Elevator monitoring methods

Abstract

Properly monitor the operating status of the elevator. [Solution] A signal is obtained depending on whether the elevator is operating normally (S401), and it is determined whether the elevator is operating normally based on the obtained signal (S402). If it is operating normally (S402: Yes), the elevator's operation history is stored (S403). If it is not operating normally (S402: No), notification information is generated (S404), and the generated notification information is sent to the management server computer (S405). In this way, the elevator's operating status can be monitored by sending notification information to the management server computer when the elevator is not operating normally.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a remote monitoring support device for remotely monitoring an elevator and a monitoring method for an elevator that monitors the operating state of the elevator.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, for an elevator installed in a multi-story building or the like, periodically or when a failure occurs in the elevator, an operator performs an inspection operation (diagnostic maintenance operation) accompanied by a diagnosis for maintenance to ensure the proper operation of the elevator.

[0003] Also conventionally, a communication function is provided in a control board (control device) that controls the operation of the elevator, and communication is performed between the control board and a management server computer installed at a remote location of the elevator, so that there is an elevator remote monitoring system that monitors the state of the elevator at a remote location of the elevator. As a result, the state of the elevator can be monitored at a remote location of the elevator without dispatching an operator to the site where the elevator is installed.

[0004] As a related technology, specifically, conventionally, by switching from the normal mode to the maintenance mode, transmission of information from the building to the monitoring center is prevented, and while switched to the maintenance mode, data on maintenance work performed by an operator is stored in a maintenance work data storage unit, and when switched to the normal mode, the maintenance work data stored in the maintenance work data storage unit is taken in, and based on the taken-in maintenance work data, a technique has been proposed for determining whether the maintenance work is appropriate (for example, refer to Patent Document 1 below).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

[0006] However, the conventional technology described above had a problem: in the case of older elevators, for example, which were not designed for remote monitoring at the time of installation, the control board of the elevator did not have communication capabilities, making it difficult to perform remote monitoring after the elevator was installed.

[0007] Therefore, the conventional technology described above had the problem that workers had to go to the site for each periodic diagnostic and maintenance work performed at the location where the elevator was installed, which was cumbersome. The conventional technology described above also had the problem that if a malfunction occurred in the elevator, the building manager or other person in charge of the building where the elevator was installed had to contact the workers, and each time a contact was made, the workers had to go to the site, which was cumbersome.

[0008] Furthermore, the conventional technologies described above had a problem in that if a malfunction occurred in an elevator that was not compatible with remote monitoring, the detection of the malfunction or the response to resolve the malfunction would be delayed.

[0009] Furthermore, when remotely monitoring existing elevators using the conventional technology described above, The control unit of the existing elevator must be replaced with a different control board that includes communication capabilities. In other words, when remotely monitoring an existing elevator using the conventional technology described above, the entire control board must be replaced, which makes the work extensive and cumbersome. Furthermore, in this case, the elevator cannot be used during the control board replacement work, which can disrupt the activities of users, especially in high-rise buildings.

[0010] This invention aims to provide a remote monitoring support device that can remotely monitor an elevator regardless of whether the elevator itself has a communication function, in order to solve the problems of the prior art described above.

[0011] Furthermore, in order to solve the problems of the prior art described above, this invention aims to provide a remote monitoring support device that can improve the reliability of elevators by remotely monitoring elevators regardless of whether or not the elevator itself has a communication function. Furthermore, this invention aims to provide an elevator monitoring method that appropriately monitors the operating status of the elevator. [Means for solving the problem]

[0012] To solve the above-mentioned problems and achieve the objective, the remote monitoring support device according to the present invention is a remote monitoring support device that communicates with a control board that controls the operation of an elevator and a management server computer, and is characterized by comprising: an acquisition means that is provided on the control board and inputs and outputs signals between the control board and the outside of the control board, and the output state of the signal changes depending on whether the operating state of the elevator is in a normal operating state or a wiring connected to the contact, and acquires the signal from the contact; a determination means that determines whether the operating state is in a normal operating state based on the output state of the signal acquired by the acquisition means; a generation means that generates notification information including information about the state of the elevator when the determination means determines that the operating state is not in a normal operating state; and a transmission means that transmits the notification information generated by the generation means to the management server computer.

[0013] Furthermore, the remote monitoring support device according to the present invention is characterized in that, in the above invention, the acquisition means uses the connection position with a relay whose operating state switches in accordance with a control signal that controls each part of the elevator, as a contact, and acquires the signal from the contact or the wiring connected to the contact, and the determination means determines that the operating state is not the normal operating state when the acquisition means acquires a signal that the relay outputs when the operating state of the elevator is not the normal operating state.

[0014] Furthermore, the remote monitoring support device according to the present invention is characterized in that, in the above invention, the acquisition means uses the connection position with a relay whose operating state switches depending on whether or not a predetermined voltage power supply is supplied to each part of the elevator as a contact, and acquires the signal from the contact or the wiring connected to the contact, and the determination means determines that the operating state is not the normal operating state when the acquisition means acquires a signal output by the relay when a predetermined voltage power supply is not supplied.

[0015] Furthermore, the remote monitoring support device according to the present invention is characterized in that, in the above invention, the acquisition means uses the connection point with a power supply circuit that supplies a predetermined voltage to each part of the elevator as a contact point, and acquires the signal from the contact point or the wiring connected to the contact point, and the determination means determines that the operating state is not a normal operating state when the acquisition means acquires an output state of zero because a predetermined voltage power supply is not supplied. Furthermore, the elevator monitoring method according to this invention is an elevator monitoring method for monitoring the operating state of an elevator, characterized in that it acquires signals output according to the operating state of the elevator, determines whether the operating state of the elevator is in a normal operating state based on the signals among the acquired signals that relate to whether or not the car has stopped at the floor to which the car is moving, and if it is determined that the operating state is not in a normal operating state, it generates notification information that includes the signal that was determined to be not in a normal operating state and information regarding the date and time when the signal was acquired, and transmits the generated notification information to a management server computer installed in a remote location far from where the elevator is installed and connected via a network. Furthermore, the elevator monitoring method according to this invention is an elevator monitoring method for monitoring the operating state of an elevator, characterized in that it acquires signals output according to the operating state of the elevator, and determines whether the operating state of the elevator is in a normal operating state based on the acquired signals relating to whether or not the car has stopped at the floor to which the car is moving, and the operation of the motor that opens and closes the doors at that floor. If it is determined that the operating state is in a normal operating state, it stores the elevator's operating history based on the acquired signals. Furthermore, if it is determined that the operating state is not in a normal operating state, it generates notification information and transmits the generated notification information to a management server computer installed in a remote location away from where the elevator is installed and connected via a network. [Effects of the Invention]

[0016] According to the remote monitoring support device of the present invention, information on the state of the elevator can be obtained at a remote location of the elevator via a management server computer. Therefore, the effect is achieved that the remote monitoring of the elevator can be performed regardless of the presence or absence of the communication function of the elevator itself. Further, the elevator monitoring method according to the present invention can appropriately monitor the operating state of the elevator.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0017] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing the system configuration of the remote monitoring system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing the hardware configuration of the remote monitoring support device that constitutes the remote monitoring system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the remote monitoring support device that constitutes the remote monitoring system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of the remote monitoring support device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a flowchart (Part 1) showing the processing procedure of the remote monitoring support device according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a flowchart (Part 2) showing the processing procedure of the remote monitoring support device according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing the system configuration of the remote monitoring system according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing the hardware configuration of the remote monitoring support device that constitutes the remote monitoring system according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the remote monitoring support device that constitutes the remote monitoring system according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention. [Figure 10]Figure 10 is a flowchart (part 1) showing the processing procedure of the remote monitoring support device according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a flowchart (part 2) showing the processing procedure of the remote monitoring support device according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is an explanatory diagram showing the system configuration of a remote monitoring system according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is an explanatory diagram showing the hardware configuration of a remote monitoring support device that constitutes a remote monitoring system according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of a remote monitoring support device that constitutes a remote monitoring system according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a flowchart (part 1) showing the processing procedure of the remote monitoring support device according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention. [Figure 16] Figure 16 is a flowchart (part 2) showing the processing procedure of the remote monitoring support device according to Embodiment 4 of this invention. [Figure 17] Figure 17 is an explanatory diagram showing the system configuration of the remote monitoring system according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention. [Figure 18] Figure 18 is an explanatory diagram showing the hardware configuration of a remote monitoring support device that constitutes a remote monitoring system according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention. [Figure 19] Figure 19 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of a remote monitoring support device that constitutes a remote monitoring system according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention. [Figure 20] Figure 20 is a flowchart (part 1) showing the processing procedure of the remote monitoring support device according to Embodiment 5 of this invention. [Figure 21] Figure 21 is a flowchart (part 2) showing the processing procedure of the remote monitoring support device according to Embodiment 5 of this invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0018] A preferred embodiment of the remote monitoring support device according to the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0019] <Embodiment 1> (System configuration of the remote monitoring system) First, the system configuration of an elevator remote monitoring system equipped with the remote monitoring support device of Embodiment 1 according to this invention will be described. Figure 1 is an explanatory diagram showing the system configuration of the remote monitoring system of Embodiment 1 according to this invention.

[0020] In Figure 1, the remote monitoring system 100 of Embodiment 1 according to the present invention can be configured, for example, with a control board (control device) 110, a remote monitoring support device 120, a management server computer 130, and a telephone 140. The remote monitoring system 100 monitors the operation of the elevator 101 using a management server computer 130 installed at a remote location from the elevator 101. The management server computer 130 monitors the operation of the elevator 101 via the remote monitoring support device 120.

[0021] The management server computer 130 is installed in a remote location, separate from the location where the elevator 101 to be monitored is installed. Specifically, the management server computer 130 can be installed, for example, at a maintenance company 150 responsible for the maintenance and management of the elevator 101.

[0022] Telephone 140 is installed, for example, at the maintenance company 150 where the management server computer 130 is installed. By installing the management server computer 130 and telephone 140 at the maintenance company 150, a person inside the elevator car 102 of elevator 101 can communicate directly with an operator at the maintenance company 150.

[0023] Elevator 101 is installed in multi-story buildings and is equipped with a car (roof car) 102 for carrying people and goods. There is one car 102 for each elevator 101. It is provided. The elevator car 102 is installed in a hoistway (not shown) that penetrates each floor of the building vertically. The elevator 101 can be implemented, for example, by a rope-type (traction-type) elevator.

[0024] The elevator 101 that can be monitored by the remote monitoring system 100 of Embodiment 1 of this invention is not limited to a rope-type elevator. In the remote monitoring system 100 of Embodiment 1 of this invention, instead of a rope-type elevator 101, or in addition to a rope-type elevator 101, for example, a hydraulic elevator 101 may also be monitored.

[0025] The elevator car 102 is equipped with an operation panel 102a that includes operation buttons such as destination floor buttons and door opening / closing buttons, and a display that shows the floor on which the elevator car 102 is located. The operation buttons may also include an emergency call button that is operated when communicating with an external manager or operator. The operation panel 102a provided in the elevator car 102 is equipped with a control board for the operation panel 102a and is connected to the control board 110 via the control board for the operation panel 102a. The elevator car 102 is also equipped with an intercom terminal device 102b. The intercom terminal device 102b is equipped with a call button, a microphone, and a speaker (all of which are not shown in the figure). The intercom terminal device 102b is connected to the remote monitoring support device 120.

[0026] The hoistway is equipped with a drive mechanism 104 that is involved in the raising and lowering operation of the elevator car 102. The drive mechanism 104 can be installed, for example, at the top of the hoistway. The drive mechanism 104 consists of a hoisting machine, pulleys, rope 104a, counterweight 104b, etc. The drive mechanism 104 is further equipped with an electromagnetic brake and a speed governor (these are not shown in the figures). The drive mechanism 104 can be easily realized using known technology, so its description is omitted. The drive mechanism 104 is not limited to being installed at the top of the hoistway. For example, in the case of a hydraulic elevator 101, the drive mechanism 104 may be installed at the bottom (pit) of the hoistway.

[0027] The cage 102 is connected to one end of the rope 104a, and the counterweight 104b is connected to the other end of the rope 104a. In the rope-type elevator 101, the rope 104a, to which the cage 102 and counterweight 104b are connected at both ends, is hung in a well-belt fashion on a pulley and a hoisting machine, and the hoisting machine is driven, using the frictional force (traction) between the rope 104a and the pulley to raise and lower the cage 102. Guide rails (not shown) are provided in the hoistway to guide the raising and lowering position of the cage 102.

[0028] Doors 105a and 102c are provided at positions (landings) 105 and the elevator car 102 corresponding to each floor level in the elevator shaft. The elevator car 102 is equipped with motors (not shown) that open and close the door 102c on the elevator car 102 and the door 105a on the landing 105. The motors that open and close the doors 105a and 102c are connected to a control board 110.

[0029] The door 105a at landing 105 is locked by a device called an interlock. When the motor is driven while elevator 101 has arrived at a stopping floor, the drive mechanism of the door 102c on the car 102 engages with the interlock, releasing the lock, and the door 102c on the car 102 and the door 105a on landing 105 open and close in conjunction.

[0030] Elevator 101 is equipped with door open / close sensors (not shown) that detect the opening and closing of doors 102c and 105a. The door open / close sensors detect whether doors 102c and 105a are open or closed. The output changes depending on the state. The door open / close sensor can be implemented, for example, by a microswitch or a photoelectric sensor. The door open / close sensor is connected to the control board 110 via wiring, and the signal output from the door open / close sensor is input to the control board 110 via said wiring.

[0031] Each landing 105 is equipped with an operation panel 105b that includes a landing call button (not shown in the illustration) and a display that shows the floor level where the elevator car 102 is located. Each operation panel 105b at each landing 105 is equipped with a control board for the operation panel 105b, and is connected to the control board 110 via the control board for the operation panel 105b.

[0032] The remote monitoring support device 120 can be mounted, for example, on the housing that houses the control board 110 of the elevator 101, or on the wall of the elevator shaft. The remote monitoring support device 120 includes a main control board 121 and an audio communication board 122. The main control board 121 is connected to the control board 110. The main control board 121 is also connected to the management server computer 130 via a network 160 such as the Internet. By connecting the main control board 121 and the management server computer 130 via the Internet rather than a public voice network 170 such as a telephone line, it is possible to prevent delays in understanding the status of the elevator 101 due to telephone line congestion in emergencies, and to take a quick response.

[0033] The voice communication board 122 is connected to the intercom terminal device 102b and the public voice network 170. Specifically, the voice communication board 122 can be implemented, for example, by a PHS (Personal Handy-phone System) board. The public voice network 170 includes a fixed telephone network (public switched telephone network) and a mobile phone network. The public voice network 170 is composed of multiple switches, not shown in the figures, such as subscriber line switches that accommodate telephone lines, relay switches that bundle subscriber line switches, and gateway switches that connect to the telephone networks of other operators. The public voice network 170 is a known technology, so no further explanation is given.

[0034] The main control board 121 may also communicate using the PHS board provided in the voice communication board 122. In this case, the remote monitoring support device 120 uses the PHS board for both voice communication and data communication. Since the elevator 101 is installed in a fixed location, using PHS for communication ensures communication quality and reduces communication costs.

[0035] The management server computer 130 can be implemented by a computer device such as a personal computer. An operating terminal device 131 may be connected to the management server computer 130. The management server computer 130 and the operating terminal device 131 may be installed in the same location or in different locations. There may be one operating terminal device 131 or multiple operating terminal devices. The operating terminal device 131 can be implemented by a computer device such as a personal computer equipped with input devices such as a keyboard and mouse, and a display. A printer (not shown in the figure) for outputting reports describing the status of the elevator 101 may also be connected to the operating terminal device 131.

[0036] In addition to the management server computer 130 and telephone 140, the maintenance company 150 may install a PBX (Private Branch eXchange, see reference numeral 205 in Figure 2). The telephone 140 is connected to the public voice network 170 via the PBX. In the remote monitoring system 100, a PBX may not be provided, and the telephone 140 may be connected directly to the public voice network 170.

[0037] (Hardware configuration of remote monitoring system 100) Next, the hardware configuration of the remote monitoring support device 120, which constitutes the remote monitoring system 100 of Embodiment 1 according to this invention, will be described. Figure 2 is an explanatory diagram showing the hardware configuration of the remote monitoring support device 120, which constitutes the remote monitoring system 100 of Embodiment 1 according to this invention.

[0038] In Figure 2, the control board 110 controls the operation of the elevator 101 by driving and controlling each component that makes up the elevator 101. The control board 110 outputs control signals to each component of the elevator 101 and controls the operation of the elevator 101 based on the signals output from each component.

[0039] The control board for the control panel 102a described above generates a call signal corresponding to the input operation when it receives an input operation from an elevator user or the like, and outputs the generated call signal to the control board 110. The control board 110 controls the operation of the elevator 101 by outputting a control signal to drive the drive mechanism 104 based on the call signal output from the control board for the control panel 102a.

[0040] Specifically, the control board 110 generates a control signal for the motor that raises and lowers the elevator car 102 based on a call signal output from the control board for the operation panel 102a, and outputs the generated control signal to the motor that raises and lowers the elevator car 102. As a result, the motor that raises and lowers the elevator car 102 rotates in the direction of raising or lowering the elevator car 102. The motor that raises and lowers the elevator car 102 is controlled, for example, using an inverter, and is driven and controlled by the control board 110 to stop rotating at the floor where the elevator car 102 is to be stopped.

[0041] The control board 110 obtains the rotational speed of each motor that operates according to the control signal it outputs to the motors that raise and lower the cage 102. The rotational speed of each motor can be obtained, for example, using an encoder. This allows the control board 110 to determine whether the motors that raise and lower the cage 102 operated normally according to the control signals it output to them.

[0042] Specifically, the control board 110 generates a control signal to operate the brakes to stop the elevator car 102 at a predetermined floor, based on a call signal output from the control board for the operation panel 102a, and outputs the generated control signal to the brakes. The brakes operate in accordance with the control signal output from the control board 110 to stop the elevator car 102's upward and downward movement and to stop the elevator car 102 at the predetermined floor. This allows the elevator car 102 to be stopped at the predetermined floor.

[0043] Each time the control board 110 outputs a control signal to the brake, it acquires an output signal from a brake sensor whose output changes according to the operation of the brake. The brake sensor can be implemented as, for example, a microswitch or a photoelectric sensor. This allows the control board 110 to determine whether the brake has operated normally according to the control signal it has output to the brake.

[0044] Specifically, the control board 110 generates control signals to open and close doors 102c and 105a on the floor where the elevator car 102 is stopped by the brakes, based on a call signal output from the control board for the operation panel 102a, and outputs the generated control signals to the motors that open and close the doors 102c of the elevator car 102 and the doors 105a of the landing 105. This allows the doors 102c and 105a to be opened and closed on the floor where the elevator car 102 is stopped. As described above, the motor that opens and closes door 105a is locked by a device called an interlock, so it will not operate if door 105a is not completely closed. stomach.

[0045] The control board 110 acquires the output signal from the door opening / closing sensor each time it outputs a control signal to the motors that open and close the doors 102c and 105a. This allows the control board 110 to determine whether the doors 102c and 105a have operated normally according to the control signal output to the motors that open and close the corresponding doors 102c and 105a.

[0046] Furthermore, the control board 110 outputs a control signal to the control board for the operation panel 102a, for example, which includes a floor signal indicating the floor on which the elevator car 102 is located. The floor on which the elevator car 102 is located can be identified, for example, based on output signals from sensors (not shown) provided on each floor in the elevator shaft. When the control board for the operation panel 102a receives a control signal including the floor signal, it controls the display based on the received control signal to show the floor on which the elevator car 102 is located and its direction of movement (whether it is rising or descending), etc.

[0047] The control board 110 outputs a control signal, including a floor signal, to the control board for operation panel 102a and the control board for operation panel 105b, for example, each time the position of the cage 102 changes. Alternatively, the control board 110 may output a control signal, including a floor signal, to the control board for operation panel 102a and the control board for operation panel 105b periodically, for example, regardless of the position of the cage 102.

[0048] The control board for control panel 105b, like the control board for control panel 102a, generates a call signal corresponding to each input operation to the landing call button by a user of elevator 101, and outputs the generated call signal to the control board 110. When a call signal is output from the control board for control panel 105b, the control board 110, in the same way as when a signal is output from the control board for control panel 102a, generates various control signals based on the signal output from the control board for control panel 105b, and controls the operation of elevator 101 by outputting the generated control signals to the corresponding parts.

