 3 in the elevator car inspection mode (Step S1).

[0023] To further explain the determination of whether or not the elevator car 3 can be raised or lowered (step S2), as shown in Figure 6, first, the detection processing unit 41 acquires the detection signal from the load sensor 21 (step S21).

[0024] After acquiring the detection signal from the load sensor 21, the detection processing unit 41 calculates the load acting on the deviation prevention position 311 based on the acquired detection signal from the load sensor 21 (step S22).

[0025] After calculating the load acting on the deviation prevention position 311, the detection processing unit 41 determines whether the calculated load acting on the deviation prevention position 311 represents a load distribution in the shape of a human foot (step S23).

[0026] If the calculated load acting on the deviation prevention position 311 shows a load distribution in the shape of a human foot (Step S23: Yes), the detection processing unit 41 determines that a worker has been detected at the deviation prevention position 311 (Step S24). On the other hand, if the calculated load does not show a load distribution in the shape of a human foot (Step S23: No), the detection processing unit 41 determines that a worker has not been detected at the deviation prevention position 311 (Step S25).

[0027] After a worker is detected at the deviation prevention position 311, the determination unit 42 determines that the elevator car 3 can be raised or lowered (Step S2: Yes).

[0028] On the other hand, after no worker is detected at the deviation prevention position 311, the determination unit 42 determines that it is impossible to raise or lower the elevator car 3 (Step S2: No).

[0029] If the elevator car 3 is capable of being raised or lowered (Step S2: Yes), the control unit 43 raises or lowers the elevator car 3 according to the driving instruction, as shown in Figure 5 (Step S3). If the detection processing unit 41 detects that a worker has moved from the departure prevention position 311 while the elevator car 3 is being raised or lowered, the first control panel 40 may output an alarm sound from the worker's remote control or other alarm device. In this case, the control unit 43 may gradually decelerate the elevator car 3 and bring it to a stop.

[0030] On the other hand, if it is not possible to raise or lower the elevator car 3 (step S2: No), the control unit 43 maintains the stopped state of the elevator car 3 (step S4).

[0031] As described above, according to the elevator control system 10 of the first embodiment, the detection unit 20 detects workers performing work on the upper ceiling surface 31 of the elevator car 3 of the elevator device 1. The decision unit 42, upon receiving an instruction from a worker to operate the elevator car 3, determines whether or not to raise or lower the elevator car 3 based on the position of the worker detected by the detection unit 20. The control unit 43 controls the raising and lowering of the elevator car 3 based on the result of the decision made by the decision unit 42. As a result, the raising and lowering of the elevator car 3 can be controlled according to the position of the worker on the upper ceiling surface 31, thereby suppressing contact between the worker on the upper ceiling surface 31 and the components of the elevator device 1.

[0032] Furthermore, according to the elevator control system 10 of the first embodiment, the ceiling surface 31 has a deviation prevention position 311 that prevents a worker's body from deviating outside the projection area R obtained by projecting the ceiling surface 31 in the direction of the elevator car 3's movement. The determination unit 42 determines that the elevator car 3 can move up or down when the detection unit 20 detects a worker at the deviation prevention position 311. As a result, when a worker is detected at the deviation prevention position 311, the elevator car 3 can be permitted to move up or down, thus easily and appropriately preventing contact between a worker on the ceiling surface 31 and the components of the elevator device 1.

[0033] Furthermore, according to the elevator control system 10 of the first embodiment, the detection unit 20 has at least one load sensor 21 that detects the load acting on the deviation prevention position 311, and detects a worker at the deviation prevention position 311 based on the fact that the load detected by the load sensor 21 shows the load distribution of a human foot shape. This makes it possible to easily and appropriately detect a worker at the deviation prevention position 311. It is also conceivable that a worker may place luggage on the load sensor 21 and be positioned elsewhere. However, in that case, the load detected by the load sensor 21 will not show the load distribution of a human foot shape, and therefore the worker will not be detected at the deviation prevention position 311. Since the worker is not detected at the deviation prevention position 311, the elevator car 3 will not be allowed to move up or down. Therefore, by using the load sensor 21 to detect a worker based on the load distribution of a human foot shape, it is also possible to suppress manipulation of the elevator control.