[0049] Each time the control board 110 raises or lowers the elevator car 102 in response to signals output from the control panels 102a and 105b, it outputs a start signal indicating that each part has been activated to raise or lower the elevator car 102. For example, when moving from the first floor to the second floor, the control board 110 outputs a start signal once. Also, when moving from the first floor to the fifth floor without stopping along the way, the control board 110 outputs a start signal once. Furthermore, when moving from the first floor to the fifth floor after stopping at the third floor (opening or closing the door), the control board 110 outputs a start signal twice.

[0050] The control board 110 may calculate the distance traveled and the travel time of the elevator car 102 each time the car is raised or lowered. The distance traveled by the elevator car 102 can be calculated, for example, based on the number of starts. The travel time of the elevator car 102 can be calculated, for example, based on the floor signals mentioned above. Specifically, for example, if the elevator car 102 is on the first floor and receives a call from the control panel 105b at the landing 105 on the fourth floor, the elevator car 102 will move three floors from the first floor to the fourth floor.

[0051] The control board 110 includes a memory (not shown) and stores in the memory the number of times the activation signal has been output, i.e., the number of activations, each time an activation signal is output. In addition to or instead of the number of activations, the control board 110 may also store in the memory a history of the operation of each part driven during the lifting and lowering of the car 102 and the opening and closing of the doors 105a and 102c. Specifically, the control board 110 may store in the memory, for example, information such as the number of activations, the distance traveled by the car 102, the travel time of the car 102, and the number of times various relays operated during the lifting and lowering of the car 102 and the opening and closing of the doors 105a and 102c, as a history of operation.

[0052] Furthermore, the control board 110 determines whether doors 102c and 105a are open or closed based on the output values ​​of the door opening / closing sensors. Based on the control signals for opening and closing doors 102c and 105a that it outputs and the output values ​​of the door opening / closing sensors, the control board 110 can determine whether doors 102c and 105a have actually been opened or closed in accordance with the output of the control signals for opening and closing doors 102c and 105a.

[0053] Furthermore, the control board 110 outputs a signal indicating that the operating mode of the elevator 101 has been switched when the operating mode of the elevator 101 changes. Specifically, the control board 110 outputs a signal to notify the outside that the operating mode has been switched, or a signal to notify the operating mode after the switch (that it is an operating mode other than the normal operating mode), for example, when the operating mode of the elevator 101 has been switched from an operating mode other than the normal operating mode to the normal operating mode. Also, specifically, the control board 110 outputs a signal to notify the outside that the operating mode has been switched, or a signal to notify the operating mode after the switch (that it is the normal operating mode) (an alarm signal), for example, when the operating mode of the elevator 101 has been switched from an operating mode other than the normal operating mode to the normal operating mode.

[0054] Furthermore, the control board 110 outputs a signal (alarm signal) to notify the occurrence of a malfunction in the elevator 101 when it detects a malfunction. Specifically, for example, if the control board 110 outputs a control signal to open or close doors 105a and 102c, but detects that the corresponding doors 105a and 102c do not operate based on the output values ​​of the door opening / closing sensors, it outputs a signal (alarm signal) to notify the occurrence of a malfunction in the corresponding doors 105a and 102c in the elevator 101.

[0055] The control board 110 can output an alarm signal to the outside of the control board 110, for example, via wiring connecting the control board 110 to an external device. More specifically, the control board 110 can output an alarm signal to the outside of the control board 110, for example, via contacts connected to the control board 110 via wiring connecting the control board 110 to an external device.

[0056] The control board 110 may, for example, output an alarm signal to the outside of the control board 110 via a terminal provided on the control board 110. Specifically, the control board 110 can output an alarm signal to the outside of the control board 110 via a communication terminal that communicates with an external device of the elevator 101. Alternatively, specifically, the control board 110 may output an alarm signal to the outside of the control board 110 via a terminal provided on the control board 110 to which a diagnostic terminal device can be connected (hereinafter referred to as a "maintenance and inspection terminal").

[0057] When the call button on the intercom terminal device 102b is operated, it outputs a call signal to the remote monitoring support device 120 indicating that the operation has occurred. When the call signal output from the intercom terminal device 102b is input to the voice communication board 122, the remote monitoring support device 120 sends the call signal to the telephone 140 via the public voice network 170 or PBX 205. This enables voice communication (talk) between the intercom terminal device 102b and the telephone 140.

[0058] The intercom terminal device 102b outputs the voice signal input to the microphone to the remote monitoring support device 120 when a connection is established between the remote monitoring support device 120 (voice communication board 122) and the telephone 140 installed at the maintenance company 150. Furthermore, the intercom terminal device 102b also outputs the voice signal input to the microphone to the remote monitoring support device 120 (voice communication board 122) and the telephone 140. Once the connection is established, the audio signal output from the remote monitoring support device 120 is output through the speaker.

[0059] The remote monitoring support device 120 acquires signals (control signals) output from the control board 110 to each part of the elevator 101, generates notification information based on the acquired control signals, and transmits the generated notification information to the management server computer 130. The notification information includes information about the status of the elevator 101 and identification information of the elevator 101 that is the source of the notification information.

[0060] Information regarding the status of elevator 101 includes, for example, the direction of movement of the car 102, the floor to which the car 102 will move, whether or not the car 102 has stopped at the destination floor, and whether or not the motors that open and close the doors 105a and 102c are operating. Information regarding the status of elevator 101 also includes, for example, the floor to which the car 102 is currently located, and whether or not various safety devices are operating.

[0061] The identification information for elevator 101 may be, for example, the serial number of elevator 101, a number set based on the installation location (address, etc.) of elevator 101, or a number arbitrarily set by a worker performing maintenance and inspection of elevator 101. The identification information for elevator 101 can be composed of a predetermined number of digits and letters such as the alphabet.

[0062] The main control board 121 of the remote monitoring support device 120 can be configured, for example, with a relay board 201, a monitoring and control board 202, a memory 203, and a communication I / F (interface) 204. The remote monitoring support device 120 acquires control signals output from the control board 110 via the relay board 201 on the main control board 121.

[0063] The remote monitoring support device 120 connects, for example, a relay provided on the control board 110 to a relay board 201, and acquires the output from the relay, whose output (output state) changes in accordance with the control signal output from the control board 110, on the main control board 121. In this case, the remote monitoring support device 120 can acquire the control signal output from the control board 110 from the relay via the relay board 201 on the main control board 121.

[0064] Relays are provided corresponding to each part controlled by the control board 110, and their output state changes (for example, ON / OFF) according to the state of each part of the elevator 101. For example, electromagnetic relays can be used, which open and close by physically moving contacts with an electromagnet. The contacts of the electromagnetic relay may be, for example, make contacts (contacts that close when current flows) or break contacts (contacts that open when current flows). The contacts of the electromagnetic relay may also be, for example, transfer contacts (multiple contacts that switch by flowing current) or ratchet contacts (contacts that switch open and closed each time current flows). In addition, for example, solid-state relays or programmable relays may be used.

[0065] The remote monitoring support device 120 may, for example, be connected to wiring connected to a relay, and the output from said wiring may be acquired by the main control board 121. In this case as well, the remote monitoring support device 120 can acquire the control signals output from the control board 110 from the relay (wiring connected to the relay) via the relay board 201 to the main control board 121.

[0066] Specifically, the remote monitoring support device 120 connects the control board 110 and the relay to the feet supporting the relay (wiring connecting the control board 110 and the relay), for example, the control board 110 and the relay board A contact point can be provided with 201, and the control board 110 can be connected via this contact point. The contact point can be provided on the signal pin (wiring connecting the control board 110 and the relay) that inputs signals from the control board 110 to the relay. This contact point may also be provided on the signal pin (wiring connecting the control board 110 and the relay) that outputs signals from the relay to the control board 110.

[0067] Furthermore, the remote monitoring support device 120 can, for example, provide contacts between the control board 110 and the relay board 201 on the pins (wiring connecting the control board 110 and the IC chip) of the IC chip provided on the control board 110 corresponding to each part of the elevator 101, and connect to the control board 110 via these contacts. In this case, the contacts may be provided on the pins for signals input from the control board 110 to the IC chip (wiring connecting the control board 110 and the IC chip), or on the pins for signals output from the IC chip to the control board 110 (wiring connecting the control board 110 and the IC chip).

[0068] In the control board 110, LEDs are provided that light up or turn off in conjunction with the operation of each part of the elevator 101, so that workers can visually check the operating status of each part of the elevator 101. In this case, the remote monitoring support device 120 may be equipped with, for example, a photoelectric sensor (not shown) whose output changes according to the lighting / extinguishing of the LEDs, and the photoelectric sensor is connected to the relay board 201. The output value of the photoelectric sensor is acquired by the main control board 121 via the relay board 201, thereby acquiring the control signal output from the control board 110.

[0069] Furthermore, the relay board 201 in the remote monitoring support device 120 can be connected, for example, to a contact (terminal) on the control board 110 where wiring connecting the control board 110 to each part that serves as the output destination for control signals is connected. This allows the remote monitoring support device 120 to acquire control signals from the contact (terminal) on the control board 110 via the relay board 201. In this case, the contact (terminal) is not limited to one provided on the control board 110, but may be connected to the relay board 201 in the remote monitoring support device 120 at some point along the wiring connecting the control board 110 to each part that serves as the output destination for control signals.

[0070] Alternatively, the relay board 201 in the remote monitoring support device 120 can be connected to wiring (branch lines) that branch off the wiring connecting the control board 110 and the various parts to which the control signals from the control board 110 are output. This allows the remote monitoring support device 120 to acquire control signals from the branch lines via the relay board 201. A branch connector may be provided at the branching point between the wiring connecting the various parts of the elevator 101 and the control board 110 and the branch lines, which branches the control signals output from the control board 110 in two directions. This allows the remote monitoring support device 120 to be easily connected to the control board 110 via the branch connector.

[0071] The relay board 201 analyzes the input signal and outputs the analysis result to the monitoring and control board 202. The monitoring and control board 202 generates notification information based on the analysis result output from the relay board 201 and transmits the generated notification information to the management server computer 130 via the communication interface 204. The monitoring and control board 202 also stores the analysis result output from the relay board 201 in the memory 203. The monitoring and control board 202 may also directly store the signal received by the relay board 201 in the memory 203.

[0072] Memory 203 can be implemented using a non-volatile storage medium that retains stored information even when the power supply is cut off. Specifically, memory 203 can be, for example, flash memory, EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), or EPROM (Erasable This can be achieved using methods such as Programmable Read-Only Memory.

[0073] The various signals output from the control board 110 differ depending on the model of the elevator 101. The relay board 201 converts the various signals output from the control board 110 into a format that the monitoring control board 202 can process during analysis. The remote monitoring support device 120 analyzes the signals received by the relay board 201 and converts them into a format that the monitoring control board 202 can process, thereby enabling remote monitoring of the elevator 101 regardless of the model of the elevator 101.

[0074] Furthermore, the remote monitoring support device 120 outputs various operation command signals to the control board 110 via a relay board 201 controlled by the monitoring control board 202 on the main control board 121. The remote monitoring support device 120 outputs operation command signals when driving and controlling each part of the elevator 101 via the control board 110. Operation command signals can be realized by signals (such as call signals) similar to the signals output from the control panel 102a or control panel 105b when an input operation instructing movement to a predetermined floor is received at the control panel 102a or control panel 105b. Specifically, operation command signals include signals to move the elevator car 102 of the elevator 101 to a predetermined floor, to stop the moved car 102 at the corresponding floor, and to open and close the doors 102c of the car 102 and the doors 105a of the landing 105 at the floor where it is stopped.

[0075] When the control board 110 receives an operation command signal output from the main control board 121, it generates various control signals based on the received operation command signal and outputs the generated control signals to each part of the elevator 101. The main control board 121 inputs the various operation command signals output from the monitoring control board 202 via the relay board 201 to the control board 110, for example, via maintenance and inspection terminals (not shown) provided by the elevator 101.

[0076] Maintenance terminals are provided on the control board 110. Alternatively, maintenance terminals may be electrically connected to the input terminals of the control board 110 and be separate from the control board 110. Maintenance terminals are provided, for example, for connecting terminal devices (maintenance diagnostic terminals) used for maintenance work performed by workers at the site where the elevator 101 is installed. Maintenance terminals are not limited to elevators 101 installed for remote monitoring purposes, and are generally provided in a wide range of elevators 101, regardless of whether they are existing, newly installed, or old.

[0077] When connecting the relay board 201 and the control board 110 via a maintenance terminal, the remote monitoring support device 120 may be provided with a connection terminal (not shown) that can be disconnected from the maintenance terminal. In such a remote monitoring support device 120, for example, the connection terminal and the maintenance terminal can be connected by inserting and fitting the connection terminal into the maintenance terminal.

[0078] Furthermore, the remote monitoring support device 120 receives various instruction signals transmitted from the management server computer 130 via the communication I / F 204. The management server computer 130 outputs an instruction signal to the remote monitoring support device 120 when it receives an input operation from an operator at the maintenance company 150.

[0079] Specifically, the management server computer 130, in response to input operations received by the management server computer 130, for example, performs diagnostic actions in the elevator 101. The system sends an instruction signal (notification information transmission instruction) that instructs the system to send notification information regarding the results of the operation. In this case, the management server computer 130 sends an instruction to the elevator 101 to perform a diagnostic operation, in addition to the notification information transmission instruction.

[0080] The diagnostic operation is performed by having the control board 110 output signals to each part of the elevator 101 to operate each part in a predetermined order, and then having the control board 110 output signals indicating whether each part operated normally according to the output signals. The management server computer 130 may periodically, that is, after a predetermined time has elapsed since the output of a diagnostic instruction (at predetermined intervals such as every month), output the next diagnostic instruction.

[0081] Specifically, the management server computer 130 may, for example, send an instruction signal (notification information transmission instruction) instructing the control board 110 to transmit notification information regarding the history of operation stored in the control board 110, either in response to an input operation received by the management server computer 130 or periodically thereafter. The notification information regarding the history of operation can be realized by information such as the number of starts, the distance traveled by the car 102, the travel time of the car 102, and the number of times various relays operated during the lifting and lowering of the car 102 or the opening and closing of the doors 105a and 102c.

[0082] When the remote monitoring support device 120 receives various instruction signals transmitted from the management server computer 130, it generates the above-mentioned operation command signals based on the received instruction signals and outputs the generated operation command signals to the control board 110. Furthermore, when the remote monitoring support device 120 receives a signal (such as a control signal) output from the control board 110 as a result of outputting the operation command signals based on the various instruction signals transmitted from the management server computer 130, it generates response information based on that signal and outputs the generated response information to the management server computer 130.

[0083] The management server computer 130 generates report information based on response information transmitted from the remote monitoring support device 120 in response to various instruction signals transmitted to the remote monitoring support device 120. For example, the management server computer 130 generates report information based on notification information received from the remote monitoring support device 120 as a result of transmitting diagnostic instructions and notification information transmission instructions. In this case, the management server computer 130 generates report information including, for example, information regarding the mileage traveled and the number of starts of the elevator 101.

[0084] Furthermore, the management server computer 130 has a function to issue reports (not shown in the diagram) based on the generated report information. Reports can be issued, for example, each time the elevator 101 is made to perform a diagnostic operation, that is, each time response information is received in response to an instruction signal (diagnostic instruction) that instructs the execution of a diagnostic operation transmitted to the remote monitoring support device 120. Specifically, the management server computer 130 generates print information for printing the generated report information on a recording medium such as paper, based on the generated report information, and outputs the generated print information to the operation terminal device 131 connected to the management server computer 130. When the operation terminal device 131 receives the print information, it can issue the report by driving and controlling the printer connected to the operation terminal device 131.

[0085] (Functional configuration of remote monitoring system 100) Next, the functional configuration of the remote monitoring system 100 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention will be described. Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the remote monitoring support device 120 that constitutes the remote monitoring system 100 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0086] (Functional configuration of the remote monitoring support device 120) In Figure 3, each function of the remote monitoring support device 120 for the elevator 101 according to Embodiment 1 of this invention is realized by the receiving unit 301, the storage unit 302, the generation unit 303, the output unit 304, the acquisition unit 305, the judgment unit 306, and the transmission unit 307. The functions of the receiving unit 301, the storage unit 302, the generation unit 303, the output unit 304, the acquisition unit 305, the judgment unit 306, and the transmission unit 307 of the remote monitoring support device 120 for the elevator 101 according to Embodiment 1 of this invention can be realized by the respective parts of the remote monitoring support device 120.

[0087] The receiving unit 301 receives various instruction signals transmitted from the management server computer 130. For example, the receiving unit 301 receives a transmission instruction for notification information transmitted from the management server computer 130. When the receiving unit 301 receives a diagnostic instruction, the storage unit 302 stores information regarding the date and time the diagnostic instruction was received. This makes it possible to periodically monitor the operation of the elevator 101 without communicating with the management server computer 130.

[0088] When the receiving unit 301 receives a transmission instruction, the generation unit 303 generates an operation command signal that causes the elevator 101 to perform the above-mentioned diagnostic operation. The generation unit 303 generates an operation command signal that has been converted by the relay board 201 into a format that the control board 110 can analyze. When the receiving unit 301 receives a transmission instruction, the generation unit 303 generates an operation command signal that includes an instruction to output signals that cause each part of the elevator 101 to operate in a predetermined order.

[0089] Specifically, the generation unit 303 generates operation command signals that cause the control board 110 to drive and control, for example, the motor that raises and lowers the elevator car 102 of the elevator 101, the brake that stops the car 102 while it is being raised or lowered, and the motors that open and close the doors 105a and 102c of the landing 105 and the car 102.

[0090] When the receiving unit 301 receives a transmission instruction, the output unit 304 outputs an operation command signal to the control board 110 that causes the elevator 101 to perform the above-mentioned diagnostic operation. In this embodiment 1, the output unit 304 outputs the operation command signal generated by the generation unit 303 to the control board 110.

[0091] The output unit 304 outputs an operation command signal via a terminal to which a portable terminal device (maintenance diagnostic terminal, not shown) is connected during inspection work performed on-site by a worker. The operation command signal output by the output unit 304 is converted by the relay board 201 into a format that the control board 110 can analyze, so that the control board 110 can perform a diagnostic operation, just as if a signal to perform a diagnostic operation were directly input from the maintenance diagnostic terminal.

[0092] The output unit 304 may, for example, output an operation command signal to the control board 110 via wiring that connects each part of the elevator 101 to the control board 110. In this case, specifically, the output unit 304 can output an operation command signal to the control board 110 via wiring that allows each part of the elevator 101 to output signals to the control board 110.

[0093] The output unit 304 may output an operation command signal to execute the next diagnostic operation not only when the receiving unit 301 receives a transmission instruction, but also when a predetermined time has elapsed since outputting an operation command signal to the control board 110. Specifically, the output unit 304 may, for example, output an operation command signal to execute the next diagnostic operation when one month has elapsed since outputting an instruction to execute a diagnostic operation, based on the date and time information stored in the storage unit 302.

[0094] This allows the control board 110 to periodically output an operation command signal to perform a diagnostic operation without communicating with the management server computer 130. This reduces the burden on communication while allowing the elevator 101 to perform diagnostic operations periodically.

[0095] The acquisition unit 305 acquires a signal output from the control board 110 to the outside of the control board 110. The acquisition unit 305 acquires the signal from a contact provided on the control board 110 that inputs and outputs signals between the control board 110 and the outside of the control board 110, the contact whose signal output state changes depending on whether the operating state of the elevator 101 is in a normal operating state or from wiring connected to the contact. The contact may be realized by a terminal in which a plurality of contacts are arranged, or by a connector that allows insertion and removal of the corresponding connector.

[0096] Specifically, the acquisition unit 305 uses, for example, the connection point to a relay whose operating state switches in response to a control signal that controls each part of the elevator 101, as a contact, and acquires a signal from that contact or the wiring connected to that contact. Alternatively, specifically, the acquisition unit 305 may use, for example, the connection point to a relay whose operating state switches in response to a signal input to the control board 110 from each part of the elevator 101, as a contact, and acquire a signal from that contact or the wiring connected to that contact. The output of the relay changes as the operating state of the elevator 101 switches. The output of the relay changes according to the state of each part of the elevator 101, whose operating state switches in response to a control signal.

[0097] More specifically, such a relay can be implemented, for example, by a relay provided in a safety circuit that determines whether the elevator 101 is in a state where it can operate safely, based on signals output from various parts of the elevator 101. The output of the relay provided in the safety circuit changes depending on whether the elevator 101 is in a state where it can operate safely (normal operating state) or in a state where it cannot operate safely (not in a normal operating state).

[0098] The safety circuit includes various switches, such as a stop switch operated by a worker performing maintenance on the elevator 101 to stop its operation during the maintenance work, a limit switch that operates to stop the car 102 if it moves beyond its normal range of motion, and a switch that operates when the speed of the car 102 being controlled by the speed governor exceeds a specified speed. The relays in the safety circuit are connected in series with the various switches which are connected in series with each other, and the output changes when any one of the switches is activated.

[0099] The elevator 101 is not in a state of normal operation unless the safety circuit is activated. The elevator 101, which is controlled by the control board 110, cannot operate if a part of the control board 110 is not functioning due to a malfunction or other reason, even if the various switches constituting the safety circuit are not activated. If a part of the control board 110 is not functioning due to a malfunction or other reason, the control board 110 outputs a signal to each part of the elevator 101 indicating that the control board 110 is stopped.

[0100] The display unit on the control panel 105b, upon receiving a signal indicating that the control board 110 is stopped, will, for example, display a message such as "Stopped," "Fault," or "Please call an attendant" based on that signal. The display unit on the control panel 105b may also be configured to stop displaying anything (not display anything on the screen) upon receiving a signal indicating that the control board 110 is stopped.

[0101] Furthermore, such a relay can be implemented, for example, by a relay provided in a non-starting circuit that determines whether the elevator 101 is in a state where it can be started based on signals output from various parts of the elevator 101. The output of the relay provided in the non-starting circuit changes depending on whether the elevator 101 is in a state where it can be started or a state where it cannot be started.

[0102] Furthermore, such relays can be implemented, for example, by relays in the elevator 101 whose output state changes in response to signals input and output to the control panel 105b of the landing 105 on each floor, or by relays whose output state changes in response to signals input and output to the control panel 102a of the elevator car 102. Specifically, such relays can be implemented, for example, by relays in door open / close sensors that detect the opening and closing of doors 102c and 105a, and whose output state changes in response to the open / closed state of doors 102c and 105a.

[0103] More specifically, the acquisition unit 305 may, for example, use a connection point to a relay whose operating state switches depending on whether or not a predetermined voltage power supply is supplied to each part of the elevator 101 as a contact, and acquire a signal from that contact or the wiring connected to that contact. More specifically, such a relay can be realized, for example, by a relay provided in a 100V power supply circuit that supplies a 100V power supply to components of the elevator 101 that operate when a 100V power supply is supplied.

[0104] The relay provided in the 100V power supply circuit turns ON when a 100V power supply is provided to the respective parts, and turns OFF when a 100V power supply is not provided to the respective parts. In this case, the acquisition unit 305 uses the connection point with the relay provided in the 100V power supply circuit as a contact and acquires a signal from that contact.

[0105] Furthermore, the acquisition unit 305 may acquire a signal from the connection point with the wiring connected to the 100V power supply circuit. In this case, the signal (voltage) acquired by the acquisition unit 305 will change depending on whether or not a 100V power supply is supplied to the respective parts.

[0106] The specified voltage is not limited to 100V, but may be, for example, 200V. In this case, the acquisition unit 305 uses the connection point with a relay provided in a 200V power supply circuit that applies a voltage of 200V as a contact point, and acquires a signal from that contact point or the wiring connected to that contact point. The acquisition unit 305 is not limited to acquiring a signal from a single contact point, but may also use the connection points with multiple relays as contact points, for example, the connection point with a relay provided in a 100V power supply circuit and the connection point with a relay provided in a 200V power supply circuit, or the relay corresponding to the control panel 105b of the landing 105 on each floor and the relay corresponding to the control panel 102a of the elevator car 102, and acquire a signal from those contact points.

[0107] Furthermore, the acquisition unit 305 acquires control signals output from the control board 110 to each part of the elevator 101 in response to an operation command signal output by the output unit 304 that causes a diagnostic operation to be performed. The acquisition unit 305 also acquires control signals output from the control board 110 when a predetermined input operation is received at the operation panel 105b of the landing 105 on each floor and the operation panel 102a of the elevator car 102 on each floor. The acquisition unit 305 also acquires floor signals output from the control board 110 to the operation panel 105b of the landing 105 on each floor and the operation panel 102a of the elevator car 102 on each floor.

[0108] Furthermore, the acquisition unit 305 acquires an alarm signal output from the control board 110, for example, when it detects that an earthquake of a predetermined seismic intensity or higher has occurred and the operating mode of the elevator 101 switches from the normal operating mode to the earthquake operating mode. In addition, the acquisition unit 305 outputs an alarm signal to notify the outside of the occurrence of a malfunction in the elevator 101, for example, when a control signal is output to the motor that raises and lowers the elevator car 102 of the elevator 101, but the floor signal indicating the position of the car 102 does not switch.

[0109] The acquisition unit 305 may acquire control signals via relays whose output changes according to the state of each part of the elevator 101, or it may acquire control signals via LEDs that light up or turn off in conjunction with the operation of each part of the elevator 101. Furthermore, the acquisition unit 305 may acquire control signals via, for example, pins (connection wiring) that fix relays or LEDs to the control board 110.

[0110] The acquisition unit 305 may acquire control signals, for example, via a terminal to which a maintenance and diagnostic terminal can be connected. Alternatively, the acquisition unit 305 may acquire control signals, for example, at the connection point between the control board 110 and the wiring (or branch connector) connected to each part that will be the output destination of the control signals.

[0111] The determination unit 306 determines whether the operating state of the elevator 101 is in a normal operating state based on the output state of the signal acquired by the acquisition unit 305. The determination unit 306 determines that the elevator 101 is in a state in which it can operate safely, for example, when each part of the elevator 101 is able to operate in response to the operation of the operation buttons of the car 102 or the landing call buttons. The determination unit 306 also determines that if any part of the elevator 101 is unable to operate in response to the operation of the operation buttons of the car 102 or the landing call buttons, it is in a state in which it cannot operate safely, i.e., not in a normal operating state.

[0112] For example, if the connection point to a relay whose output changes in response to a control signal output from the control board 110 to the outside of the control board 110 is set as a contact, the determination unit 306 will determine that the elevator 101 is not in a normal operating state if it obtains a signal output by the relay while the elevator 101 is not in a normal operating state. More specifically, the determination unit 306 will determine that the elevator 101 is not in a normal operating state if, for example, a signal indicating that the emergency call button has been operated is input to the control board 110 from the control panel 102a of the car 102, or if signals are output from the control board 110 to various parts of the elevator 101 in response to the operation of the emergency call button.

[0113] Furthermore, for example, when the acquisition unit 305 detects that an earthquake of a predetermined seismic intensity or higher has occurred and the operating mode of the elevator 101 has switched from the normal operating mode to the earthquake operating mode, and acquires an alarm signal output from the control board 110, the determination unit 306 may determine that the operating state of the elevator 101 is not the normal operating state when it acquires the alarm signal.

[0114] Furthermore, for example, when acquiring a signal from the contacts of a relay provided in a 100V power supply circuit or a 200V power supply circuit, if the relay is activated because power is not supplied to the 100V power supply circuit or the 200V power supply circuit due to a power outage or the 100V power supply circuit or the 200V power supply circuit is not supplying power of the predetermined voltage to the relevant parts, the determination unit 306 may determine that the operating state of the elevator 101 is not the normal operating state. Also, for example, the connection point to the 100V power supply circuit or the 200V power supply circuit that supplies power of a predetermined voltage such as 100V or 200V, or the wiring connected to these circuits When acquiring a signal, the determination unit 306 may determine the operating state of the elevator 101 depending on whether or not there is a signal (voltage) acquired by the acquisition unit 305. In this case, the determination unit 306 can determine that the operating state of the elevator 101 is not the normal operating state if there is no signal (voltage) acquired by the acquisition unit 305, that is, if the level of the acquired signal (voltage) is zero.

[0115] The generation unit 303 generates notification information including information about the state of the elevator 101 when the determination unit 306 determines that the operating state of the elevator 101 is not in a normal operating state. The generation unit 303 generates notification information including information about the state of the elevator 101 each time the determination unit 306 determines that the operating state of the elevator 101 is not in a normal operating state.

[0116] Furthermore, the generation unit 303 may generate notification information including information about the state of the elevator 101 based on the signals acquired by the acquisition unit 305. Specifically, in this case, the generation unit 303 may generate notification information indicating that the elevator 101 is operating normally, for example, based on control signals output from the control board 110. The generation unit 303 may also generate notification information indicating the floor on which the elevator car 102 of the elevator 101 is currently located, for example, based on floor signals output from the control board 110. The generation unit 303 may also generate notification information indicating that the current operating mode of the elevator 101 has switched or that a malfunction has occurred in the elevator 101, for example, based on alarm signals output from the control board 110.

[0117] The generation unit 303 may generate notification information each time the acquisition unit 305 acquires a signal. Alternatively, the generation unit 303 may generate notification information when, for example, the acquisition unit 305 acquires a specific signal. Specifically, the generation unit 303 may generate notification information when, for example, the acquisition unit 305 acquires an alarm signal indicating that the current operating mode of the elevator 101 has switched.

[0118] The transmitting unit 307 transmits the notification information generated by the generation unit 303 to the management server computer 130. The transmitting unit 307 transmits the notification information to the management server computer 130 each time the generation unit 303 generates notification information. Alternatively, the transmitting unit 307 may transmit the notification information to the management server computer 130 when the generation unit 303 generates specific notification information. Specifically, for example, when the generation unit 303 generates notification information based on an alarm signal indicating that the current operating mode of the elevator 101 has switched, the transmitting unit 307 may transmit the notification information to the management server computer 130.

[0119] (Processing procedure of the remote monitoring support device 120) Figure 4 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of the remote monitoring support device 120 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. In the flowchart of Figure 4, first, the system waits until it can acquire a signal output from the control board 110 to the outside of the control board 110 (Step S401: No).

[0120] In step S401, if a signal output from the control board 110 is acquired (step S401: Yes), it is determined based on the acquired signal whether the elevator 101 is in a normal operating state or not (step S402). In step S402, if the elevator 101 is in a normal operating state (step S402: Yes), the operation history of the elevator 101 is stored based on the acquired signal (step S403), and the series of processes is terminated.

[0121] In step S403, information such as the direction of movement of the car 102, the floor to which the car 102 will move, whether or not the car 102 has stopped at the destination floor, whether or not the motors that open and close the doors 105a and 102c are operating, the floor to which the car 102 is currently located, and whether or not various safety devices are operating are stored. In step S403, the acquired signals may be stored, and the acquired signals may be stored in association with information regarding the date and time the signals were acquired.

[0122] The operation history stored in step S403 is used, for example, to generate notification information based on the stored operation history during remote diagnosis of elevator 101. Remote diagnosis of elevator 101 is started as appropriate, for example, when a notification information transmission instruction is received from the management server computer 130, or when a predetermined time has elapsed since the last remote diagnosis was performed.

[0123] On the other hand, if the operating state of the elevator 101 is not in the normal operating state in step S402 (step S402: No), notification information is generated based on the signal acquired in step S401: Yes (step S404). In step S404, notification information is generated that indicates the operating state of the elevator 101 is not in the normal operating state, based on the signal acquired in step S401: Yes. Specifically, in step S404, notification information is generated that includes, for example, the signal that was determined to be not in the normal operating state and information regarding the date and time the signal was acquired.

[0124] Subsequently, the notification information generated in step S404 is sent to the management server computer 130 (step S405), and the series of processes is terminated. In step S405, the notification information generated in step S404 is sent from the communication I / F 204 to the management server computer 130 via the network 160, such as the Internet.

[0125] As described above, the remote monitoring support device 120 of this embodiment 1 acquires a signal from a contact provided on the control board 110 that inputs and outputs signals between the control board 110 and the control board 110, and whose signal output state changes depending on whether the elevator 101 is in a normal operating state or from wiring connected to the contact, and determines whether the operating state is in a normal operating state based on the output state of the acquired signal. If it is determined that the elevator 101 is not in a normal operating state, it generates notification information including information about the state of the elevator 101 and transmits the generated notification information to the management server computer 130.

[0126] According to the remote monitoring support device 120 of this embodiment 1, based on the signal output from the control board 110 to the outside of the control board 110, it is determined whether the operating state of the elevator 101 is in a normal operating state each time the signal is output from the control board 110. If the operating state of the elevator 101 is not in a normal operating state, the operator can be notified via the management server computer 130 that the operating state of the elevator 101 is not in a normal operating state.

[0127] This allows the operator to quickly recognize if the elevator 101 is not operating normally, and to take prompt action to maintain the elevator 101 in good condition, such as arranging for inspection personnel as needed. This improves the reliability of the elevator 101, ensures the safety of users, and allows users to use the elevator 101 with peace of mind.

[0128] The control board 110 that controls the operation of elevator 101 is generally elevator 1 The control board 110 consists of a circuit configuration developed independently by the manufacturer and is controlled by the manufacturer's proprietary control program. Generally, the circuit configuration and control program for the control board 110 are not publicly disclosed, and no company other than the manufacturer or its affiliated companies can know their contents. However, according to the remote monitoring support device 120 of this embodiment 1, it can determine whether the operating state of the elevator 101 is in a normal operating state without directly connecting to the control board 110 and analyzing the circuit configuration and control program of the control board. If the operating state of the elevator 101 is not in a normal operating state, it can inform the operator that the operating state of the elevator 101 is not in a normal operating state via the management server computer 130.

[0129] This allows operators to quickly recognize when elevator 101 is not operating normally and to take prompt action to maintain elevator 101 in good condition, such as arranging for inspection personnel as needed. This enables so-called "independent elevator maintenance service companies," separate from the manufacturer or its affiliated maintenance service companies, to monitor the operating status of elevator 101 remotely, thereby improving the reliability of elevator 101, ensuring user safety, and allowing users to use elevator 101 with peace of mind.

[0130] Furthermore, according to the remote monitoring support device 120 of this embodiment 1, remote monitoring of the elevator 101 can be performed regardless of whether the elevator 101 itself has a communication function, thereby improving the reliability of the elevator 101, ensuring the safety of users, and allowing users to use the elevator 101 with peace of mind.

[0131] Furthermore, the remote monitoring support device 120 of this embodiment 1 is characterized in that it uses the connection point with a relay whose operating state switches in accordance with control signals output to each part of the elevator 101, as a contact, and determines whether the operating state of the elevator 101 is in a normal operating state or not based on a signal obtained from the contact or the wiring connected to the contact.

[0132] According to the remote monitoring support device 120 of this embodiment 1, it is possible to determine whether the elevator 101 is operating in a normal operating state or not without separately providing a dedicated terminal on the control board for outputting information regarding the status of the elevator 101, or separately incorporating a program for generating information regarding the status of the elevator 101 into the control board. As a result, remote monitoring of the elevator 101 can be performed regardless of the model of the elevator 101, thereby improving the reliability of the elevator 101, ensuring the safety of users, and allowing users to use the elevator 101 with peace of mind.

[0133] Furthermore, the remote monitoring support device 120 of this embodiment 1 is characterized in that it uses the connection point to a relay whose operating state switches depending on whether or not a predetermined voltage power supply is supplied to each part of the elevator 101 as a contact, and determines whether or not the operating state of the elevator 101 is in a normal operating state based on a signal obtained from the contact or the wiring connected to the contact.

[0134] This allows for the determination of whether the elevator 101 is operating normally or not, without requiring the control board to separately provide a dedicated terminal for outputting information regarding the elevator 101's status, or to separately incorporate a program into the control board to generate information regarding the elevator 101's status. This enables remote monitoring of the elevator 101 regardless of the model, thereby improving the reliability of the elevator 101, ensuring the safety of users, and providing users with peace of mind. This allows the use of elevator 101.

[0135] Furthermore, the remote monitoring support device 120 of this embodiment 1 is characterized by using the connection point with the power supply circuit that supplies a predetermined voltage to each part of the elevator 101 as a contact point, and determining whether the operating state of the elevator 101 is in a normal operating state or not depending on the presence or absence of voltage at the contact point or the wiring connected to the contact point.

[0136] This allows for the determination of whether the elevator 101 is operating normally or not, without requiring the control board to separately provide a dedicated terminal for outputting information regarding the elevator 101's status, or to separately incorporate a program into the control board to generate information regarding the elevator 101's status. This enables remote monitoring of the elevator 101 regardless of its model, thereby improving the reliability of the elevator 101, ensuring user safety, and allowing users to use the elevator 101 with peace of mind.

[0137] <Embodiment 2> Next, a remote monitoring system for an elevator according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention will be described. In Embodiment 2, the same parts as those in Embodiment 1 described above are indicated by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0138] (Functional configuration of the remote monitoring support device 120) Next, the functional configuration of the remote monitoring support device 120 for the elevator 101 according to Embodiment 2 of this invention will be described. Each function of the remote monitoring support device 120 for the elevator 101 according to Embodiment 2 of this invention is realized by a receiving unit 301, a storage unit 302, a generation unit 303, an output unit 304, an acquisition unit 305, a determination unit 306, and a transmission unit 307.

[0139] The acquisition unit 305 acquires signals output from the control board 110 to the outside of the control board 110. For example, the acquisition unit 305 acquires control signals output from the control board 110 to each part of the elevator 101 in response to an operation command signal output by the output unit 304 that causes a diagnostic operation to be performed.

[0140] Furthermore, the acquisition unit 305 acquires control signals output from the control board 110 when a predetermined input operation is received at the control panel 105b of the landing 105 on each floor and the control panel 102a of the elevator car 102 of the elevator 101. In addition, the acquisition unit 305 acquires floor signals output from the control board 110 to the control panel 105b of the landing 105 on each floor and the control panel 102a of the elevator car 102 of the elevator 101.

[0141] Furthermore, the acquisition unit 305 acquires an alarm signal output from the control board 110, for example, when it detects that an earthquake of a predetermined seismic intensity or higher has occurred and the operating mode of the elevator 101 switches from the normal operating mode to the earthquake operating mode. In addition, the acquisition unit 305 outputs an alarm signal to notify the outside of the occurrence of a malfunction in the elevator 101, for example, when a control signal is output to the motor that raises and lowers the elevator car 102 of the elevator 101, but the floor signal indicating the position of the car 102 does not switch.

[0142] The acquisition unit 305 can acquire control signals, for example, via a terminal to which a maintenance and diagnostic terminal can be connected. Alternatively, the acquisition unit 305 may acquire control signals, for example, at the connection point between the control board 110 and the wiring (or branch connector) connected to each part that will be the output destination of the control signals.

[0143] Furthermore, the acquisition unit 305 may acquire control signals via a relay provided on the control board 110, the relay's output changing according to the state of each part of the elevator 101. Alternatively, the acquisition unit 305 may acquire control signals via an LED that lights up or turns off in conjunction with the operation of each part of the elevator 101. In addition, the acquisition unit 305 may acquire control signals via a pin (connection wiring) that fixes the relay or LED to the control board 110.

[0144] The generation unit 303 generates notification information, including information about the status of the elevator 101, based on the signals acquired by the acquisition unit 305. For example, the generation unit 303 generates notification information indicating that the elevator 101 is operating normally, based on control signals output from the control board 110. The generation unit 303 also generates notification information indicating the floor where the elevator car 102 of the elevator 101 is currently located, based on floor signals output from the control board 110. Furthermore, the generation unit 303 generates notification information indicating that the current operating mode of the elevator 101 has switched or that a malfunction has occurred in the elevator 101, based on alarm signals output from the control board 110.

[0145] The generation unit 303 generates notification information each time the acquisition unit 305 acquires a signal. Alternatively, the generation unit 303 may generate notification information when, for example, the acquisition unit 305 acquires a specific signal. Specifically, the generation unit 303 may generate notification information when, for example, the acquisition unit 305 acquires an alarm signal indicating that the current operating mode of the elevator 101 has switched.

[0146] The transmitting unit 307 transmits the notification information generated by the generation unit 303 to the management server computer 130. The transmitting unit 307 transmits the notification information to the management server computer 130 each time the generation unit 303 generates notification information. Alternatively, the transmitting unit 307 may transmit the notification information to the management server computer 130 when the generation unit 303 generates specific notification information. Specifically, for example, when the generation unit 303 generates notification information based on an alarm signal indicating that the current operating mode of the elevator 101 has switched, the transmitting unit 307 may transmit the notification information to the management server computer 130.

[0147] The remote monitoring support device 120 of Embodiment 2 of this invention may further determine, using a determination unit 306, whether the operating state of the elevator 101 is in a normal operating state based on the signal acquired by the acquisition unit 305, and if it is not in a normal operating state, generate notification information including information about the state of the elevator 101 and transmit it to the management server computer 130. This allows the operator to quickly grasp that the operating state of the elevator 101 is not in a normal operating state and to quickly take measures to maintain the elevator 101 in good condition, such as arranging for inspection personnel as needed. This improves the reliability of the elevator 101, ensures the safety of users, and allows users to use the elevator 101 with peace of mind.