[0034] (First variation) Next, we will describe a first modification of the first embodiment that limits the number of workers on the ceiling surface 31, focusing on the differences from the embodiment described above. As shown in Figure 7, the elevator control system 10 according to the first modification of the first embodiment further includes a person sensor 22 in addition to the configuration shown in Figure 4.

[0035] The people sensor 22 is a component of the detection unit 20. The people sensor 22 outputs a detection signal to the detection processing unit 41 according to the number of workers on the ceiling surface 31. The people sensor 22 is, for example, a camera that outputs an image signal acquired by imaging an imaging area on the ceiling surface 31 as a detection signal. The people sensor 22 may have a thermosensor instead of a camera, or in addition to a camera. The thermosensor outputs a temperature signal acquired by detecting the temperature of a sensing area on the ceiling surface 31 as a detection signal. The detection processing unit 41 detects the number of workers on the ceiling surface 31 based on the detection signal from the people sensor 22. If the number of people detected by the detection processing unit 41 is less than or equal to the set number, the decision unit 42 determines whether or not to raise or lower the elevator car 3 based on the position of the workers. The set number of people may be, for example, 2 people, but is not limited to this. On the other hand, if the number of workers detected by the detection processing unit 41 is not less than or equal to the set number, the decision unit 42 makes an announcement to reduce the number of workers to less than or equal to the set number. Announcements are made, for example, via a remote control held by a worker on the ceiling surface 31.

[0036] Next, an example of the operation of the elevator control system 10 shown in Figure 7 will be described. As shown in Figure 8, the detection processing unit 41 acquires the detection signal from the passenger sensor 22 (step S5) when there is an instruction to operate the elevator car 3 in the car inspection mode (step S1: Yes).

[0037] After acquiring the detection signal from the people sensor 22, the detection processing unit 41 calculates the number of workers on the upper ceiling surface 31 of the elevator car 3 based on the acquired detection signal from the people sensor 22 (step S6).

[0038] After the number of workers on the ceiling surface 31 is calculated, the determination unit 42 determines whether or not there are two or fewer workers on the ceiling surface 31 (step S7).

[0039] If there are two or fewer workers on the ceiling surface 31 (Step S7: Yes), the determination unit 42 determines whether or not the elevator car 3 can be raised or lowered (Step S2). On the other hand, if there are more than two or fewer workers on the ceiling surface 31 (Step S7: No), the determination unit 42 makes an announcement to ensure that there are two or fewer workers on the ceiling surface 31 (Step S8). After the announcement is made, the detection processing unit 41 repeatedly acquires the detection signal from the person sensor 22 (Step S5). The detection unit 20 may limit the number of load sensors 21 to be driven according to the number of workers on the ceiling surface 31 calculated using the person sensor 22.

[0040] As described above, according to the first modified elevator control system 10 of the first embodiment, the person sensor 22 detects the number of workers on the ceiling surface 31. The determination unit 42 determines whether or not the elevator car 3 can be raised or lowered based on the position of the workers when the number of people detected by the person sensor 22 is less than or equal to the set number. This makes it possible to limit the number of workers on the ceiling surface 31, thereby more effectively suppressing contact between workers on the ceiling surface 31 and the components of the elevator device 1.

[0041] (Second variation) Next, a second modification of the first embodiment, which has a second load sensor above the deviation prevention position 311, will be described, focusing on the differences from the embodiment described above. In the example shown in Figure 9, the elevator control system 10 further includes a second load sensor 23 in addition to the configuration shown in Figure 2. The second load sensor 23 detects a load acting on a designated position that specifies the position of a part of the worker's body (e.g., hand) on the deviation prevention position 311. The designated position is a position that allows the worker on the deviation prevention position 311 to assume a posture suitable for more effectively preventing deviation from the projection area R. In the example shown in Figure 9, the designated position is the position on which the worker on the deviation prevention position 311 should touch with their hand. Specifically, the designated position is a position on the side surface of the upper beam 34. That is, the second load sensor 23 is positioned at the designated position on the side surface of the upper beam 34. Note that the designated position may be a position other than the side surface of the upper beam 34, as long as it can enhance the effect of preventing the worker from deviating from the projection area R. In the example shown in Figure 9, the second load sensor 23 has a human handprint. The fact that the second load sensor 23 has a human handprint can be visually confirmed from the outside, for example, by the color or mark applied to the second load sensor 23. Because the second load sensor 23 has a human handprint, workers can intuitively grasp the designated location. However, the second load sensor 23 does not necessarily have to have a handprint. The detection method of the second load sensor 23 may be the same as that of the load sensor 21, or it may be different.