[0148] (Processing procedure of the remote monitoring support device 120) Figures 5 and 6 are flowcharts showing the processing procedure of the remote monitoring support device 120 according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention. In the flowchart of Figure 5, first, the system waits until it receives a control signal output from the control board 110 (Step S501: No).

[0149] In step S501, if a control signal output from the control board 110 is acquired (step S501: Yes), notification information is generated based on the acquired control signal. (Step S502). In step S502, notification information is generated that includes information such as the direction in which the car 102 moves up and down, the floor to which the car 102 will move, whether or not the car 102 has stopped at the destination floor, whether or not the motors that open and close the doors 105a and 102c are operating, the floor to which the car 102 is currently located, and whether or not various safety devices are operating.

[0150] Subsequently, the notification information generated in step S502 is sent to the management server computer 130 (step S503), and the series of processes is terminated. In step S503, the notification information generated in step S502 is sent to the management server computer 130 via the communication I / F 204 and the network 160 such as the Internet.

[0151] In the flowchart of Figure 6, first, it is determined whether or not a transmission instruction for notification information sent from the management server computer 130 has been received (step S601). If, in step S601, a transmission instruction for notification information sent from the management server computer 130 has been received (step S601: Yes), an operation command signal is generated to cause the elevator 101 to perform a diagnostic operation based on the received transmission instruction (step S602).

[0152] Then, the operation command signal generated in step S602 is output to the control board 110 (step S603), and the series of processes is completed. In step S603, for example, the operation command signal generated in step S602 is output via a connection terminal provided on the control board 110 for connecting a maintenance diagnostic terminal.

[0153] On the other hand, if in step S601 the instruction to send notification information sent from the management server computer 130 has not been received (step S601: No), it is determined whether a predetermined amount of time has elapsed since the last time the operation command signal to perform a diagnostic operation on the elevator 101 was sent to the control board 110 (step S604). In step S604 the predetermined amount of time has not elapsed since the last time the operation command signal to perform a diagnostic operation on the elevator 101 was sent (step S604: No), it returns to step S601 and determines whether or not the instruction to send notification information sent from the management server computer 130 has been received.

[0154] In step S604, if a predetermined time has elapsed since the last transmission of an operation command signal to perform a diagnostic operation on elevator 101 (step S604: Yes), the process proceeds to step S602, where an operation command signal to perform a diagnostic operation on elevator 101 is generated. In this case, in step S602, for example, an operation command signal to perform a diagnostic operation on elevator 101 is generated based on information previously stored in the remote monitoring support device 120.

[0155] As described above, the remote monitoring support device 120 of this second embodiment is characterized by acquiring signals output from the control board 110 to the outside of the control board 110, generating notification information including information regarding the status of the elevator 101 based on the acquired signals, and transmitting the generated notification information to the management server computer 130.

[0156] According to the remote monitoring support device 120 of this second embodiment, by acquiring notification information based on signals output from the control board 110 to the outside of the control board 110 and transmitting it to the management server computer 130, remote monitoring of each elevator 101 can be performed not only for elevators 101 equipped with a communication function with an external device installed in a remote location, but also for elevators 101 that are not equipped with such a communication function.

[0157] This means that elevator 101 can operate regardless of whether it has a communication function or not. Since remote monitoring of elevator 01 can be performed, the reliability of elevator 101 can be improved, the safety of users can be ensured, and users can use elevator 101 with peace of mind.

[0158] Furthermore, the remote monitoring support device 120 of this second embodiment is characterized by acquiring control signals that are output from the control board 110 to each part of the elevator 101 for controlling each of those parts.

[0159] According to the remote monitoring support device 120 of this second embodiment, by transmitting notification information based on control signals output from the control board 110 to each part of the elevator 101 to the management server computer 130, it is possible to remotely monitor the elevator 101 without separately providing a dedicated terminal on the control board for outputting information about the status of the elevator 101, or separately incorporating a program to generate information about the status of the elevator 101 into the control board.

[0160] This allows for remote monitoring of elevator 101 regardless of its model, thereby improving its reliability, ensuring user safety, and allowing users to use elevator 101 with peace of mind.

[0161] Furthermore, the remote monitoring support device 120 of this second embodiment is characterized in that it acquires an alarm signal output from the control board 110 to the outside of the control board 110 in order to notify the outside of any malfunction that has occurred in the elevator 101.

[0162] According to the remote monitoring support device 120 of this second embodiment, by transmitting notification information based on the alarm signal output from the control board 110 to the management server computer 130, the elevator 101 can be remotely monitored using the existing functions of the elevator 101. As a result, remote monitoring of the elevator 101 can be performed regardless of the model of the elevator 101, thereby improving the reliability of the elevator 101, ensuring the safety of users, and allowing users to use the elevator 101 with peace of mind.

[0163] Furthermore, the remote monitoring support device 120 of this second embodiment may also detect abnormalities in the elevator 101, as well as an earthquake of a predetermined seismic intensity or higher occurring at the location where the elevator 101 is installed. In such cases, if the operating mode of the elevator 101 switches from the normal operating mode to an operating mode other than the normal operating mode, the device may acquire a signal indicating the operating mode that has been output from the control board 110 to the outside of the control board 110 in order to notify the outside that such a switch in operating mode has occurred.

[0164] This allows for remote monitoring of elevator 101 using existing functions, even in emergencies such as earthquakes exceeding a predetermined seismic intensity, as long as elevator 101 is functioning normally. This enables remote monitoring of elevator 101 regardless of its model, thereby improving its reliability, ensuring user safety, and allowing users to use elevator 101 with peace of mind.

[0165] Furthermore, the remote monitoring support device 120 of this second embodiment outputs a diagnostic operation execution instruction to the control board 110 when it receives a notification information transmission instruction sent from the management server computer 130, and acquires control signals output from the control board 110 to each part of the elevator 101 in accordance with the outputted diagnostic operation execution instruction. It is a distinguishing feature.

[0166] According to the remote monitoring support device 120 of this second embodiment, when a diagnostic operation is performed on the control board 110 in response to instructions from the management server computer 130, notification information based on control signals output from the control board 110 to each part of the elevator 101 is transmitted to the management server computer 130, thereby enabling remote monitoring of the elevator 101. This allows remote monitoring of the elevator 101 to be performed at any timing set on the management server computer 130, thereby improving the reliability of the elevator 101, ensuring the safety of users, and allowing users to use the elevator 101 with peace of mind.

[0167] Furthermore, the remote monitoring support device 120 of this second embodiment is characterized by outputting instructions to the control board 110 to perform a diagnostic operation via a terminal (maintenance port) to which a maintenance terminal device (maintenance inspection terminal) can be connected.

[0168] According to the remote monitoring support device 120 of this second embodiment, by outputting instructions to execute a diagnostic operation via a terminal to which a diagnostic terminal device (maintenance and inspection terminal) used for diagnosing the elevator 101, which is conventionally used at the site where the elevator 101 is installed, the control board 110 can be easily made to execute a diagnostic operation without having to newly provide a mechanism for inputting instructions to the control board 110. This improves the reliability of the elevator 101, ensures the safety of users, and allows users to use the elevator 101 with peace of mind.

[0169] Furthermore, the remote monitoring support device 120 of this second embodiment can grasp the status of the elevator 101 at predetermined intervals, regardless of whether or not a diagnostic instruction is sent from the management server computer 130. This reduces the processing load on the management server computer 130 for remote monitoring of the elevator 101, while improving the reliability of the elevator 101.

[0170] <Embodiment 3> Next, a remote monitoring system for an elevator according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention will be described. In Embodiment 3, the same parts as those in Embodiments 1 and 2 described above are indicated by the same reference numerals, and their description is omitted.

[0171] Figure 7 is an explanatory diagram showing the system configuration of the remote monitoring system of Embodiment 3 according to the present invention. Figure 8 is an explanatory diagram showing the hardware configuration of the remote monitoring support device that constitutes the remote monitoring system of Embodiment 3 according to the present invention. In Figures 7 and 8, the relay board 201 of the remote monitoring support device 120 of Embodiment 3 according to the present invention is connected to a connection terminal 121a that is connected to the control board 110. The connection terminal 121a is electrically connected to the relay board 201 (input terminal) and can be realized by a connector that is provided separately from the relay board 201 and connected to the relay board 201 by wiring 121b. The connection terminal 121a only needs to be electrically connected to the relay board 201 (input terminal), and may be provided integrally with the relay board 201 or provided separately from the relay board 201.

[0172] The remote monitoring support device 120 is provided on the control board 110 and connected to the control board 110 by connecting a connection terminal 121a to a terminal 110a (hereinafter referred to as the "maintenance and inspection terminal") on the control board 110, to which a diagnostic terminal device can be connected. The connection terminal 121a and the maintenance and inspection terminal 110a are connected in a way that allows them to be separated.

[0173] Specifically, for example, the remote monitoring support device 120 and the control board 110 can be connected or disconnected by inserting or removing a connector (male or female) that provides connection terminal 121a into a connector (female or male) that provides maintenance terminal 110a. By using connectors for connection terminal 121a and maintenance terminal 110a, the remote monitoring support device 120 and the control board 110 can be easily connected, and the remote monitoring support device 120 can be easily removed when it needs to be removed.

[0174] For example, if the control board 110 outputs control signals to various parts of the elevator 101 based on signals output from a diagnostic terminal device, and the elevator 101 does not operate in accordance with said control signals, the control board 110 determines that an abnormality has occurred in the elevator 101 and outputs a signal (an alert signal) to notify the occurrence of an abnormality in the elevator 101.

[0175] The control board 110 outputs an alarm signal to the remote monitoring support device 120, for example, via the maintenance terminal 110a, to notify it of the occurrence of an abnormality. Signals output from the control board 110 via the maintenance terminal 110a, such as the alarm signal, are input to the remote monitoring support device 120 from the relay board 201.

[0176] (Functional configuration of remote monitoring system 100) Next, the functional configuration of the remote monitoring system 100 according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention will be described. Figure 9 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the remote monitoring support device 120 that constitutes the remote monitoring system 100 according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

[0177] In Figure 9, each function of the remote monitoring support device 120 for the elevator 101 according to this embodiment of the invention is realized by the receiving unit 301, the storage unit 302, the generation unit 303, the output unit 304, the acquisition unit 305, the judgment unit 306, and the transmission unit 307. The functions of the receiving unit 301, the storage unit 302, the generation unit 303, the output unit 304, the acquisition unit 305, the judgment unit 306, and the transmission unit 307 of the remote monitoring support device 120 for the elevator 101 according to this embodiment of the invention can be realized by the respective parts of the remote monitoring support device 120.

[0178] The receiving unit 301 receives various instruction signals transmitted from the management server computer 130. For example, the receiving unit 301 receives a transmission instruction for notification information transmitted from the management server computer 130. When the receiving unit 301 receives a diagnostic instruction, the storage unit 302 stores information regarding the date and time the diagnostic instruction was received. This makes it possible to periodically monitor the operation of the elevator 101 without communicating with the management server computer 130.

[0179] When the receiving unit 301 receives a transmission instruction, the generation unit 303 generates an operation command signal that causes the elevator 101 to perform the above-mentioned diagnostic operation. The generation unit 303 generates an operation command signal that has been converted by the relay board 201 into a format that the control board 110 can analyze. When the receiving unit 301 receives a transmission instruction, the generation unit 303 generates an operation command signal that includes an instruction to output signals that cause each part of the elevator 101 to operate in a predetermined order.

[0180] Specifically, the generation unit 303 generates operation command signals that cause the control board 110 to drive and control, for example, the motor that raises and lowers the elevator car 102 of the elevator 101, the brake that stops the car 102 while it is being raised or lowered, and the motors that open and close the doors 105a and 102c of the landing 105 and the car 102.

[0181] The output unit 304 sends to the control board 110 the operation command information (which causes the elevator 101 to perform the above diagnostic operation) generated by the generation unit 303 when the receiving unit 301 receives a transmission instruction. The output unit 304 outputs the operation command signal via the connection terminal. The operation command signal output by the output unit 304 is converted by the relay board 201 into a format that the control board 110 can analyze, so the control board 110 can perform a diagnostic operation in the same way as when a signal to perform a diagnostic operation is directly input from a maintenance diagnostic terminal.

[0182] The output unit 304 may output an operation command signal to execute the next diagnostic operation not only when the receiving unit 301 receives a transmission instruction, but also when a predetermined time has elapsed since outputting an operation command signal to the control board 110. Specifically, the output unit 304 may, for example, output an operation command signal to execute the next diagnostic operation when one month has elapsed since outputting an instruction to execute a diagnostic operation, based on the date and time information stored in the storage unit 302.

[0183] This allows the control board 110 to periodically output an operation command signal to perform a diagnostic operation without communicating with the management server computer 130. This reduces the burden on communication while allowing the elevator 101 to perform diagnostic operations periodically.

[0184] The acquisition unit 305 acquires signals output from the control board 110 to the outside of the control board 110 via the maintenance and inspection terminal 110a. The acquisition unit 305 acquires, for example, information regarding the results of diagnostic operations performed in the elevator 101 in response to the operation command signal output by the output unit 304, via the maintenance and inspection terminal 110a.

[0185] Furthermore, the acquisition unit 305 acquires an alarm signal output from the control board 110 via the maintenance and inspection terminal 110a, for example, when the elevator 101's operating mode switches from the normal operating mode to the earthquake operating mode due to the detection of an earthquake of a predetermined seismic intensity or higher.

[0186] Furthermore, the acquisition unit 305 acquires an alarm signal via the maintenance and inspection terminal 110a to notify the outside of a malfunction in the elevator 101, for example, when a control signal is output to the motor that raises and lowers the elevator car 102 of the elevator 101, but the floor signal indicating the position of the car 102 does not switch.

[0187] Furthermore, the acquisition unit 305 may acquire, for example, control signals output from the control board 110 to each part of the elevator 101 via the maintenance and inspection terminal 110a. Specifically, the acquisition unit 305 may acquire, for example, control signals output from the control board 110 when a predetermined input operation is received at the operation panel 105b of the landing 105 on each floor and the operation panel 102a of the elevator car 102, via the maintenance and inspection terminal 110a. Specifically, the acquisition unit 305 may acquire, for example, floor signals output from the control board 110 to the operation panel 105b of the landing 105 on each floor and the operation panel 102a of the elevator car 102, via the maintenance and inspection terminal 110a.

[0188] Furthermore, the acquisition unit 305 may acquire signals output to the control board 110 from various parts of the elevator 101 via the maintenance and inspection terminal 110a. Specifically, the acquisition unit 305 may acquire signals output from the operation panels 105b and 102a of the elevator car 102 of each floor, for example, when a predetermined input operation is received at the operation panel 105b of the landing 105 on each floor and the operation panel 102a of the elevator car 102, via the maintenance and inspection terminal 110a.

[0189] Furthermore, the acquisition unit 305 controls the control panels 105b of the landings 105 on each floor and the control panels of the elevator car 102. Signals output to the control board 110 from each part of the elevator 101, including 102a, may be acquired. Specifically, for example, when each part of the elevator 101 operates in response to a control signal output from the control board 110, each part outputs a signal (operation notification signal) to notify the control board 110 that it has operated based on the control signal. The acquisition unit 305 acquires the signals (operation notification signals) output to the control board 110 from each part of the elevator 101.

[0190] In this way, the acquisition unit 305 acquires bidirectional signals: signals output from the control board 110 to each part of the elevator 101 (downbound signals) and signals output from each part to the control board 110 (upbound signals). The position where the acquisition unit 305 acquires the upbound signal and the position where the acquisition unit 305 acquires the downbound signal may be the same or different.

[0191] The generation unit 303 generates notification information, including information about the status of the elevator 101, based on the signals acquired by the acquisition unit 305. For example, the generation unit 303 generates notification information indicating that the elevator 101 is operating normally, based on control signals output from the control board 110. The generation unit 303 also generates notification information indicating the floor where the elevator car 102 of the elevator 101 is currently located, based on floor signals output from the control board 110. Furthermore, the generation unit 303 generates notification information indicating that the current operating mode of the elevator 101 has switched or that a malfunction has occurred in the elevator 101, based on alarm signals output from the control board 110.

[0192] The generation unit 303 generates notification information each time the acquisition unit 305 acquires a signal. Alternatively, the generation unit 303 may generate notification information when, for example, the acquisition unit 305 acquires a specific signal. Specifically, the generation unit 303 may generate notification information when, for example, the acquisition unit 305 acquires an alarm signal indicating that the current operating mode of the elevator 101 has switched.

[0193] The transmitting unit 307 transmits the notification information generated by the generation unit 303 to the management server computer 130. The transmitting unit 307 transmits the notification information to the management server computer 130 each time the generation unit 303 generates notification information. Alternatively, the transmitting unit 307 may transmit the notification information to the management server computer 130 when the generation unit 303 generates specific notification information. Specifically, for example, when the generation unit 303 generates notification information based on an alarm signal indicating that the current operating mode of the elevator 101 has switched, the transmitting unit 307 may transmit the notification information to the management server computer 130.

[0194] The remote monitoring support device 120 of Embodiment 3 of this invention may further determine, using a determination unit 306, whether the operating state of the elevator 101 is in a normal operating state based on the signal acquired by the acquisition unit 305, and if it is not in a normal operating state, generate notification information including information about the state of the elevator 101 and transmit it to the management server computer 130. This allows the operator to quickly grasp that the operating state of the elevator 101 is not in a normal operating state and to quickly take measures to maintain the elevator 101 in good condition, such as arranging for inspection workers as needed. This improves the reliability of the elevator 101, ensures the safety of users, and allows users to use the elevator 101 with peace of mind.

[0195] (Processing procedure of the remote monitoring support device 120) Next, the processing procedure of the remote monitoring support device 120 of Embodiment 3 according to this invention will be described. Figures 10 and 11 show the remote monitoring support device 120 of Embodiment 3 according to this invention. This is a flowchart of the 20 processing steps. In the flowchart of Figure 10, first, it is determined whether or not a transmission instruction for notification information sent from the management server computer 130 has been received (step S1001). If, in step S1001, a transmission instruction for notification information sent from the management server computer 130 has been received (step S1001: Yes), an operation command signal is generated to cause the elevator 101 to perform a diagnostic operation based on the received transmission instruction (step S1002).

[0196] Then, the operation command signal generated in step S1002 is output to the control board 110 (step S1003). In step S1003, for example, the operation command signal generated in step S1002 is output via a connection terminal provided on the control board 110 for connecting a maintenance diagnostic terminal. Then, the system waits until it receives a control signal output from the control board 110 in response to the operation command signal output in step S1003 (step S1004: No).

[0197] In step S1004, if a control signal is received from the control board 110 in response to the operation command signal output in step S1003 (step S1004: Yes), notification information is generated based on the received control signal (step S1005). In step S1005, for example, in response to the operation command signal output in step S1003, the control board 110 generates notification information indicating whether or not the control board 110 controlled each part of the elevator 101 as instructed by the operation command signal, based on the control signals output from each part of the elevator 101.

[0198] Then, the notification information generated in step S1005 is sent to the management server computer 130 (step S1006), and the series of processes is completed. In step S1006, the notification information generated in step S1005 is sent from the communication I / F 204 to the management server computer 130 via the network 160, such as the Internet.

[0199] On the other hand, if in step S1001 the instruction to send notification information sent from the management server computer 130 has not been received (step S1001: No), it is determined whether a predetermined amount of time has elapsed since the last time the operation command signal to perform a diagnostic operation on the elevator 101 was sent to the control board 110 (step S1007). In step S1007, if a predetermined amount of time has not elapsed since the last time the operation command signal to perform a diagnostic operation on the elevator 101 was sent (step S1007: No), the process returns to step S1001 and it is determined whether or not the instruction to send notification information sent from the management server computer 130 has been received.

[0200] In step S1007, if a predetermined time has elapsed since the last transmission of an operation command signal to perform a diagnostic operation on elevator 101 (step S1007: Yes), the process proceeds to step S1002, where an operation command signal to perform a diagnostic operation on elevator 101 is generated. In this case, in step S1002, for example, an operation command signal to perform a diagnostic operation on elevator 101 is generated based on information previously stored in the remote monitoring support device 120.

[0201] In the flowchart of Figure 11, first, the system waits until it receives an alarm signal output from the control board 110 via the maintenance terminal (Step S1101: No). If an alarm signal is received from the control board 110 via the maintenance terminal in Step S1101 (Step S1101: Yes), notification information is generated based on the received alarm signal (Step S1102). In Step S1102, for example, if the operating mode of the elevator 101 changes from the normal operating mode to a mode other than the normal operating mode, The system generates notification information indicating that the operating mode has been switched to the normal operating mode. In step S1102, for example, the system generates notification information indicating that the operating mode of the elevator 101 has been switched from an operating mode other than the normal operating mode to the normal operating mode.

[0202] Then, the notification information generated in step S1102 is sent to the management server computer 130 (step S1103), and the series of processes is completed. In step S1103, the notification information generated in step S1102 is sent from the communication I / F 204 to the management server computer 130 via the network 160, such as the Internet.

[0203] As described above, the remote monitoring support device 120 of this embodiment 3 is a remote monitoring support device 120 that communicates with the control board 110 that controls the operation of the elevator 101 and the management server computer 130, respectively, and is characterized in that it is connected to the control board 110 via a maintenance and inspection terminal 110a provided on the control board 110 to which a diagnostic terminal device can be connected, and acquires an alarm signal output from the control board 110 to the outside of the control board 110 in order to notify the outside of an abnormality that has occurred in the elevator 101 via the maintenance and inspection terminal 110a, generates notification information including information about the status of the elevator 101 based on the acquired alarm signal, and transmits the generated notification information to the management server computer 130.

[0204] According to the remote monitoring support device 120 of Embodiment 3 of this invention, an alarm signal is acquired via a maintenance and inspection terminal 110a to which a diagnostic terminal device used for diagnosing the elevator 101, which is conventionally used at the site where the elevator 101 is installed, can be connected. Notification information based on the alarm signal is then transmitted to the management server computer 130. This allows the control board 110 to grasp the status of the elevator 101 remotely at the site without requiring the installation of a new mechanism for communication with an external device.

[0205] This allows remote monitoring of each elevator 101, not only for elevators 101 equipped with a communication function to an external device installed in a remote location, but also for elevators 101 that do not have such a communication function. As a result, remote monitoring of the elevator 101 can be performed regardless of whether the elevator 101 itself has a communication function, thereby improving the reliability of the elevator 101, ensuring the safety of users, and allowing users to use the elevator 101 with peace of mind.

[0206] Furthermore, the remote monitoring support device 120 of Embodiment 3 according to this invention is characterized in that, upon receiving a transmission instruction for notification information sent from the management server computer 130, it outputs operation instruction information relating to an instruction to execute a diagnostic operation to diagnose the operating status of the elevator 101 to the control board 110, and acquires control signals output from the control board 110 to each part of the elevator 101 in accordance with said operation instruction information.

[0207] According to the remote monitoring support device 120 of Embodiment 3 of this invention, when a diagnostic operation is performed on the control board 110 in response to instructions from the management server computer 130, notification information based on control signals output from the control board 110 to each part of the elevator 101 is transmitted to the management server computer 130, thereby enabling remote monitoring of the elevator 101. This allows remote monitoring of the elevator 101 to be performed at any timing set on the management server computer 130, thereby improving the reliability of the elevator 101, ensuring the safety of users, and allowing users to use the elevator 101 with peace of mind.

[0208] Furthermore, the remote monitoring support device 120 of Embodiment 3 according to this invention is characterized in that it outputs the next instruction to execute a diagnostic operation after a predetermined time has elapsed since the output of the instruction to execute a diagnostic operation.

[0209] According to the remote monitoring support device 120 of Embodiment 3 of this invention, the status of the elevator 101 can be grasped at predetermined intervals regardless of whether or not a diagnostic instruction is sent from the management server computer 130. This makes it possible to reduce the processing load on the management server computer 130 for remote monitoring of the elevator 101 while improving the reliability of the elevator 101.

[0210] <Embodiment 4> Next, a remote monitoring system for an elevator according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention will be described. In Embodiment 4, the same parts as those in Embodiments 1 to 3 described above are indicated by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0211] (System configuration of the remote monitoring system) First, the system configuration of the remote monitoring system for an elevator, which includes the remote monitoring support device of Embodiment 4 according to this invention, will be described. Figure 12 is an explanatory diagram showing the system configuration of the remote monitoring system of Embodiment 4 according to this invention.

[0212] In Figure 12, in the remote monitoring system 100 of Embodiment 4 according to the present invention, each landing 105 is equipped with an operation panel 105b (hereinafter referred to as "landing 105 operation panel 105b") which includes a landing call button (not shown) and a display that shows the floor level where the elevator car 102 is located. The landing call button outputs a signal corresponding to the input operation received by the landing call button. The display can be implemented, for example, by any known display device that shows the floor level where the elevator car 102 is located.

[0213] Each boarding platform 105's control panel 105b is equipped with a control board and is connected to the control board 110 via a control board for the boarding platform 105b. Specifically, the control board for the boarding platform 105b can consist of, for example, a display board for controlling a display and an operation board for outputting signals to the control board 110 in response to input operations received at the boarding platform call button.

[0214] In this case, a display board and an operation board are provided at each landing 105. The control board 110 receives signals output from the operation board. The control board 110 also outputs a signal to the display board indicating the floor level on which the elevator car 102 is located.

[0215] Alternatively, the control board for the control panel 105b of platform 105 is not limited to being composed of a display board and an operation board, but may be implemented using only the display board.

[0216] Alternatively, the control panel 105b of the landing 105 may be implemented using only a display board and an operation board, without including landing call buttons or indicators.

[0217] The remote monitoring support device 120 can be mounted, for example, in the housing that houses the control board 110 of the elevator 101, or on the wall of the elevator shaft. The remote monitoring support device 120 includes a main control board 121 and an audio communication board 122. The main control board 121 is directly connected to the control panel 105b of the landing 105 via wiring 200, etc.

[0218] Specifically, the main control board 121 of the remote monitoring support device 120 includes, for example, a board 123 attached to a signal line 111 that connects the operation panel 105b of the landing 105 and the control board 110, which acquires various signals transmitted by the signal line 111, and the main control board 121 and the board 123 can be connected to the operation panel 105b of the landing 105 by connecting the board 123 and the main control board 121 via wiring 200.

[0219] The main control board 121 acquires various signals output from the control panel 105b of the landing 105. For example, when a user of the elevator 101 performs an input operation on the control panel 105b of the landing 105, the main control board 121 acquires a call signal output from the control panel 105b of the landing 105 in response to that input operation.

[0220] Furthermore, the main control board 121 acquires various signals output from the control board 110 to the control panel 105b of the landing 105 (the control board for the control panel 105b of the landing 105). For example, in response to a call signal output from the control panel 105b of the landing 105, the main control board 121 acquires signals such as floor signals output to the control panel 105b of the landing 105, which are among the signals output by the control board 110 to various parts of the elevator 101.

[0221] Furthermore, the main control board 121 is connected to the control board 110. The main control board 121 is connected to a connection terminal 121a that is connected to the control board 110. The connection terminal 121a can be realized by a connector connected to the main control board 121 via wiring 121b, for example. The remote monitoring support device 120 is connected to the control board 110 by connecting the connection terminal 121a to a terminal 110a provided on the control board 110, which is capable of connecting a diagnostic terminal device to the control board 110 (hereinafter referred to as the "maintenance and inspection terminal"). The connection terminal 121a and the maintenance and inspection terminal 110a are connected in a detachable manner.

[0222] The maintenance terminal 110a is provided, for example, for connecting a diagnostic terminal device (maintenance diagnostic terminal) used for maintenance work performed by a worker at the site where the elevator 101 is installed. The maintenance terminal 110a is not limited to elevators 101 installed for remote monitoring purposes, and is generally provided in a wide range of elevators 101, regardless of whether they are existing, newly installed, or old.

[0223] The diagnostic terminal device is portable and can be carried by a worker, and is used, for example, when a worker performs maintenance and inspection work at the site where the elevator 101 is installed. The diagnostic terminal device has a terminal that can be detachably connected to the maintenance and inspection terminal 110a. During maintenance and inspection work, the worker connects the terminal on the diagnostic terminal device to the maintenance and inspection terminal provided on the control board 110 and performs a predetermined input operation to the diagnostic terminal device. The diagnostic terminal device outputs a signal to the control board 110 in response to the input operation by the worker.

[0224] For example, when the control board 110 receives a signal output from a diagnostic terminal device during maintenance work, it operates various parts of the elevator 101 in accordance with the input signal and outputs a signal regarding the result of that operation to the diagnostic terminal device. Based on the signal regarding the operation result of the elevator 101 output from the control board 110, the diagnostic terminal device determines whether the elevator 101 operated normally in response to the input operation by the worker. It will report the information contained within.

[0225] (Hardware configuration of remote monitoring system 100) Next, the hardware configuration of the remote monitoring support device 120, which constitutes the remote monitoring system 100 of Embodiment 4 according to this invention, will be described. Figure 13 is an explanatory diagram showing the hardware configuration of the remote monitoring support device 120, which constitutes the remote monitoring system 100 of Embodiment 4 according to this invention.

[0226] In Figure 13, the control board 110 controls the operation of the elevator 101 by driving and controlling each component that makes up the elevator 101. The control board 110 outputs control signals to each component of the elevator 101 and controls the operation of the elevator 101 based on the signals output from each component.

[0227] The control boards for the control panel 102a of the elevator car 102 and the control panel 105b of the landing 105 generate a call signal corresponding to the input operation each time they receive an input operation from an elevator user or the like, and output the generated call signal to the control board 110. The control board 110 controls the operation of the elevator 101 by outputting control signals to drive the drive mechanism 104 based on the call signals output from, for example, the control board for the control panel 102a of the elevator car 102 and the control board for the control panel 105b of the landing 105.

[0228] Specifically, the control board 110 generates control signals for the motors that raise and lower the elevator car 102 based on call signals output from, for example, the control board for the control panel 102a of the elevator car 102 or the control board for the control panel 105b of the landing 105, and outputs the generated control signals to the motors that raise and lower the elevator car 102. As a result, the motors that raise and lower the elevator car 102 rotate in the direction of raising or lowering the elevator car 102. The motors that raise and lower the elevator car 102 are controlled, for example, using an inverter, and are driven and controlled by the control board 110 to stop rotating at the floor where the elevator car 102 is to be stopped.

[0229] The control board 110 obtains the rotational speed of each motor that operates according to the control signal it outputs to the motors that raise and lower the cage 102. The rotational speed of each motor can be obtained, for example, using an encoder. This allows the control board 110 to determine whether the motors that raise and lower the cage 102 operated normally according to the control signals it output to them.

[0230] Specifically, the control board 110 generates a control signal to activate the brakes to stop the elevator car 102 at a predetermined floor level, based on call signals output from, for example, the control board for the control panel 102a of the elevator car 102 or the control board for the control panel 105b of the landing 105, and outputs the generated control signal to the brakes. The brakes operate in accordance with the control signal output from the control board 110 to stop the elevator car 102's upward and downward movement and to stop the elevator car 102 at the predetermined floor level. This allows the elevator car 102 to be stopped at the predetermined floor level.

[0231] Each time the control board 110 outputs a control signal to the brake, it acquires an output signal from a brake sensor whose output changes according to the operation of the brake. The brake sensor can be implemented as, for example, a microswitch or a photoelectric sensor. This allows the control board 110 to determine whether the brake has operated normally according to the control signal it has output to the brake.

[0232] Furthermore, specifically, the control board 110 controls, for example, the control panel 102a of the cage 102. Based on the call signals output from the control board for the control panel 105b of the elevator car 102 and landing 105, control signals are generated to open and close the doors 102c and 105a on the floor where the elevator car 102 has been stopped by the brakes. These generated control signals are then output to the motors that open and close the doors 102c of the elevator car 102 and the doors 105a of the landing 105. This allows the doors 102c and 105a to be opened and closed on the floor where the elevator car 102 has stopped. As described above, the motor that opens and closes the doors 105a is locked by a device called an interlock, so it will not operate if the doors 105a are not completely closed.

[0233] The control board 110 acquires the output signal from the door opening / closing sensor each time it outputs a control signal to the motors that open and close the doors 102c and 105a. This allows the control board 110 to determine whether the doors 102c and 105a have operated normally according to the control signal output to the motors that open and close the corresponding doors 102c and 105a.

[0234] Furthermore, the control board 110 outputs control signals, including a floor signal indicating the floor on which the elevator car 102 is located, to, for example, the control board for the control panel 102a of the elevator car 102 and the control board for the control panel 105b of the landing 105. The floor on which the elevator car 102 is located can be identified, for example, based on output signals from sensors (not shown) provided on each floor in the elevator shaft. When the control board for the control panel 102a of the elevator car 102 and the control board for the control panel 105b of the landing 105 receive a control signal including a floor signal, they control a display based on the received control signal to display the floor on which the elevator car 102 is located and its direction of movement (whether it is rising or descending).

[0235] The control board 110 outputs a control signal, including a floor signal, to the control board for the control panel 102a of the elevator car 102 and the control board for the control panel 105b of the landing 105, for example, each time the position of the elevator car 102 changes. Alternatively, the control board 110 may output a control signal, including a floor signal, to the control board for the control panel 102a of the elevator car 102 and the control board for the control panel 105b of the landing 105, for example, periodically, regardless of the position of the elevator car 102.

[0236] The control board 110 is connected to the operation panel 102a and the operation panel 105b of the landing 105. Each time the elevator car 102 is raised or lowered in response to a signal output from the operation panel 102a or the operation panel 105b of the landing 105, the control board 110 outputs a start signal indicating that each part has been activated to raise or lower the elevator car 102. For example, when moving from the first floor to the second floor, the control board 110 outputs a start signal once. Also, for example, when moving from the first floor to the fifth floor without stopping along the way, the control board 110 outputs a start signal once. Also, for example, when moving from the first floor to the fifth floor after stopping at the third floor (opening or closing the doors), the control board 110 outputs a start signal twice.

[0237] The control board 110 may calculate the distance traveled and the travel time of the elevator car 102 each time the car is raised or lowered. The distance traveled by the elevator car 102 can be calculated, for example, based on the number of starts. The travel time of the elevator car 102 can be calculated, for example, based on the floor signals mentioned above. Specifically, for example, if the elevator car 102 is on the first floor and receives a call from the control panel 105b at the landing 105 on the fourth floor, the elevator car 102 will move three floors from the first floor to the fourth floor.

[0238] The control board 110 includes a memory (not shown) and stores in the memory the number of times the start signal has been output, i.e., the number of starts, each time a start signal is output. The control board 110 may store in the memory, instead of, or in addition to, the number of starts, the history of the operation of each part driven during the lifting and lowering of the car 102 and the opening and closing of the doors 105a and 102c. Specifically, the control board 110 may store in the memory, for example, the number of starts, the distance traveled by the car 102, and the number of starts Information regarding the travel time, the number of times various relays operated during the raising and lowering of the cage 102 and the opening and closing of the doors 105a and 102c may be stored in memory as a history of the operation.

[0239] Furthermore, the control board 110 determines whether doors 102c and 105a are open or closed based on the output values ​​of the door opening / closing sensors. Based on the control signals for opening and closing doors 102c and 105a that it outputs and the output values ​​of the door opening / closing sensors, the control board 110 can determine whether doors 102c and 105a have actually been opened or closed in accordance with the output of the control signals for opening and closing doors 102c and 105a.

[0240] Furthermore, the control board 110 outputs a signal indicating that the operating mode of the elevator 101 has been switched when the operating mode of the elevator 101 changes. Specifically, the control board 110 outputs a signal to notify the outside that the operating mode has been switched, or a signal to notify the operating mode after the switch (that it is an operating mode other than the normal operating mode), for example, when the operating mode of the elevator 101 has been switched from an operating mode other than the normal operating mode to the normal operating mode. Also, specifically, the control board 110 outputs a signal to notify the outside that the operating mode has been switched, or a signal to notify the operating mode after the switch (that it is the normal operating mode) (an alarm signal), for example, when the operating mode of the elevator 101 has been switched from an operating mode other than the normal operating mode to the normal operating mode.

[0241] Furthermore, the control board 110 outputs a signal (alarm signal) to notify the occurrence of a malfunction in the elevator 101 when it detects a malfunction. Specifically, for example, if the control board 110 outputs a control signal to open or close doors 105a and 102c, but detects that the corresponding doors 105a and 102c do not operate based on the output values ​​of the door opening / closing sensors, it outputs a signal (alarm signal) to notify the occurrence of a malfunction in the corresponding doors 105a and 102c in the elevator 101.

[0242] When the call button on the intercom terminal device 102b is operated, it outputs a call signal to the remote monitoring support device 120 indicating that the operation has occurred. When the call signal output from the intercom terminal device 102b is input to the voice communication board 122, the remote monitoring support device 120 sends the call signal to the telephone 140 via the public voice network 170 or PBX 205. This enables voice communication (talk) between the intercom terminal device 102b and the telephone 140.

[0243] The intercom terminal device 102b outputs the audio signal input to the microphone to the remote monitoring support device 120 (voice communication board 122) when a connection is established between the remote monitoring support device 120 (voice communication board 122) and the telephone 140 installed at the maintenance company 150. Furthermore, the intercom terminal device 102b outputs the audio signal output from the remote monitoring support device 120 via the speaker when a connection is established between the remote monitoring support device 120 (voice communication board 122) and the telephone 140.

[0244] The remote monitoring support device 120 acquires floor signals output from the control panel 105b of the landing 105 as a result of the operation of each part in response to the control signals output from the control board 110 to the control panel 105b of the landing 105. The remote monitoring support device 120 then generates notification information based on the acquired floor signals and other information, and transmits the generated notification information to the management server computer 130. The notification information includes, for example, the direction of elevation of the car 102, the floor to which the car 102 will move, whether or not the car 102 has stopped at the destination floor, whether or not the motors that open and close the doors 105a and 102c are operating, the floor where the car 102 is currently located, whether or not various safety devices are operating, and identification information of the elevator 101 that is the source of the notification information.

[0245] The identification information for elevator 101 may be, for example, the serial number of elevator 101, a number set based on the installation location (address, etc.) of elevator 101, or a number arbitrarily set by a worker performing maintenance and inspection of elevator 101. The identification information for elevator 101 can be composed of a predetermined number of digits and letters such as the alphabet.

[0246] The main control board 121 of the remote monitoring support device 120 can be composed of, for example, a relay board 201, a monitoring and control board 202, a memory 203, and a communication I / F (interface) 204. The relay board 201 in the remote monitoring support device 120 is directly connected to the control panel 105b of the landing 105 via wiring 200.

[0247] Specifically, the relay board 201 can be connected to the control board 110 via a contact point between the relay board 201 and the pins of the IC chip provided on the control panel 105b of the landing 105 (wiring connecting the control panel 105b of the landing 105 and the IC chip). In this case, the contact point may be provided on the pins for signals input from the control board 110 to the IC chip (wiring connecting the control board 110 and the IC chip), or on the pins for signals output from the IC chip to the control board 110 (wiring connecting the control board 110 and the IC chip).

[0248] If the control panel 105b of the landing 105 includes an LED that indicates the floor where the elevator car 102 is currently located, the relay board 201 in the remote monitoring support device 120 may, for example, be equipped with a photoelectric sensor (not shown) whose output changes in accordance with the on / off state of the LED, and the relay board 201 is connected to the photoelectric sensor, and the floor signal is obtained by acquiring the output value of the photoelectric sensor via the relay board 201 on the main control board 121.

[0249] Alternatively, if the control panel 105b for the landing 105 does not include an LED to indicate the floor where the elevator car 102 is currently located, the relay board 201 in the remote monitoring support device 120 may be connected to a board that outputs a signal to control the on / off state of the LEDs for the display board, and the floor signal may be obtained by acquiring the output value output from the board that outputs the signal to control the on / off state of the LEDs to the display board in the main control board 121.

[0250] Furthermore, the relay board 201 in the remote monitoring support device 120 is connected to a connection terminal 121a that is connected to the control board 110. The connection terminal 121a is not limited to being integrally provided on the relay board 201. The connection terminal 121a only needs to be electrically connected to the relay board 201 (or its input terminal), and can be realized, for example, by a connector that is provided separately from the relay board 201 and connected to the relay board 201 by wiring 121b.

[0251] The remote monitoring support device 120 is provided on the control board 110 and connected to the control board 110 by connecting a connection terminal 121a to a terminal 110a (hereinafter referred to as the "maintenance and inspection terminal") on the control board 110, to which a diagnostic terminal device can be connected. The connection terminal 121a and the maintenance and inspection terminal 110a are connected in a way that allows them to be separated.

[0252] Specifically, for example, the remote monitoring support device 120 and the control board 110 can be connected or disconnected by inserting or removing a connector (male or female) that provides connection terminal 121a into a connector (female or male) that provides maintenance terminal 110a. By using connectors for connection terminal 121a and maintenance terminal 110a, the remote monitoring support device 120 and the control board 110 can be easily connected, and the remote monitoring support device 120 can be easily removed when it needs to be removed.