[0042] As shown in Figure 10, the second load sensor 23 is a component of the detection unit 20. The second load sensor 23 outputs a detection signal to the detection processing unit 41 corresponding to the load acting at the specified position. The detection processing unit 41 calculates the load acting at the specified position based on the detection signal input from the second load sensor 23.

[0043] The detection processing unit 41 detects a worker at the deviation prevention position 311 based on the fact that the load calculated based on the detection signal of the load sensor 21 represents the load distribution of a human foot shape, and the load calculated based on the detection signal of the second load sensor 23 represents the load distribution of a human hand.

[0044] Next, an example of the operation of the elevator control system 10 shown in Figures 9 and 10 will be described. As shown in Figure 11, the detection processing unit 41 acquires the detection signal of the second load sensor 23 (step S26) if the load acting on the deviation prevention position 311, calculated based on the detection signal of the load sensor 21, shows a load distribution in the shape of a human foot (step S23: Yes).

[0045] After acquiring the detection signal from the second load sensor 23, the detection processing unit 41 calculates the load acting at the specified position based on the acquired detection signal from the second load sensor 23 (step S27).

[0046] After calculating the load acting at the specified position, the detection processing unit 41 determines whether the calculated load acting at the specified position represents the load distribution of a human hand (step S28).

[0047] If the calculated load acting at the designated position shows the load distribution of a human handprint (Step S28: Yes), the detection processing unit 41 determines that a worker has been detected at the deviation prevention position 311 (Step S24). On the other hand, if the calculated load acting at the designated position does not show the load distribution of a human handprint (Step S28: No), the detection processing unit 41 determines that a worker has not been detected at the deviation prevention position 311 (Step S25).

[0048] As described above, according to the elevator control system 10 of the second modification of the first embodiment, the detection unit 20 detects a worker at the deviation suppression position 311 when the load detected by the load sensor 21 shows a load distribution in the shape of a human foot, and the load detected by the second load sensor 23 shows a load distribution in the shape of a human hand (i.e., the shape of a part of the body). As a result, the elevator car 3 can be raised and lowered with the worker's deviation from the projection area R more appropriately suppressed, and contact between the worker on the ceiling surface 31 and the components of the elevator device 1 can be more effectively suppressed.

[0049] (Third variation) Next, a third modification of the first embodiment, in which the load sensor 21 is positioned at a location other than the deviation suppression position 311, will be described, focusing on the differences from the embodiment described above. In the example shown in Figure 12, the load sensor 21 is positioned at a location other than the deviation suppression position 311. That is, the load sensor 21 is positioned outside the projection area R in a location where deviation of the worker's body is not suppressed. In other words, the load sensor 21 is positioned outside the projection area R in a location where there is a high probability that the worker's body will deviate. More specifically, in the example shown in Figure 12, the load sensor 21 is positioned on the outer edge of the ceiling surface 31.

[0050] In the example shown in Figure 12, the load sensor 21 outputs a detection signal to the detection processing unit 41 corresponding to the load acting at a position other than the deviation prevention position 311. Based on the detection signal input from the load sensor 21, the detection processing unit 41 calculates the load acting at a position other than the deviation prevention position 311. Based on the fact that the calculated load represents the load distribution of a human foot shape, the detection processing unit 41 detects a worker at a position other than the deviation prevention position 311.

[0051] The determination unit 42 determines that it is impossible to raise or lower the elevator car 3 if the detection processing unit 41 has detected a worker at a position other than the deviation prevention position 311. The determination unit 42 also determines that it is possible to raise or lower the elevator car 3 if the detection processing unit 41 has not detected a worker at a position other than the deviation prevention position 311.

[0052] Next, an example of the operation of the elevator control system 10 shown in Figure 12 will be described. As shown in Figure 13, if the load acting on a position other than the deviation prevention position 311, calculated based on the detection signal of the load sensor 21, does not show a load distribution of a human foot shape (step S23: No), the detection processing unit 41 determines that no worker was detected at a position other than the deviation prevention position 311 (step S29). Note that the case where the calculated load does not show a load distribution of a human foot shape also includes the case where the calculated load is zero. On the other hand, if the load acting on a position other than the deviation prevention position 311 shows a load distribution of a human foot shape (step S23: Yes), the detection processing unit 41 determines that a worker was detected at a position other than the deviation prevention position 311 (step S210).

[0053] After no worker is detected at any position other than the deviation prevention position 311, the determination unit 42 determines that the elevator car 3 can be raised or lowered (Step S2: Yes).

[0054] On the other hand, after a worker is detected at a position other than the deviation prevention position 311, the determination unit 42 determines that it is impossible to raise or lower the elevator car 3 (Step S2: No).

[0055] As described above, according to the elevator control system 10, a third modification of the first embodiment, the load sensor 21 detects a load acting at a position other than the deviation prevention position 311. The detection unit 20 detects a worker at a position other than the deviation prevention position 311 based on the fact that the load detected by the load sensor 21 shows a load distribution in the shape of a human foot. The determination unit 42 determines that the elevator car 3 can be raised or lowered based on the fact that the detection unit 20 did not detect a worker at a position other than the deviation prevention position 311. This makes it possible to suppress contact between a worker on the ceiling surface 31 and the components of the elevator device 1, similar to the embodiment described above. In addition, the degree of freedom in the placement position of the load sensor 21 can be improved.

[0056] (Second embodiment) Next, a second embodiment in which workers are detected using a multi-axis optical sensor will be described, focusing on the differences from the embodiment described above. Up to this point, an example in which workers on the ceiling surface 31 are detected using a load sensor 21 has been described. In contrast, in the example shown in Figure 14, the elevator control system 10 detects workers on the ceiling surface 31 using a multi-axis optical sensor 24. The multi-axis optical sensor 24 is a sensor that detects workers based on the fact that a multi-beam such as infrared light is blocked by the worker. In the example shown in Figure 14, two multi-axis optical sensors 24 are arranged. The multi-axis optical sensor 24 comprises a light emitter 24a that emits a multi-beam and a light receiver 24b that receives the multi-beam emitted from the light emitter 24a. The light emitters 24a are arranged so as to extend upward at each of the two corners of the substantially rectangular ceiling surface 31. The light receiver 24b is positioned extending upward at each of the two corners of the ceiling surface 31 that are different from the corner where the light emitter 24a is located. The light emitter 24a and light receiver 24b may also be provided on the handrail 33. The multi-axis optical sensor 24 having light emitters 24a and light receivers 24b positioned at the corners of the ceiling surface 31 in this manner can sense the area excluding the deviation suppression position 311 and optically detect workers. As long as the area excluding the deviation suppression position 311 can be sensed, the position and number of light emitters 24a and light receivers 24b are not limited to the example shown in Figure 14.

[0057] In the example shown in Figure 15, the multi-axis sensor 24 (i.e., the light receiver 24b) outputs a detection signal to the detection processing unit 41 according to the detection status of a worker at a position other than the deviation suppression position 311. Note that only one multi-axis sensor 24 is typically shown in Figure 15. The detection processing unit 41 detects a worker at a position other than the deviation suppression position 311 based on the detection signal input from the multi-axis sensor 24.

[0058] The determination unit 42 determines that the elevator car 3 can be raised or lowered if the detection processing unit 41 does not detect a worker at a position other than the deviation prevention position 311. The determination unit 42 also determines that the elevator car 3 cannot be raised or lowered if the detection processing unit 41 detects a worker at a position other than the deviation prevention position 311.

[0059] Next, an example of the operation of the elevator control system 10 shown in Figures 14 and 15 will be described. As shown in Figure 16, first, the detection processing unit 41 acquires the detection signal from the multi-axis sensor 24 (step S211).

[0060] After acquiring the detection signal from the multi-axis sensor 24, the detection processing unit 41 determines whether or not a worker has been detected based on the acquired detection signal from the multi-axis sensor 24 (step S212).