[0253] For example, if the control board 110 outputs control signals to various parts of the elevator 101 based on signals output from a diagnostic terminal device, and the elevator 101 does not perform the operation in accordance with the control signals, the control board 110 determines that an abnormality has occurred in the elevator 101 and outputs a signal (an alert signal) to notify the occurrence of an abnormality in the elevator 101.

[0254] The control board 110 outputs an alarm signal to the remote monitoring support device 120, for example, via the maintenance terminal 110a, to notify it of the occurrence of an abnormality. Signals output from the control board 110 via the maintenance terminal 110a, such as the alarm signal, are input to the remote monitoring support device 120 from the relay board 201.

[0255] The relay board 201 analyzes the input signal and outputs the analysis result to the monitoring and control board 202. The monitoring and control board 202 generates notification information based on the analysis result output from the relay board 201 and transmits the generated notification information to the management server computer 130 via the communication interface 204. The monitoring and control board 202 also stores the analysis result output from the relay board 201 in the memory 203. The monitoring and control board 202 may also directly store the signal received by the relay board 201 in the memory 203.

[0256] Memory 203 can be implemented using a non-volatile storage medium that retains stored information even when the power supply is cut off. Specifically, memory 203 can be, for example, flash memory, EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), or EPROM (Erasable This can be achieved using methods such as Programmable Read-Only Memory.

[0257] The various signals output from the control board 110 differ depending on the model of the elevator 101. The relay board 201 converts the various signals output from the control board 110 into a format that the monitoring control board 202 can process during analysis. The remote monitoring support device 120 analyzes the signals received by the relay board 201 and converts them into a format that the monitoring control board 202 can process, thereby enabling remote monitoring of the elevator 101 regardless of the model of the elevator 101.

[0258] Furthermore, the remote monitoring support device 120 outputs various operation command signals to the control board 110 via a relay board 201 controlled by the monitoring control board 202 on the main control board 121. The remote monitoring support device 120 outputs operation command signals when driving and controlling each part of the elevator 101 via the control board 110. Operation command signals can be realized by signals (such as call signals) similar to the signals output from the control panel 102a or the control panel 105b of the landing 105 when an input operation instructing movement to a predetermined floor is received at the control panel 102a or the control panel 105b of the landing 105. Specifically, operation command signals include signals to move the elevator car 102 of the elevator 101 to a predetermined floor, to stop the moved car 102 at the corresponding floor, and to open and close the doors 102c of the car 102 and the doors 105a of the landing 105 at the floor where it is stopped.

[0259] When the control board 110 receives an operation command signal output from the main control board 121, it generates various control signals based on the received operation command signal and outputs the generated control signals to each part of the elevator 101. The main control board 121 receives various operation command signals output from the monitoring control board 202 via the relay board 201, for example, via the maintenance and inspection terminal 110a provided in the elevator 101 to the control board 110. Enter the information.

[0260] The terminal 110a for maintenance inspection is provided on the control board 110. Alternatively, the terminal 110a for maintenance inspection may be electrically connected to the input terminal of the control board 110 and may be separate from the control board 110. The terminal for maintenance inspection is provided, for example, for connecting a terminal device (terminal for maintenance diagnosis) used for the maintenance inspection work when an operator performs maintenance inspection work at the site where the elevator 101 is installed. The terminal 110a for maintenance inspection is not limited to the elevator 101 installed for the purpose of remote monitoring, and a wide variety of elevators 101, regardless of whether they are newly installed, existing, or new and old, are generally equipped with it.

[0261] Further, the remote monitoring support device 120 receives various instruction signals transmitted from the management server computer 130 via the communication I / F 204. The management server computer 130 outputs an instruction signal to the remote monitoring support device 120, for example, when an operator's input operation to the management server computer 13 is received at the maintenance management company 150.

[0262] Specifically, the management server computer 130 transmits an instruction signal (transmission instruction of notification information) instructing the transmission of notification information regarding the result of the diagnostic operation executed in the elevator 101, for example, according to the input operation received in the management server computer 130. In this case, in addition to the transmission instruction of the notification information, the management server computer 130 transmits an execution instruction of the diagnostic operation to the elevator 101.

[0263] The diagnostic operation is realized by outputting a signal for operating each part provided in the elevator 101 from the control board 110 in a predetermined order, and outputting a signal from the control board 110 indicating whether each part has operated normally according to the output signal. The management server computer 130 may output the next diagnostic instruction at regular intervals, that is, when a predetermined time has elapsed after outputting the diagnostic instruction (for example, every predetermined period such as every month).

[0264] Specifically, for example, the management server computer 130 may transmit an instruction signal (transmission instruction for notification information) that instructs the transmission of notification information regarding the history of operation actions stored in the control board 110 in response to an input operation received by the management server computer 130 or periodically. The notification information regarding the history of operation actions can be realized by information such as the number of startups, the traveling distance of the cage 102, the traveling time of the cage 102, and the number of operations of various relays that operate during the lifting and lowering operations of the cage 102 and the opening and closing operations of the doors 105a and 102c.

[0265] When the remote monitoring support device 120 receives various instruction signals transmitted from the management server computer 130, it generates the above-described operation command signal based on the received instruction signal and outputs the generated operation command signal to the control board 110. Further, when the remote monitoring support device 120 obtains a signal (such as a control signal) output from the control board 110 as a result of outputting an operation command signal based on various instruction signals transmitted from the management server computer 130 to the control board 110, it generates response information based on the signal and outputs the generated response information to the management server computer 130.

[0266] The management server computer 130 generates report information based on the response information transmitted from the remote monitoring support device 120 in response to various instruction signals transmitted to the remote monitoring support device 120. For example, the management server computer 130 generates report information based on the notification information received from the remote monitoring support device 120 as a result of transmitting a diagnosis instruction and a transmission instruction for notification information. In this case, the management server computer 130 generates, for example, report information including information regarding the traveling distance and the number of startups of the elevator 101. ーター101の走行距離や起動回数に関する情報を含む報告書情報を生成する。

[0267] Furthermore, the management server computer 130 has a function to issue reports (not shown in the diagram) based on the generated report information. Reports can be issued, for example, each time the elevator 101 is made to perform a diagnostic operation, that is, each time response information is received in response to an instruction signal (diagnostic instruction) that instructs the remote monitoring support device 120 to perform a diagnostic operation.

[0268] Specifically, the management server computer 130 generates print information for printing the generated report information onto a recording medium such as paper, based on the generated report information, and outputs the generated print information to the operation terminal device 131 connected to the management server computer 130. When the operation terminal device 131 receives the print information, it can issue the report by driving and controlling the printer connected to the operation terminal device 131.

[0269] (Functional configuration of remote monitoring system 100) Next, the functional configuration of the remote monitoring system 100 according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention will be described. Figure 14 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the remote monitoring support device 120 that constitutes the remote monitoring system 100 according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention.

[0270] (Functional configuration of the remote monitoring support device 120) In Figure 14, each function of the remote monitoring support device 120 for the elevator 101 according to Embodiment 4 of this invention is realized by a receiving unit 301, a storage unit 302, a generation unit 303, an output unit 304, an acquisition unit 305, a judgment unit 306, and a transmission unit 307. The functions of the receiving unit 301, storage unit 302, generation unit 303, output unit 304, acquisition unit 305, judgment unit 306, and transmission unit 307 of the remote monitoring support device 120 for the elevator 101 according to this embodiment of the invention can be realized by each of the parts provided by the remote monitoring support device 120.

[0271] The receiving unit 301 receives various instruction signals transmitted from the management server computer 130. For example, the receiving unit 301 receives a transmission instruction for notification information transmitted from the management server computer 130. When the receiving unit 301 receives a diagnostic instruction, the storage unit 302 stores information regarding the date and time the diagnostic instruction was received. This makes it possible to periodically monitor the operation of the elevator 101 without communicating with the management server computer 130.

[0272] When the receiving unit 301 receives a transmission instruction, the generation unit 303 generates an operation command signal that causes the elevator 101 to perform the above-mentioned diagnostic operation. The generation unit 303 generates an operation command signal that has been converted by the relay board 201 into a format that the control board 110 can analyze. When the receiving unit 301 receives a transmission instruction, the generation unit 303 generates an operation command signal that includes an instruction to output signals that cause each part of the elevator 101 to operate in a predetermined order.

[0273] Specifically, the generation unit 303 generates operation command signals that cause the control board 110 to drive and control, for example, the motor that raises and lowers the elevator car 102 of the elevator 101, the brake that stops the car 102 while it is being raised or lowered, and the motors that open and close the doors 105a and 102c of the landing 105 and the car 102.

[0274] When the receiving unit 301 receives a transmission instruction, the output unit 304 outputs an operation command signal to the control board 110 that causes the elevator 101 to perform the above-mentioned diagnostic operation. In this embodiment, the output unit 304 outputs to the control board 110 the operation command signal generated by the generation unit 303 Outputs a command signal.

[0275] The output unit 304 outputs an operation command signal via a maintenance and inspection terminal 110a, to which a maintenance and diagnostic terminal used by workers during on-site inspection work is connected. The operation command signal output by the output unit 304 is converted by the relay board 201 into a format that the control board 110 can analyze, so that the control board 110 can perform a diagnostic operation, just as if a signal to perform a diagnostic operation were directly input from a maintenance and diagnostic terminal.

[0276] The output unit 304 may output an operation command signal via the maintenance terminal 110a to execute the next diagnostic operation, not only when the receiving unit 301 receives a transmission instruction, but also when a predetermined time has elapsed since outputting an operation command signal to the control board 110. Specifically, for example, based on the date and time information stored in the storage unit 302, the output unit 304 outputs an operation command signal via the maintenance terminal 110a to execute the next diagnostic operation when one month has elapsed since outputting an instruction to execute a diagnostic operation.

[0277] This allows the control board 110 to periodically output an operation command signal to perform a diagnostic operation without communicating with the management server computer 130. This reduces the burden on communication while allowing the elevator 101 to perform diagnostic operations periodically.

[0278] The acquisition unit 305 acquires signals output from the control board 110 to the outside of the control board 110. For example, the acquisition unit 305 acquires control signals output from the control board 110 to each part of the elevator 101 in response to an operation command signal output by the output unit 304 that causes a diagnostic operation to be performed.

[0279] Furthermore, the acquisition unit 305 acquires signals input to and output from the control panel 105b of the landing 105 on each floor, for example. Specifically, the acquisition unit 305 acquires signals input from the control board 110 to the control panel 105b of the landing 105 on each floor, and signals output from the control panel 105b of the landing 105 on each floor to the control board 110, for example, via the circuit board 123 and wiring 200.

[0280] More specifically, the acquisition unit 305 acquires floor signals output from the control panel 105b of each landing 105 to the control board 110 when a predetermined input operation is received at the control panel 105b of each floor landing 105. Alternatively, the acquisition unit 305 may acquire control signals output from the control board 110 to the control panel 105b of each landing 105 in response to the floor signals output from the control panel 105b of each landing 105.

[0281] In this way, the acquisition unit 305 acquires bidirectional signals: a signal (downbound signal) output from the control board 110 to the control panel 105b of the landing 105 on each floor, and a signal (upbound signal) output from the control panel 105b of the landing 105 on each floor to the control board 110. The position where the acquisition unit 305 acquires the upbound signal and the position where the acquisition unit 305 acquires the downbound signal may be the same or different.

[0282] Furthermore, the acquisition unit 305 may acquire an alarm signal output from the control board 110 to the operation panel 105b of the landing 105, for example, when the operating mode of the elevator 101 switches from the normal operating mode to the earthquake operating mode due to the detection of an earthquake of a predetermined seismic intensity or higher. In addition, if a malfunction occurs in the elevator 101, for example, when the control board 305 outputs a control signal to the motor that raises and lowers the elevator car 102, but the floor signal indicating the position of the car 102 does not switch, the acquisition unit 305 may notify the control board 110 of the occurrence of the malfunction to the outside. The alarm signals output from 110 to the control panel 105b of the landing 105 may be acquired. These alarm signals can be acquired, for example, via the maintenance and inspection terminal 110a.

[0283] The generation unit 303 generates notification information, including information about the status of the elevator 101, based on the signals acquired by the acquisition unit 305. For example, the generation unit 303 generates notification information indicating that the elevator 101 is operating normally, based on control signals output from the control board 110. The generation unit 303 also generates notification information indicating the floor where the elevator car 102 of the elevator 101 is currently located, based on floor signals output from the control board 110. Furthermore, the generation unit 303 generates notification information indicating that the current operating mode of the elevator 101 has switched or that a malfunction has occurred in the elevator 101, based on alarm signals output from the control board 110.

[0284] The generation unit 303 generates notification information each time the acquisition unit 305 acquires a signal. Alternatively, the generation unit 303 may generate notification information when, for example, the acquisition unit 305 acquires a specific signal. Specifically, the generation unit 303 may generate notification information when, for example, the acquisition unit 305 acquires an alarm signal indicating that the current operating mode of the elevator 101 has switched.

[0285] The transmitting unit 307 transmits the notification information generated by the generation unit 303 to the management server computer 130. The transmitting unit 307 transmits the notification information to the management server computer 130 each time the generation unit 303 generates notification information. Alternatively, the transmitting unit 307 may transmit the notification information to the management server computer 130 when the generation unit 303 generates specific notification information. Specifically, for example, when the generation unit 303 generates notification information based on an alarm signal indicating that the current operating mode of the elevator 101 has switched, the transmitting unit 307 may transmit the notification information to the management server computer 130.

[0286] The remote monitoring support device 120 according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention may further determine, by the determination unit 306, whether the operating state of the elevator 101 is a normal operating state based on the signal acquired by the acquisition unit 305. When it is not in the normal operating state, notification information including information regarding the state of the elevator 101 may be generated and transmitted to the management server computer 130. Thereby, the operator can quickly grasp that the operating state of the elevator 101 is not the normal operating state, and can quickly take measures to maintain the elevator 101 in a good state, such as arranging an inspection worker as needed. Thereby, the reliability of the elevator 101 can be improved, the safety of the user can be ensured, and the user can use the elevator 101 with confidence.

[0287] (Processing procedure of the remote monitoring support device 120) Next, the processing procedure of the remote monitoring support device 120 according to Embodiment4 of the present invention will be described. FIGS. 15 and 16 are flowcharts showing the processing procedure of the remote monitoring support device 120 according to Embodiment4 of the present invention. In the flowchart of FIG. 15, first, wait until a signal input to and output from the operation panel 105b of the landing 105 is acquired. In step S1501, wait until a signal input from the control board 110 to the operation panel 105b of the landing 105 or a signal output from the operation panel 105b of the landing 105 to the control board 110 is acquired.

[0288] In step S1501, when a signal input to and output from the operation panel 105b of the landing 105 is acquired (step S1501: Yes), it is determined whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the signal output from the operation panel 105b of the landing 105 was last acquired (step S 1502). In step S1502, for example, a predetermined time is set to a time sufficient to determine that the car 102 is stopped, and it is determined whether or not this predetermined time has elapsed since the last time a signal was received from the control panel 105b of the landing 105 was received. Specifically, for example, the time required to open and close the doors 105a and 102c can be set as the predetermined time.

[0289] In step S1502, if a predetermined time has not elapsed since the last time a signal was received from the control panel 105b of the landing 105 (step S1502: No), the process returns to step S1501 to determine whether or not a signal was received from the control panel 105b of the landing 105. On the other hand, if a predetermined time has elapsed since the last time a signal was received from the control panel 105b of the landing 105 (step S1502: Yes), notification information is generated based on the signals received from the control panel 105b of the landing 105 that were received before the predetermined time elapsed in step S1502: Yes (step S1503). This ensures that if the floor level is continuously changing, i.e., moving across multiple floor levels, notification information is not generated until the car 102 stops, and notification information is generated when the car 102 stops.

[0290] Subsequently, the notification information generated in step S1503 is sent to the management server computer 130 (step S1504), and the series of processes is terminated. In step S1504, the notification information generated in step S1503 is sent from the communication I / F 204 to the management server computer 130 via the network 160, such as the Internet.

[0291] On the other hand, if the signal output from the control panel 105b of the landing 105 has not been acquired in step S1501 (step S1501: No), it is determined whether or not the alarm signal output via the maintenance terminal 110a has been acquired (step S1505). If the alarm signal output via the maintenance terminal 110a has not been acquired in step S1505 (step S1505: No), the process returns to step S1501. If the alarm signal output via the maintenance terminal 110a has been acquired in step S1505 (step S1505: Yes), the process proceeds to step S1503.

[0292] In the flowchart of Figure 16, first, it is determined whether or not a transmission instruction for notification information sent from the management server computer 130 has been received (step S1601). If, in step S1601, a transmission instruction for notification information sent from the management server computer 130 has been received (step S1601: Yes), then an operation command signal is generated to cause the elevator 101 to perform a diagnostic operation based on the received transmission instruction (step S1602).

[0293] Then, the operation command signal generated in step S1602 is output to the control board 110 (step S1603), and the process moves to step S1604. In step S1603, for example, the operation command signal generated in step S1602 is output via the connection terminal 121a provided on the control board 110 for connecting a maintenance diagnostic terminal.

[0294] Subsequently, in step S1604, the system waits until it receives signals input to and output from the control panel 105b of the landing 105 (step S1604: No). In step S1604, the system waits until it receives, for example, a control signal output from the control board 110 to the control panel 105b of the landing 105 in response to the operation command signal output in step S1603 (a signal input to the control panel 105b of the landing 105), or a signal output from the control panel 105b of the landing 105 as a result of the operation of various parts of the elevator 101 in accordance with said control signal.

[0295] In step S1604, if signals input to and output to the control panel 105b of the landing 105 are acquired (step S1604: Yes), notification information is generated based on the acquired control signals (step S1605). In step S1605, for example, in response to the operation command signal output in step S1603, the control board 110 generates notification information indicating whether or not the control board 110 controlled each part of the elevator 101 as instructed by the operation command signal, based on the control signals output to each part of the elevator 101.

[0296] Then, the notification information generated in step S1605 is sent to the management server computer 130 (step S1606), and the series of processes is completed. In step S1606, the notification information generated in step S1605 is sent from the communication I / F 204 to the management server computer 130 via the network 160, such as the Internet.

[0297] On the other hand, if in step S1601 the instruction to send notification information sent from the management server computer 130 has not been received (step S1601: No), it is determined whether a predetermined amount of time has elapsed since the last time the operation command signal to perform a diagnostic operation on the elevator 101 was sent to the control board 110 (step S1607). In step S1607, if a predetermined amount of time has not elapsed since the last time the operation command signal to perform a diagnostic operation on the elevator 101 was sent (step S1607: No), the process returns to step S1601 and it is determined whether or not the instruction to send notification information sent from the management server computer 130 has been received.

[0298] In step S1607, if a predetermined time has elapsed since the last transmission of an operation command signal to perform a diagnostic operation on elevator 101 (step S1607: Yes), the process proceeds to step S1602, where an operation command signal to perform a diagnostic operation on elevator 101 is generated. In this case, in step S1602, for example, an operation command signal to perform a diagnostic operation on elevator 101 is generated based on information previously stored in the remote monitoring support device 120.

[0299] As described above, the remote monitoring support device 120 of this embodiment 4 is a remote monitoring support device 120 that communicates with the control board 110 and the management server computer 130, respectively, which control the operation of the elevator 101. The device acquires signals output from the control board 110 to the operation panels 105b (operation panel 105b of the landing 105) provided at each landing 105 of the elevator 101, and signals output from the operation panels 105b of the landing 105 to the control board 110 in accordance with the operation of the elevator 101 in response to said signals. Based on the acquired signals, it generates notification information regarding the status of the elevator 101 and transmits the generated notification information to the management server computer 130.

[0300] According to the remote monitoring support device 120 of this embodiment 4, by transmitting notification information based on signals output from the control board 110 to the operation panel 105b of the landing 105, and signals output from the operation panel 105b of the landing 105 to the control board 110 in accordance with the operation of the elevator 101 in response to the control signals, remote monitoring can be performed not only on elevators 101 equipped with a control board 110 that has a communication function with external devices installed in remote locations, but also on elevators 101 equipped with a control board 110 that does not have such a communication function.

[0301] This allows for remote monitoring of the elevator 101 regardless of whether the elevator 101 itself has a communication function, thereby improving the reliability of the elevator 101. This will ensure the safety of users and allow them to use elevator 101 with peace of mind.

[0302] Furthermore, according to the remote monitoring support device 120 of this embodiment 4, signals output from the control panel 105b of the landing 105 can be transmitted directly to the remote monitoring support device 120 without going through the control board 110. This improves the reliability of notification information transmitted to the management server computer 130 compared to cases where a control board 110 or other relay devices are provided. This also further improves the reliability of the elevator 101, ensures greater safety for users, and allows users to use the elevator 101 with peace of mind.