[0061] If no worker is detected (Step S212: No), the detection processing unit 41 determines that no worker was detected at a location other than the deviation suppression position 311 (Step S29). On the other hand, if a worker is detected (Step S212: Yes), the detection processing unit 41 determines that a worker was detected at a location other than the deviation suppression position 311 (Step S210).

[0062] After no worker is detected at any position other than the deviation prevention position 311, the determination unit 42 determines that the elevator car 3 can be raised or lowered (Step S2: Yes).

[0063] On the other hand, after a worker is detected at a position other than the deviation prevention position 311, the determination unit 42 determines that it is impossible to raise or lower the elevator car 3 (Step S2: No).

[0064] As described above, according to the elevator control system 10 of the second embodiment, the detection unit 20 has at least one multi-axis optical sensor 24 that senses an area other than the deviation prevention position 311 and optically detects a worker. The detection unit 20 detects a worker at a position other than the deviation prevention position 311 based on the detection of a worker by the multi-axis optical sensor 24. The determination unit 42 determines that the elevator car 3 can be raised or lowered if the detection unit 20 does not detect a worker at a position other than the deviation prevention position 311. As a result, the elevator car 3 can be allowed to be raised or lowered when the multi-axis optical sensor 24 does not detect a worker at a position other than the deviation prevention position 311, so that contact between a worker on the ceiling surface 31 and the components of the elevator device 1 can be easily and appropriately suppressed.

[0065] (Third embodiment) Next, a third embodiment in which workers are detected using cameras will be described, focusing on the differences from the embodiments described above. Up to this point, examples have been described in which workers on the ceiling surface 31 are detected using load sensors 21 or multi-axis sensors 24. In contrast, in the example shown in Figure 17, the elevator control system 10 detects workers on the ceiling surface 31 using cameras 25. In the example shown in Figure 17, multiple cameras 25 are distributed and arranged on the car frame 32 and the upper beam 34. The multiple cameras 25 are arranged to image an area including the deviation prevention position 311 so as a whole there are no blind spots. The position and number of cameras 25 are not limited to the example shown in Figure 17, as long as the area including the deviation prevention position 311 can be imaged without blind spots. For example, instead of arranging multiple cameras 25, one 360° camera may be arranged.

[0066] In the example shown in Figure 18, camera 25 outputs an image of the region including the deviation suppression position 311 to the detection processing unit 41. Note that only one camera 25 is typically shown in Figure 18. Based on the image input from camera 25, the detection processing unit 41 detects a worker at the deviation suppression position 311.

[0067] The determination unit 42 determines that the elevator car 3 can be raised or lowered if the detection processing unit 41 has detected a worker at the deviation prevention position 311. The determination unit 42 also determines that the elevator car 3 cannot be raised or lowered if the detection processing unit 41 has not detected a worker at the deviation prevention position 311.

[0068] Next, an example of the operation of the elevator control system 10 shown in Figures 17 and 18 will be described. As shown in Figure 19, first, the detection processing unit 41 acquires the image captured by the camera 25 (step S213).

[0069] After acquiring the image captured by camera 25, the detection processing unit 41 determines whether or not a worker has been detected based on the acquired image captured by camera 25 (step S214).

[0070] If a worker is detected (Step S214: Yes), the detection processing unit 41 determines that a worker was detected at the deviation prevention position 311 (Step S24). On the other hand, if a worker is not detected (Step S214: No), the detection processing unit 41 determines that a worker was not detected at the deviation prevention position 311 (Step S25).

[0071] After a worker is detected at the deviation prevention position 311, the determination unit 42 determines that the elevator car 3 can be raised or lowered (Step S2: Yes).

[0072] On the other hand, after no worker is detected at the deviation prevention position 311, the determination unit 42 determines that it is impossible to raise or lower the elevator car 3 (Step S2: No).

[0073] As described above, according to the elevator control system 10 of the third embodiment, the detection unit 20 has at least one camera 25 that captures an image of the area including the deviation prevention position 311 and detects a worker based on the captured image. The detection unit 20 detects a worker at the deviation prevention position 311 based on the detection of a worker by the camera 25. The determination unit 42 also determines that the elevator car 3 can be raised or lowered in response to the detection unit 20 detecting a worker at the deviation prevention position 311. As a result, when a worker is detected by the camera 25 at the deviation prevention position 311, the raising or lowering of the elevator car 3 can be permitted, so that contact between a worker on the ceiling surface 31 and the components of the elevator device 1 can be easily and appropriately suppressed.

[0074] (modified version) Next, a modified example of a third embodiment, which includes a camera 25 (i.e., a second camera) that images an area excluding the deviation suppression position 311, will be described, focusing on the differences from the embodiments described above. In this modified example, the camera 25 of the detection unit 20 is arranged to image an area excluding the deviation suppression position 311. The camera 25 outputs an image of the area excluding the deviation suppression position 311 to the detection processing unit 41. Based on the image input from the camera 25, the detection processing unit 41 detects a worker at a location other than the deviation suppression position 311. The determination unit 42 determines that the elevator car 3 can be raised or lowered in accordance with the detection processing unit 41's determination that no worker was detected at a location other than the deviation suppression position 311.

[0075] Next, an example of the operation of the modified elevator control system 10 will be described. As shown in Figure 20, first, the detection processing unit 41 acquires the image captured by the camera 25 (step S213).

[0076] After acquiring the image captured by camera 25, the detection processing unit 41 determines whether or not a worker has been detected based on the acquired image captured by camera 25 (step S214).

[0077] If no worker is detected (Step S214: No), the detection processing unit 41 determines that no worker was detected at a location other than the deviation suppression position 311 (Step S29). On the other hand, if a worker is detected (Step S214: Yes), the detection processing unit 41 determines that a worker was detected at a location other than the deviation suppression position 311 (Step S210).

[0078] After no worker is detected at any position other than the deviation prevention position 311, the determination unit 42 determines that the elevator car 3 can be raised or lowered (Step S2: Yes).

[0079] On the other hand, after a worker is detected at a position other than the deviation prevention position 311, the determination unit 42 determines that it is impossible to raise or lower the elevator car 3 (Step S2: No).

[0080] As described above, according to the modified elevator control system 10 of the third embodiment, the detection unit 20 detects a worker at a location other than the deviation prevention position 311 based on the detection of a worker based on the image of the area excluding the deviation prevention position 311 captured by the camera 25. The determination unit 42 determines that the elevator car 3 can be raised or lowered if the detection unit 20 does not detect a worker at a location other than the deviation prevention position 311. As a result, the elevator car 3 can be allowed to be raised or lowered when the camera 25 does not detect a worker at a location other than the deviation prevention position 311, thus easily and appropriately preventing contact between a worker on the ceiling surface 31 and the components of the elevator device 1.

[0081] (Fourth embodiment) Next, a fourth embodiment in which a worker is detected using a load sensor 21, a multi-axis sensor 24, and a camera 25 will be described, focusing on the differences from the embodiments described above. In the example shown in Figure 21, the detection unit 20 includes at least one load sensor 21, at least one multi-axis sensor 24, and at least one camera 25. The detection processing unit 41 detects a worker at the deviation suppression position 311 based on the fact that the load detected by the load sensor 21 indicates a load distribution in the shape of a human foot, and that a worker has been detected by the camera 25. The detection processing unit 41 also detects a worker at a position other than the deviation suppression position 311 based on the fact that a worker has been detected by the multi-axis sensor 24.

[0082] The determination unit 42 determines that the elevator car 3 can be raised or lowered based on the detection processing unit 41 detecting a worker at the deviation prevention position 311 and the detection processing unit 41 not detecting a worker at any position other than the deviation prevention position 311.

[0083] Next, an example of the operation of the elevator control system 10 according to the fourth embodiment will be described. As shown in Figure 22, first, the detection processing unit 41 acquires the detection signal from the load sensor 21 (step S21).

[0084] After acquiring the detection signal from the load sensor 21, the detection processing unit 41 calculates the load acting on the deviation prevention position 311 based on the acquired detection signal from the load sensor 21 (step S22).

[0085] After calculating the load acting on the deviation prevention position 311, the detection processing unit 41 determines whether the calculated load acting on the deviation prevention position 311 represents a load distribution in the shape of a human foot (step S23).

[0086] If the calculated load acting on the deviation prevention position 311 shows a load distribution in the shape of a human foot (step S23: Yes), the detection processing unit 41 acquires the image captured by the camera 25 (step S213). On the other hand, if the calculated load does not show a load distribution in the shape of a human foot (step S23: No), the detection processing unit 41 determines that no worker was detected at the deviation prevention position 311 (step S25).