[0303] Furthermore, by transmitting information directly from the control panel 105b (signal line 111) of the landing 105 to the remote monitoring support device 120 without going through the control board 110, the processing burden on the control board 110 can be reduced compared to the case where information regarding the status of the elevator 101 is acquired via the control board 110.

[0304] Furthermore, the remote monitoring support device 120 of this embodiment 4 is characterized in that, upon receiving a diagnostic instruction from the management server computer 130 that instructs the transmission of notification information, it outputs an instruction to the control board 110 to perform a diagnostic operation to diagnose the operating status of the elevator 101, and acquires the control signals output from the control board 110 to each part of the elevator 101 that are output to the operation panel 105b of the landing 105, and the signals output from the operation panel 105b of the landing 105 to the control board 110 in response to said control signals.

[0305] According to the remote monitoring support device 120 of this embodiment 4, when a diagnostic operation is performed on the control board 110 in response to instructions from the management server computer 130, the control board 110 transmits to the management server computer 130 notification information based on the control signals output to the operation panel 105b of the landing 105 from among the control signals output to each part of the elevator 101, and the signals output from the operation panel 105b of the landing 105b to the control board 110 in response to said control signals, thereby enabling remote monitoring of the elevator 101.

[0306] This allows remote monitoring of the elevator 101 to be performed at any time set on the management server computer 130, thereby improving the reliability of the elevator 101, ensuring the safety of users, and allowing users to use the elevator 101 with peace of mind.

[0307] Furthermore, the remote monitoring support device 120 of this embodiment 4 is characterized by outputting instructions to the control board 110 to perform a diagnostic operation via a maintenance terminal 110a to which a portable terminal device that outputs instructions to perform a diagnostic operation to the control board 110 can be connected.

[0308] According to the remote monitoring support device 120 of this embodiment 4, by outputting a diagnostic operation execution instruction via the conventional maintenance and inspection terminal 110a at the site where the elevator 101 is installed, the control board 110 can be easily made to execute a diagnostic operation without having to newly provide a mechanism for inputting a diagnostic operation execution instruction to the control board 110. This improves the reliability of the elevator 101, ensures the safety of users, and allows users to use the elevator 101 with peace of mind.

[0309] Furthermore, the remote monitoring support device 120 of this embodiment 4 is characterized in that it outputs the next instruction to execute a diagnostic operation when a predetermined time has elapsed since the output of the instruction to execute a diagnostic operation. Yes, they are.

[0310] According to the remote monitoring support device 120 of this embodiment 4, the status of the elevator 101 can be grasped at predetermined intervals regardless of whether or not a diagnostic instruction is sent from the management server computer 130. This makes it possible to reduce the processing load on the management server computer 130 for remote monitoring of the elevator 101 while improving the reliability of the elevator 101.

[0311] <Embodiment 5> Next, a remote monitoring system for an elevator according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention will be described. In Embodiment 5, the same parts as those in Embodiments 1 to 4 described above are indicated by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0312] (System configuration of the remote monitoring system) First, the system configuration of the remote monitoring system for an elevator, which includes the remote monitoring support device of Embodiment 5 according to this invention, will be described. Figure 17 is an explanatory diagram showing the system configuration of the remote monitoring system of Embodiment 5 according to this invention.

[0313] In Figure 17, the remote monitoring system 100 of Embodiment 5 according to this invention can be configured, for example, with a control board (control device) 110, a remote monitoring support device 120, a management server computer 130, and a telephone 140. The remote monitoring system 100 monitors the operation of the elevator 101 using a management server computer 130 installed at a remote location of the elevator 101. The management server computer 130 monitors the operation of the elevator 101 via the remote monitoring support device 120.

[0314] The management server computer 130 is installed in a remote location, separate from the location where the elevator 101 to be monitored is installed. Specifically, the management server computer 130 can be installed, for example, at a maintenance company 150 responsible for the maintenance and management of the elevator 101.

[0315] Telephone 140 is installed, for example, at the maintenance company 150 where the management server computer 130 is installed. By installing the management server computer 130 and telephone 140 at the maintenance company 150, a person inside the elevator car 102 of elevator 101 can communicate directly with an operator at the maintenance company 150.

[0316] Elevator 101 is installed in multi-story buildings and is equipped with a car (roof) 102 for carrying people and goods. One car 102 is provided for each elevator 101. The car 102 is installed in a hoistway (not shown) that penetrates each floor of the building vertically. Elevator 101 can be implemented, for example, by a rope-type (traction-type) elevator.

[0317] The elevator 101 that can be monitored by the remote monitoring system 100 according to this embodiment of the invention is not limited to a rope-type elevator. In the remote monitoring system according to this embodiment of the invention, instead of the rope-type elevator 101, or in addition to the rope-type elevator, for example, a hydraulic elevator 101 may also be the object of monitoring.

[0318] The elevator car 102 is equipped with an operation panel 102a (hereinafter referred to as "operation panel 102a of elevator car 102" as appropriate), which includes operation buttons such as destination floor buttons and door opening / closing buttons, and a display that shows the floor level on which the elevator car 102 is located. The operation buttons output signals corresponding to the input operations received by the operation buttons. The display can be implemented by various known display devices that show, for example, the floor level on which the elevator car 102 is located.

[0319] The control panel 102a of the elevator car 102 is equipped with a control board for the control panel 102a, and is connected to the control board 110 via the control panel 102a. Specifically, the control board for the control panel 102a of the elevator car 102 can consist of, for example, an operation board that outputs signals to the control board 110 corresponding to input operations received by operation buttons, and a display board that controls the display. In this case, the control board 110 receives signals output from the operation board. In this case, the control board 110 also outputs a signal to the display board indicating the floor on which the elevator car 102 is located.

[0320] Alternatively, the control board for the control panel 102a of the cage 102 is not limited to being composed of an operation board and a display board, but may be implemented by the operation board alone.

[0321] Alternatively, the control panel 102a of the cage 102 may be implemented using only an operation board and a display board, without including operation buttons or indicators.

[0322] Furthermore, the cage 102 is equipped with an intercom terminal device 102b. The intercom terminal device 102b includes a call button, a microphone, and a speaker (all of which are not shown in the illustration). The intercom terminal device 102b is connected to the remote monitoring support device 120.

[0323] The hoistway is equipped with a drive mechanism 104 that is involved in the raising and lowering operation of the elevator car 102. The drive mechanism 104 can be installed, for example, at the top of the hoistway. The drive mechanism 104 consists of a hoisting machine, pulleys, rope 104a, counterweight 104b, etc. The drive mechanism 104 is further equipped with an electromagnetic brake and a speed governor (these are not shown in the figures). The drive mechanism 104 can be easily realized using known technology, so its description is omitted. The drive mechanism 104 is not limited to being installed at the top of the hoistway. For example, in the case of a hydraulic elevator 101, the drive mechanism 104 may be installed at the bottom (pit) of the hoistway.

[0324] The cage 102 is connected to one end of the rope 104a, and the counterweight 104b is connected to the other end of the rope 104a. In the rope-type elevator 101, the rope 104a, to which the cage 102 and counterweight 104b are connected at both ends, is hung in a well-belt fashion on a pulley and a hoisting machine, and the hoisting machine is driven, using the frictional force (traction) between the rope 104a and the pulley to raise and lower the cage 102. Guide rails (not shown) are provided in the hoistway to guide the raising and lowering position of the cage 102.

[0325] Doors 105a and 102c are provided at positions (landings) 105 and the elevator car 102 corresponding to each floor level in the elevator shaft. The elevator car 102 is equipped with a motor (not shown) that opens and closes the door 102c on the elevator car 102 and the door 105a on the landing 105. The motors that open and close the doors 105a and 102c are controlled by a control board It is connected to 110.

[0326] The door 105a at landing 105 is locked by a device called an interlock. When the motor is driven while elevator 101 has arrived at a stopping floor, the drive mechanism of the door 102c on the car 102 engages with the interlock, releasing the lock, and the door 102c on the car 102 and the door 105a on landing 105 open and close in conjunction.

[0327] Elevator 101 is equipped with a door open / close sensor (not shown) that detects the opening and closing of doors 102c and 105a. The output of the door open / close sensor changes depending on whether doors 102c and 105a are open or closed. The door open / close sensor can be implemented, for example, by a microswitch or a photoelectric sensor. The door open / close sensor is connected to the control board 110 via wiring, and the signal output from the door open / close sensor is input to the control board 110 via the wiring.

[0328] Each elevator landing 105 is equipped with an operation panel 105b (hereinafter referred to as "operation panel 105b for landing 105") which includes an elevator landing call button (not shown in the illustration) and a display that shows the floor level where the elevator car 102 is located. Each operation panel 105b for landing 105 is equipped with a control board and is connected to the control board 110 via a control board for that particular operation panel 105b.

[0329] The control panel 105b for each landing 105 may include a display board that indicates the floor level on which the elevator car 102 is located by illuminating an LED or the like. Alternatively, the control panel 105b for each landing 105 may not include a display board that indicates the floor level on which the elevator car 102 is located, and may be implemented only by a board that outputs a signal to control the illumination / exiting of the LED on the display board.

[0330] The remote monitoring support device 120 can be mounted, for example, in the housing that houses the control board 110 of the elevator 101, or on the wall of the elevator shaft. The remote monitoring support device 120 includes a main control board 121 and an audio communication board 122. The main control board 121 is directly connected to the control panel 102a of the elevator car 102 via wiring 200, etc.

[0331] Specifically, the main control board 121 of the remote monitoring support device 120 includes, for example, a board 1701 that is attached to a signal line 111 connecting the operation panel 102a of the cage 102 and the control board 110, and acquires various signals transmitted by the signal line 111, and can be connected to the operation panel 102a of the cage 102 by connecting the board 1701 and the main control board 121 via wiring 200.

[0332] The main control board 121 acquires various signals output from the control panel 102a of the elevator car 102. For example, when a user of the elevator 101 performs an input operation on the control button on the control panel 102a of the elevator car 102, the main control board 121 acquires a call signal output from the control panel 102a of the elevator car 102 in response to that input operation.

[0333] Furthermore, the main control board 121 acquires various signals output from the control board 110 to the control panel 102a of the elevator car 102 (the control board for the control panel 102a of the elevator car 102). For example, in response to a call signal output from the control panel 102a of the elevator car 102, the main control board 121 acquires signals such as floor signals output to the control panel 102a of the elevator car 102, which are among the signals output by the control board 110 to various parts of the elevator car 101.

[0334] Furthermore, the main control board 121 is connected to the control board 110. A connection terminal 121a is connected to the control board 110. The connection terminal 121a can be implemented, for example, by a connector connected to the main control board 121 via wiring 121b or the like. The remote monitoring support device 120 is connected to the control board 110 by connecting the connection terminal 121a to a terminal 110a provided on the control board 110, to which a diagnostic terminal device can be connected (hereinafter referred to as the "maintenance and inspection terminal"), which is available on the control board 110. The connection terminal 121a and the maintenance and inspection terminal 110a are connected in a detachable manner.

[0335] The maintenance terminal 110a is provided, for example, for connecting a diagnostic terminal device (maintenance diagnostic terminal) used for maintenance work performed by a worker at the site where the elevator 101 is installed. The maintenance terminal 110a is not limited to elevators 101 installed for remote monitoring purposes, and is generally provided in a wide range of elevators 101, regardless of whether they are existing, newly installed, or old.

[0336] The diagnostic terminal device is portable and can be carried by a worker, and is used, for example, when a worker performs maintenance and inspection work at the site where the elevator 101 is installed. The diagnostic terminal device has a terminal that can be detachably connected to the maintenance and inspection terminal 110a. During maintenance and inspection work, the worker connects the terminal on the diagnostic terminal device to the maintenance and inspection terminal provided on the control board 110 and performs a predetermined input operation to the diagnostic terminal device. The diagnostic terminal device outputs a signal to the control board 110 in response to the input operation by the worker.

[0337] For example, when the control board 110 receives a signal output from a diagnostic terminal device during maintenance work, it operates various parts of the elevator 101 in accordance with the input signal and outputs a signal regarding the result of that operation to the diagnostic terminal device. Based on the signal regarding the operation result of the elevator 101 output from the control board 110, the diagnostic terminal device provides information indicating whether the elevator 101 operated normally in response to the input operation by the worker.

[0338] Furthermore, the main control board 121 is connected to the management server computer 130 via a network 160 such as the Internet. By connecting the main control board 121 and the management server computer 130 via the Internet rather than a public voice network 170 such as a telephone line, it is possible to prevent delays in assessing the status of the elevator 101 due to telephone line congestion in emergencies, and to take a quick response.

[0339] The voice communication board 122 is connected to the intercom terminal device 102b and the public voice network 170. Specifically, the voice communication board 122 can be implemented, for example, by a PHS (Personal Handy-phone System) board. The public voice network 170 includes a fixed telephone network (public switched telephone network) and a mobile phone network. The public voice network 170 is composed of multiple switches, not shown in the figures, such as subscriber line switches that accommodate telephone lines, relay switches that bundle subscriber line switches, and gateway switches that connect to the telephone networks of other operators. The public voice network 170 is a known technology, so no further explanation is given.

[0340] The main control board 121 may also communicate using the PHS board provided in the voice communication board 122. In this case, the remote monitoring support device 120 uses the PHS board for both voice communication and data communication. Since the elevator 101 is installed in a fixed location, using PHS for communication ensures communication quality and reduces communication costs.

[0341] The management server computer 130 is, for example, a computer such as a personal computer. This can be implemented by a data entry device. An operation terminal device 131 may be connected to the management server computer 130. The management server computer 130 and the operation terminal device 131 may be installed in the same location or in different locations. There may be one operation terminal device 131 or multiple operation terminal devices. The operation terminal device 131 can be implemented by a computer device such as a personal computer equipped with input devices such as a keyboard and mouse, and a display. In addition, a printer (not shown in the figure) for outputting reports describing the status of the elevator 101 may be connected to the operation terminal device 131.

[0342] In addition to the management server computer 130 and telephone 140, the maintenance company 150 may install a PBX (Private Branch eXchange, see reference numeral 205 in Figure 2). The telephone 140 is connected to the public voice network 170 via the PBX. In the remote monitoring system 100, a PBX may not be provided, and the telephone 140 may be connected directly to the public voice network 170.

[0343] (Hardware configuration of remote monitoring system 100) Next, the hardware configuration of the remote monitoring support device 120, which constitutes the remote monitoring system 100 of Embodiment 5 of this invention, will be described. Figure 18 is an explanatory diagram showing the hardware configuration of the remote monitoring support device 120, which constitutes the remote monitoring system 100 of Embodiment 5 of this invention.

[0344] In Figure 18, the control board 110 controls the operation of the elevator 101 by driving and controlling each component that makes up the elevator 101. The control board 110 outputs control signals to each component of the elevator 101 and controls the operation of the elevator 101 based on the signals output from each component.

[0345] The control board for the control panel 102a of the elevator car 102 generates a call signal corresponding to the input operation when it receives an input operation from an elevator user or the like, and outputs the generated call signal to the control board 110. The control board 110 controls the operation of the elevator 101 by outputting a control signal that drives the drive mechanism 104 based on the call signal output from the control board for the control panel 102a of the elevator car 102.

[0346] Specifically, the control board 110 generates a control signal for the motor that raises and lowers the car 102 based on a call signal output from the control board for the operation panel 102a of the car 102, and outputs the generated control signal to the motor that raises and lowers the car 102. As a result, the motor that raises and lowers the car 102 rotates in the direction of raising or lowering the car 102. The motor that raises and lowers the car 102 is controlled, for example, using an inverter, and is driven and controlled by the control board 110 to stop rotating at the floor where the car 102 is to be stopped.

[0347] The control board 110 obtains the rotational speed of each motor that operates according to the control signal it outputs to the motors that raise and lower the cage 102. The rotational speed of each motor can be obtained, for example, using an encoder. This allows the control board 110 to determine whether the motors that raise and lower the cage 102 operated normally according to the control signals it output to them.

[0348] Specifically, the control board 110 generates a control signal to activate the brakes to stop the car 102 at a predetermined floor, based on a call signal output from the control board for the operation panel 102a of the car 102, and the generated control signal is applied to the brakes. The brakes, in accordance with the control signals output from the control board 110, stop the elevator car 102 from moving up and down, and stop the car 102 at a predetermined floor level. This allows the car 102 to be stopped at a predetermined floor level.

[0349] Each time the control board 110 outputs a control signal to the brake, it acquires an output signal from a brake sensor whose output changes according to the operation of the brake. The brake sensor can be implemented as, for example, a microswitch or a photoelectric sensor. This allows the control board 110 to determine whether the brake has operated normally according to the control signal it has output to the brake.

[0350] Specifically, the control board 110 generates control signals to open and close doors 102c and 105a on the floor where the elevator car 102 is stopped by the brakes, based on a call signal output from the control board for the elevator car 102's control panel 102a. The generated control signals are then output to the motors that open and close the elevator car's door 102c and the landing door 105a. This allows the doors 102c and 105a to be opened and closed on the floor where the elevator car 102 is stopped. As described above, the motor that opens and closes door 105a is locked by a device called an interlock, so it will not operate if door 105a is not completely closed.

[0351] The control board 110 acquires the output signal from the door opening / closing sensor each time it outputs a control signal to the motors that open and close the doors 102c and 105a. This allows the control board 110 to determine whether the doors 102c and 105a have operated normally according to the control signal output to the motors that open and close the corresponding doors 102c and 105a.

[0352] Furthermore, the control board 110 outputs a control signal, including a floor signal indicating the floor on which the elevator car 102 is located, to the control board for the control panel 102a of the elevator car 102. The floor on which the elevator car 102 is located can be identified, for example, based on output signals from sensors (not shown) provided on each floor in the elevator shaft. When the control board for the control panel 102a of the elevator car 102 receives a control signal including the floor signal, it controls the display based on the received control signal to display the floor on which the elevator car 102 is located and its direction of movement (whether it is rising or descending).

[0353] The control board 110 outputs a control signal, including a floor signal, to the control board for the control panel 102a of the elevator car 102 and the control board for the control panel 105b of the landing 105, for example, each time the position of the elevator car 102 changes. Alternatively, the control board 110 may output a control signal, including a floor signal, to the control board for the control panel 102a of the elevator car 102 and the control board for the control panel 105b of the landing 105, for example, periodically, regardless of the position of the elevator car 102.

[0354] The control board for the control panel 105b of landing 105, similar to the control board for the control panel 102a of car 102, generates a call signal corresponding to the input operation when it receives input from a user of elevator 101 or the like to the landing call button, and outputs the generated call signal to the control board 110. When a call signal is output from the control board for the control panel 105b of landing 105, the control board 110, similar to when a signal is output from the control board for the control panel 102a of car 102, generates various control signals based on the signal output from the control board for the control panel 105b of landing 105, and controls the operation of elevator 101 by outputting the generated control signals to the corresponding parts.

[0355] The control board 110 is connected to the control panel 102a of the elevator car 102 and the control panel 105b of the landing 105, and outputs are received from the control panel 102a of the elevator car 102 and the control panel 105b of the landing 105. Each time the elevator car 102 is raised or lowered in response to a signal, the control board 110 outputs a start signal indicating that each part has been activated to raise or lower the elevator car 102. For example, if the elevator car moves from the first floor to the second floor, the control board 110 outputs a start signal once. Also, if the elevator car moves from the first floor to the fifth floor without stopping along the way, the control board 110 outputs a start signal once. Also, if the elevator car moves from the first floor to the fifth floor after stopping at the third floor (opening or closing the door), the control board 110 outputs a start signal twice.

[0356] The control board 110 may calculate the distance traveled and the travel time of the elevator car 102 each time the car is raised or lowered. The distance traveled by the elevator car 102 can be calculated, for example, based on the number of starts. The travel time of the elevator car 102 can be calculated, for example, based on the floor signals mentioned above. Specifically, for example, if the elevator car 102 is on the first floor and receives a call from the control panel 105b at the landing 105 on the fourth floor, the elevator car 102 will move three floors from the first floor to the fourth floor.

[0357] The control board 110 includes a memory (not shown) and stores in the memory the number of times the activation signal has been output, i.e., the number of activations, each time an activation signal is output. In addition to or instead of the number of activations, the control board 110 may also store in the memory a history of the operation of each part driven during the lifting and lowering of the car 102 and the opening and closing of the doors 105a and 102c. Specifically, the control board 110 may store in the memory, for example, information such as the number of activations, the distance traveled by the car 102, the travel time of the car 102, and the number of times various relays operated during the lifting and lowering of the car 102 and the opening and closing of the doors 105a and 102c, as a history of operation.