[0087] After acquiring the image captured by camera 25, the detection processing unit 41 determines whether or not a worker has been detected based on the acquired image captured by camera 25 (step S214).

[0088] If a worker is detected (Step S214: Yes), the detection processing unit 41 determines that a worker was detected at the deviation prevention position 311 (Step S24). That is, the detection processing unit 41 determines that a worker was detected at the deviation prevention position 311 because the worker was detected by both the load sensor 21 located at the deviation prevention position 311 and the camera 25 that images the deviation prevention position 311. On the other hand, if a worker is not detected (Step S214: No), the detection processing unit 41 determines that a worker was not detected at the deviation prevention position 311 (Step S25).

[0089] After a worker is detected at the deviation prevention position 311, the detection processing unit 41 acquires the detection signal from the multi-axis sensor 24 (step S211).

[0090] After acquiring the detection signal from the multi-axis sensor 24, the detection processing unit 41 determines whether or not a worker has been detected based on the acquired detection signal from the multi-axis sensor 24 (step S212).

[0091] If no worker is detected (Step S212: No), the detection processing unit 41 determines that no worker was detected at a location other than the deviation suppression position 311 (Step S29). On the other hand, if a worker is detected (Step S212: Yes), the detection processing unit 41 determines that a worker was detected at a location other than the deviation suppression position 311 (Step S210).

[0092] After no worker is detected at any position other than the deviation prevention position 311, the determination unit 42 determines that the elevator car 3 can be raised or lowered (Step S2: Yes). In other words, the determination unit 42 determines that the elevator car 3 can be raised or lowered because a worker was detected at the deviation prevention position 311 by the load sensor 21 and the camera 25, and no worker was detected at any position other than the deviation prevention position 311 by the multi-axis optical sensor 24.

[0093] On the other hand, after a worker is detected at a position other than the deviation prevention position 311, or after a worker is not detected at the deviation prevention position 311, the determination unit 42 determines that it is impossible to raise or lower the elevator car 3 (Step S2: No).

[0094] As described above, according to the elevator control system 10 of the fourth embodiment, the detection unit 20 detects a worker at the deviation prevention position 311 based on the fact that the load detected by the load sensor 21 shows a load distribution in the shape of a human foot and that a worker has been detected by the camera 25. The detection unit 20 also detects a worker at a position other than the deviation prevention position 311 based on the fact that a worker has been detected by the multi-axis optical sensor 24. The determination unit 42 determines that the elevator car 3 can be raised or lowered based on the fact that a worker has been detected by the detection unit 20 at the deviation prevention position 311 and that a worker has not been detected by the detection unit 20 at a position other than the deviation prevention position 311. This makes it possible to more reliably prevent contact between a worker on the ceiling surface 31 and the components of the elevator device 1.

[0095] (Fifth embodiment) Next, a fifth embodiment in which the elevator system 1 includes a machine room will be described, focusing on the differences from the embodiments described above. In the example shown in Figure 23, the hoisting machine 6, the main sheave 6a, and the deflection sheave 7 are located in a machine room 17 provided above the hoistway 2. The first control panel 40 may also be located in the machine room 17. If the first control panel 40 is located in the machine room 17, one end of the tail cord 11 may be connected to a relay box instead of the first control panel 40. The relay box may be connected to the first control panel 40 via wired or wireless connection.

[0096] According to the fifth embodiment, even in an elevator system 1 having a machine room 17, contact between workers on the ceiling surface 31 and components of the elevator system 1 can be suppressed.

[0097] The configurations described in each embodiment and modified example above can be combined as appropriate. For example, the method of determining whether or not to raise or lower the elevator car 3 by combining the detection results of a worker by multiple sensors (e.g., load sensor 21, multi-axis sensor 24, and camera 25, etc.) is not limited to the configurations shown in Figures 21 and 22. Specifically, the method of determining whether or not to raise or lower the elevator car 3 can be determined by combining the detection results of a worker by two of the sensors among the load sensor 21, multi-axis sensor 24, and camera 25.

[0098] At least a part of the elevator control system 10 according to this embodiment may be configured as hardware or as software. If configured as software, a program that implements at least some of the functions of the elevator control system 10 may be stored on a recording medium such as a flexible disk or CD-ROM, loaded into a computer, and executed. The recording medium is not limited to removable ones such as magnetic disks or optical disks, but may also be a fixed recording medium such as a hard disk drive or memory. Furthermore, the program that implements at least some of the functions of the elevator control system 10 may be distributed via a communication line such as the Internet (including wireless communication). In addition, the program may be encrypted, modulated, or compressed, and then distributed via a wired or wireless line such as the Internet, or stored on a recording medium.

[0099] While several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be carried out in a variety of other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0100] 1 Elevator device, 10 Elevator control system, 20 Detection unit, 21 Load sensor, 24 Multi-axis sensor, 25 Camera, 3 Elevator car, 31 Ceiling surface, 311 Deviation prevention position, 42 Judgment unit, 43 Control unit

Claims

1. A detection unit that detects workers performing tasks on the ceiling surface of the elevator car, When the aforementioned worker gives an instruction to operate the elevator car, the determination unit determines whether or not to raise or lower the elevator car based on the position of the worker detected by the detection unit, A control unit that controls the raising and lowering of the elevator car based on the result of the determination by the determination unit, An elevator control system equipped with [this feature].

2. The ceiling surface has deviation prevention positions that prevent the worker's body from deviating outside the projection area obtained by projecting the ceiling surface in the direction of the elevator car's movement, The elevator control system according to claim 1, wherein the determination unit determines that the elevator car can be raised or lowered based on at least one of the following: the detection unit has detected the worker at the deviation prevention position, and the detection unit has not detected the worker at a position other than the deviation prevention position.

3. The detection unit has at least one load sensor that detects the load acting on the deviation prevention position, and detects the worker at the deviation prevention position based on the load detected by the load sensor showing the load distribution of a human foot shape. The elevator control system according to claim 2, wherein the determination unit determines that the elevator car can be raised or lowered in response to the detection unit detecting the worker at the deviation prevention position.

4. The detection unit has at least one multi-axis optical sensor that senses an area excluding the deviation suppression position and optically detects the worker, and based on the detection of the worker by the multi-axis optical sensor, it detects the worker at a position other than the deviation suppression position. The elevator control system according to claim 2, wherein the determination unit determines that the elevator car can be raised or lowered in accordance with the detection unit's determination that the worker was not detected at a position other than the deviation prevention position.

5. The detection unit has at least one camera that captures an image of the region including the deviation suppression position and detects the worker based on the captured image, and detects the worker at the deviation suppression position based on the detection of the worker by the camera, The elevator control system according to claim 2, wherein the determination unit determines that the elevator car can be raised or lowered in response to the detection unit detecting the worker at the deviation prevention position.

6. The detection unit has at least one second camera that captures an image of an area excluding the deviation suppression position and detects the worker based on the captured image, and based on the detection of the worker by the second camera, it detects the worker at a position other than the deviation suppression position. The elevator control system according to claim 2, wherein the determination unit determines that the elevator car can be raised or lowered in accordance with the detection unit's determination that the worker was not detected at a position other than the deviation prevention position.

7. The detection unit includes at least one load sensor that detects a load acting on the deviation prevention position, at least one multi-axis optical sensor that senses an area excluding the deviation prevention position and optically detects the worker, and at least one camera that captures an image of the area including the deviation prevention position and detects the worker based on the captured image. The detection unit detects the worker at the deviation prevention position based on the load detected by the load sensor showing a load distribution in the shape of a human foot and the detection of the worker by the camera, and detects the worker at a position other than the deviation prevention position based on the detection of the worker by the multi-axis optical sensor. The elevator control system according to claim 2, wherein the determination unit determines that the elevator car can be raised or lowered in accordance with the detection unit detecting the worker at the deviation prevention position and the detection unit not detecting the worker at a position other than the deviation prevention position.

8. A process for detecting workers performing tasks on the ceiling surface of an elevator car, When the operator gives an instruction to operate the elevator car, the process involves determining whether or not the elevator car can be raised or lowered based on the detected position of the operator, A step of controlling the raising and lowering of the elevator car based on the result of the above determination, An elevator control method comprising [a specific feature / feature].

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