[0358] Furthermore, the control board 110 determines whether doors 102c and 105a are open or closed based on the output values ​​of the door opening / closing sensors. Based on the control signals for opening and closing doors 102c and 105a that it outputs and the output values ​​of the door opening / closing sensors, the control board 110 can determine whether doors 102c and 105a have actually been opened or closed in accordance with the output of the control signals for opening and closing doors 102c and 105a.

[0359] Furthermore, the control board 110 outputs a signal indicating that the operating mode of the elevator 101 has been switched when the operating mode of the elevator 101 changes. Specifically, the control board 110 outputs a signal to notify the outside that the operating mode has been switched, or a signal to notify the operating mode after the switch (that it is an operating mode other than the normal operating mode), for example, when the operating mode of the elevator 101 has been switched from an operating mode other than the normal operating mode to the normal operating mode. Also, specifically, the control board 110 outputs a signal to notify the outside that the operating mode has been switched, or a signal to notify the operating mode after the switch (that it is the normal operating mode) (an alarm signal), for example, when the operating mode of the elevator 101 has been switched from an operating mode other than the normal operating mode to the normal operating mode.

[0360] Furthermore, the control board 110 outputs a signal (alarm signal) to notify the occurrence of a malfunction in the elevator 101 when it detects a malfunction. Specifically, for example, if the control board 110 outputs a control signal to open or close doors 105a and 102c, but detects that the corresponding doors 105a and 102c do not operate based on the output values ​​of the door opening / closing sensors, it outputs a signal (alarm signal) to notify the occurrence of a malfunction in the corresponding doors 105a and 102c in the elevator 101.

[0361] When the call button is pressed, the intercom terminal device 102b outputs a call signal to the remote monitoring support device 120 indicating that the operation has occurred. When the call signal output from the intercom terminal device 102b is input to the voice communication board 122, the remote monitoring support device 120 sends the call signal to the telephone 140 via the public voice network 170 or PBX 205. The signal is transmitted. This enables voice communication (talk) between the intercom terminal device 102b and the telephone 140.

[0362] The intercom terminal device 102b outputs the audio signal input to the microphone to the remote monitoring support device 120 (voice communication board 122) when a connection is established between the remote monitoring support device 120 (voice communication board 122) and the telephone 140 installed at the maintenance company 150. Furthermore, the intercom terminal device 102b outputs the audio signal output from the remote monitoring support device 120 via the speaker when a connection is established between the remote monitoring support device 120 (voice communication board 122) and the telephone 140.

[0363] The remote monitoring support device 120 acquires floor signals output from the control panel 105b of the landing 105 as a result of the operation of each part in response to the control signals output from the control board 110 to the control panel 105b of the landing 105. The remote monitoring support device 120 then generates notification information based on the acquired floor signals and other information, and transmits the generated notification information to the management server computer 130. The notification information includes, for example, the direction of elevation of the car 102, the floor to which the car 102 will move, whether or not the car 102 has stopped at the destination floor, whether or not the motors that open and close the doors 105a and 102c are operating, the floor where the car 102 is currently located, whether or not various safety devices are operating, and identification information of the elevator 101 that is the source of the notification information.

[0364] The identification information for elevator 101 may be, for example, the serial number of elevator 101, a number set based on the installation location (address, etc.) of elevator 101, or a number arbitrarily set by a worker performing maintenance and inspection of elevator 101. The identification information for elevator 101 can be composed of a predetermined number of digits and letters such as the alphabet.

[0365] The main control board 121 of the remote monitoring support device 120 can be composed of, for example, a relay board 201, a monitoring and control board 202, a memory 203, and a communication I / F (interface) 204. The relay board 201 in the remote monitoring support device 120 is directly connected to the control panel 102a of the cage 102 via wiring 200.

[0366] Specifically, the relay board 201 can be connected to the control board 110 via a contact point between the control board 110 and the relay board 201, for example, by providing a contact point on the pins of an IC chip (wiring connecting the control board 102a and the IC chip) provided on the control board for the operation panel 102a of the cage 102. In this case, the contact point may be provided on the pins for signals input from the control board 110 to the IC chip (wiring connecting the control board 110 and the IC chip), or on the pins for signals output from the IC chip to the control board 110 (wiring connecting the control board 110 and the IC chip). In this case, the relay board 201 can acquire the call signal that is generated in response to input operations to the operation panel 102a of the cage 102 and output from the control board for the operation panel 102a of the cage 102 to the control board 110.

[0367] Alternatively, for example, the relay board 201 may be connected to the wiring that connects the control board for the operation panel 102a of the elevator car 102 and the display unit that shows the floor on which the elevator car 102 is located. In this case, the relay board 201 can, for example, acquire the floor signal indicating the floor on which the elevator car 102 is located, which is output from the control board 110 to the display unit via the control board for the operation panel 102a of the elevator car 102.

[0368] Furthermore, the relay board 201 in the remote monitoring support device 120 is connected to a connection terminal 121a that is connected to the control board 110. The connection terminal 121a is not limited to being integrally provided on the relay board 201. The connection terminal 121a only needs to be electrically connected to the relay board 201 (or its input terminal), and for example, it may be provided separately from the relay board 201. This can be achieved by a connector connected by a connecting board 201 and wiring 121b.

[0369] The remote monitoring support device 120 is provided on the control board 110 and connected to the control board 110 by connecting a connection terminal 121a to a terminal 110a (hereinafter referred to as the "maintenance and inspection terminal") on the control board 110, to which a diagnostic terminal device can be connected. The connection terminal 121a and the maintenance and inspection terminal 110a are connected in a way that allows them to be separated.

[0370] Specifically, for example, the remote monitoring support device 120 and the control board 110 can be connected or disconnected by inserting or removing a connector (male or female) that provides connection terminal 121a into a connector (female or male) that provides maintenance terminal 110a. By using connectors for connection terminal 121a and maintenance terminal 110a, the remote monitoring support device 120 and the control board 110 can be easily connected, and the remote monitoring support device 120 can be easily removed when it needs to be removed.

[0371] As a result, the remote monitoring support device 120 of this embodiment 5 is connected to the control board 110 via connection terminal 121a and maintenance terminal 110a, and is also connected to the control panel 102a of the cage 102 via wiring 200.

[0372] For example, if the control board 110 outputs control signals to various parts of the elevator 101 based on signals output from a diagnostic terminal device, and the elevator 101 does not perform the operation in accordance with the control signals, the control board 110 determines that an abnormality has occurred in the elevator 101 and outputs a signal (an alert signal) to notify the occurrence of an abnormality in the elevator 101.

[0373] The control board 110 outputs an alarm signal to the remote monitoring support device 120, for example, via the maintenance terminal 110a, to notify it of the occurrence of an abnormality. Signals output from the control board 110 via the maintenance terminal 110a, such as the alarm signal, are input to the remote monitoring support device 120 from the relay board 201.

[0374] The relay board 201 analyzes the input signal and outputs the analysis result to the monitoring and control board 202. The monitoring and control board 202 generates notification information based on the analysis result output from the relay board 201 and transmits the generated notification information to the management server computer 130 via the communication interface 204. The monitoring and control board 202 also stores the analysis result output from the relay board 201 in the memory 203. The monitoring and control board 202 may also directly store the signal received by the relay board 201 in the memory 203.

[0375] Memory 203 can be implemented using a non-volatile storage medium that retains stored information even when the power supply is cut off. Specifically, memory 203 can be, for example, flash memory, EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), or EPROM (Erasable This can be achieved using methods such as Programmable Read-Only Memory.

[0376] The various signals output from the control board 110 differ depending on the model of the elevator 101. The relay board 201 converts the various signals output from the control board 110 into a format that the monitoring control board 202 can process during analysis. The remote monitoring support device 120 analyzes the signals received by the relay board 201 and converts them into a format that the monitoring control board 202 can process, thereby enabling remote monitoring of the elevator 101 regardless of the model of the elevator 101.

[0377] Furthermore, the remote monitoring support device 120 outputs various operation command signals to the control board 110 via a relay board 201 controlled by the monitoring control board 202 on the main control board 121. The remote monitoring support device 120 outputs operation command signals when driving and controlling each part of the elevator 101 via the control board 110. Operation command signals can be realized by signals (such as call signals) similar to the signals output from the control panel 102a of the car 102 or the control panel 105b of the landing 105 when an input operation instructing movement to a predetermined floor is received at the control panel 105b of the car 102 or the landing 105. Specifically, operation command signals include signals to move the car 102 of the elevator 101 to a predetermined floor, to stop the moved car 102 at the corresponding floor, and to open and close the doors 102c of the car 102 and the doors 105a of the landing 105 at the floor where it is stopped.

[0378] When the control board 110 receives an operation command signal output from the main control board 121, it generates various control signals based on the received operation command signal and outputs the generated control signals to each part of the elevator 101. The main control board 121 inputs the various operation command signals output from the monitoring control board 202 via the relay board 201 to the control board 110, for example, via the maintenance and inspection terminal 110a provided in the elevator 101.

[0379] The maintenance terminal 110a is provided on the control board 110. Alternatively, the maintenance terminal 110a may be electrically connected to the input terminal of the control board 110 and be separate from the control board 110. The maintenance terminal 110a is provided, for example, for connecting a terminal device (maintenance diagnostic terminal) used for maintenance work performed by a worker at the site where the elevator 101 is installed. The maintenance terminal 110a is not limited to elevators 101 installed for remote monitoring purposes, and is generally provided in a wide range of elevators 101, regardless of whether they are existing, newly installed, or old.

[0380] Furthermore, the remote monitoring support device 120 receives various instruction signals transmitted from the management server computer 130 via the communication I / F 204. The management server computer 130 outputs an instruction signal to the remote monitoring support device 120 when it receives an input operation from an operator at the maintenance company 150.

[0381] Specifically, the management server computer 130, in response to an input operation received by the management server computer 130, transmits an instruction signal (notification information transmission instruction) that instructs the elevator 101 to transmit notification information regarding the results of a diagnostic operation performed on the elevator 101. In this case, in addition to the notification information transmission instruction, the management server computer 130 also transmits an instruction to the elevator 101 to execute a diagnostic operation.

[0382] The diagnostic operation is performed by having the control board 110 output signals to each part of the elevator 101 to operate each part in a predetermined order, and then having the control board 110 output signals indicating whether each part operated normally according to the output signals. The management server computer 130 may periodically, that is, after a predetermined time has elapsed since the output of a diagnostic instruction (at predetermined intervals such as every month), output the next diagnostic instruction.

[0383] Furthermore, specifically, the management server computer 130, for example, in response to input operations received by the management server computer 130, or periodically, communicates to the control board 110. The system may also send an instruction signal (instruction to send notification information) that instructs the system to send notification information regarding the history of operations stored in the system. The notification information regarding the history of operations can be realized by information such as the number of starts, the distance traveled by the car 102, the travel time of the car 102, and the number of times various relays operated during the lifting and lowering of the car 102 and the opening and closing of the doors 105a and 102c.

[0384] When the remote monitoring support device 120 receives various instruction signals transmitted from the management server computer 130, it generates the above-mentioned operation command signals based on the received instruction signals and outputs the generated operation command signals to the control board 110. Furthermore, when the remote monitoring support device 120 receives a signal (such as a control signal) output from the control board 110 as a result of outputting the operation command signals based on the various instruction signals transmitted from the management server computer 130, it generates response information based on that signal and outputs the generated response information to the management server computer 130.

[0385] The management server computer 130 generates report information based on response information transmitted from the remote monitoring support device 120 in response to various instruction signals transmitted to the remote monitoring support device 120. For example, the management server computer 130 generates report information based on notification information received from the remote monitoring support device 120 as a result of transmitting diagnostic instructions and notification information transmission instructions. In this case, the management server computer 130 generates report information including, for example, information regarding the mileage traveled and the number of starts of the elevator 101.

[0386] Furthermore, the management server computer 130 has a function to issue reports (not shown in the diagram) based on the generated report information. Reports can be issued, for example, each time the elevator 101 is made to perform a diagnostic operation, that is, each time response information is received in response to an instruction signal (diagnostic instruction) that instructs the remote monitoring support device 120 to perform a diagnostic operation.

[0387] Specifically, the management server computer 130 generates print information for printing the generated report information onto a recording medium such as paper, based on the generated report information, and outputs the generated print information to the operation terminal device 131 connected to the management server computer 130. When the operation terminal device 131 receives the print information, it can issue the report by driving and controlling the printer connected to the operation terminal device 131.

[0388] (Functional configuration of remote monitoring system 100) Next, the functional configuration of the remote monitoring system 100 according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention will be described. Figure 19 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the remote monitoring support device 120 that constitutes the remote monitoring system 100 according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention.

[0389] (Functional configuration of the remote monitoring support device 120) In Figure 19, each function of the remote monitoring support device 120 for the elevator 101 according to this embodiment of the invention is realized by the receiving unit 301, the storage unit 302, the generation unit 303, the output unit 304, the acquisition unit 305, the judgment unit 306, and the transmission unit 307. The functions of the receiving unit 301, the storage unit 302, the generation unit 303, the output unit 304, the acquisition unit 305, the judgment unit 306, and the transmission unit 307 of the remote monitoring support device 120 for the elevator 101 according to this embodiment of the invention can be realized by the respective parts of the remote monitoring support device 120.

[0390] The receiving unit 301 receives various instruction signals transmitted from the management server computer 130. For example, the receiving unit 301 receives notification information transmitted from the management server computer 130. The system receives a transmission instruction for a report. When the receiving unit 301 receives a diagnostic instruction, the storage unit 302 stores information regarding the date and time the diagnostic instruction was received. This allows the operation of the elevator 101 to be monitored periodically without communication with the management server computer 130.

[0391] When the receiving unit 301 receives a transmission instruction, the generation unit 303 generates an operation command signal that causes the elevator 101 to perform the above-mentioned diagnostic operation. The generation unit 303 generates an operation command signal that has been converted by the relay board 201 into a format that the control board 110 can analyze. When the receiving unit 301 receives a transmission instruction, the generation unit 303 generates an operation command signal that includes an instruction to output signals that cause each part of the elevator 101 to operate in a predetermined order.

[0392] Specifically, the generation unit 303 generates operation command signals that cause the control board 110 to drive and control, for example, the motor that raises and lowers the elevator car 102 of the elevator 101, the brake that stops the car 102 while it is being raised or lowered, and the motors that open and close the doors 105a and 102c of the landing 105 and the car 102.

[0393] When the receiving unit 301 receives a transmission instruction, the output unit 304 outputs an operation command signal to the control board 110 that causes the elevator 101 to perform the above-mentioned diagnostic operation. In this embodiment, the output unit 304 outputs the operation command signal generated by the generation unit 303 to the control board 110.

[0394] The output unit 304 outputs an operation command signal via a maintenance and inspection terminal 110a, to which a maintenance and diagnostic terminal used by workers during on-site inspection work is connected. The operation command signal output by the output unit 304 is converted by the relay board 201 into a format that the control board 110 can analyze, so that the control board 110 can perform a diagnostic operation, just as if a signal to perform a diagnostic operation were directly input from a maintenance and diagnostic terminal.

[0395] The output unit 304 may output an operation command signal via the maintenance terminal 110a to execute the next diagnostic operation, not only when the receiving unit 301 receives a transmission instruction, but also when a predetermined time has elapsed since outputting an operation command signal to the control board 110. Specifically, for example, based on the date and time information stored in the storage unit 302, the output unit 304 outputs an operation command signal via the maintenance terminal 110a to execute the next diagnostic operation when one month has elapsed since outputting an instruction to execute a diagnostic operation.

[0396] This allows the control board 110 to periodically output an operation command signal to perform a diagnostic operation without communicating with the management server computer 130. This reduces the burden on communication while allowing the elevator 101 to perform diagnostic operations periodically.

[0397] The acquisition unit 305 acquires signals output from the control board 110 to the outside of the control board 110. For example, the acquisition unit 305 acquires control signals output from the control board 110 to each part of the elevator 101 in response to an operation command signal output by the output unit 304 that causes a diagnostic operation to be performed.

[0398] Furthermore, the acquisition unit 305 acquires signals input to and output from the control panel 102a of the cage 102, for example. Specifically, the acquisition unit 305 acquires signals input from the control board 110 to the control panel 102a of the cage 102, and signals output from the control panel 102a of the cage 102 to the control board 110, for example, via the circuit board 1701 and wiring 200.

[0399] More specifically, the acquisition unit 305 acquires a signal output from the control panel 102a of the cage 102 to the control board 110 when a predetermined input operation is received at the control panel 102a of the cage 102. Alternatively, the acquisition unit 305 may acquire a control signal output from the control board 110 to the control panel 102a of the cage 102 in response to a signal output from the control panel 102a of the cage 102.

[0400] In this way, the acquisition unit 305 acquires bidirectional signals: a signal (downbound signal) output from the control board 110 to the control panel 102a of the elevator car 102, and a signal (upbound signal) output from the control panel 102a of the elevator car 102 to the control board 110. The position where the acquisition unit 305 acquires the upbound signal and the position where the acquisition unit 305 acquires the downbound signal may be the same or different.

[0401] Furthermore, the acquisition unit 305 may acquire an alarm signal output from the control board 110 to the control panel 102a of the elevator car 102, for example, when the operating mode of the elevator 101 switches from the normal operating mode to the earthquake operating mode due to the detection of an earthquake of a predetermined seismic intensity or higher. Also, the acquisition unit 305 may acquire an alarm signal output from the control board 110 to the control panel 102a of the elevator car 102 to notify the outside of a malfunction in the elevator 101, for example, when the floor signal indicating the position of the elevator car 102 does not switch despite the motor for raising and lowering the elevator car 102 of the elevator 101 having output a control signal. These alarm signals can be acquired, for example, via the maintenance and inspection terminal 110a.

[0402] The generation unit 303 generates notification information, including information about the status of the elevator 101, based on the signals acquired by the acquisition unit 305. For example, the generation unit 303 generates notification information indicating the floor where the elevator car 102 of the elevator 101 is currently located, based on a signal output from the control panel 102a of the car 102. The generation unit 303 may also generate notification information indicating that the elevator 101 is operating normally, based on a control signal output from the control board 110. Furthermore, the generation unit 303 may also generate notification information indicating that the current operating mode of the elevator 101 has switched or that a malfunction has occurred in the elevator 101, based on an alarm signal output from the control board 110.

[0403] The generation unit 303 generates notification information each time the acquisition unit 305 acquires a signal. Alternatively, the generation unit 303 may generate notification information when, for example, the acquisition unit 305 acquires a specific signal. Specifically, the generation unit 303 may generate notification information when, for example, the acquisition unit 305 acquires an alarm signal indicating that the current operating mode of the elevator 101 has switched.

[0404] The transmitting unit 307 transmits the notification information generated by the generation unit 303 to the management server computer 130. The transmitting unit 307 transmits the notification information to the management server computer 130 each time the generation unit 303 generates notification information. Alternatively, the transmitting unit 307 may transmit the notification information to the management server computer 130 when the generation unit 303 generates specific notification information. Specifically, for example, when the generation unit 303 generates notification information based on an alarm signal indicating that the current operating mode of the elevator 101 has switched, the transmitting unit 307 may transmit the notification information to the management server computer 130.

[0405] The remote monitoring support device 120 of Embodiment 5 according to this invention further determines whether the operating state of the elevator 101 is in a normal operating state based on the signal acquired by the acquisition unit 305. The determination unit 306 may determine, and if it determines that the elevator is not in a normal operating state, it may generate notification information including information about the status of the elevator 101 and send it to the management server computer 130. This allows the operator to quickly understand that the elevator 101 is not in a normal operating state and to take prompt action to maintain the elevator 101 in good condition, such as arranging for inspection personnel as needed. This improves the reliability of the elevator 101, ensures the safety of users, and allows users to use the elevator 101 with peace of mind.

[0406] (Processing procedure of the remote monitoring support device 120) Next, the processing procedure of the remote monitoring support device 120 of Embodiment 5 according to the present invention will be described. Figures 20 and 21 are flowcharts showing the processing procedure of the remote monitoring support device 120 of Embodiment 5 according to the present invention. In the flowchart of Figure 20, first, the system waits until it receives signals input to and from the control panel 102a of the elevator car 102. In step S2001, the system waits until it receives a call signal, for example, by receiving an input operation to an operation button by a user of the elevator 101. In step S2001, the system waits until it receives a signal input from the control board 110 to the control panel 102a of the elevator car 102, or until it receives a signal output from the control panel 102a of the elevator car 102 to the control board 110.

[0407] In step S2001, if signals input to and output from the control panel 102a of the cage 102 are acquired (step S2001: Yes), it is determined whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the last time a signal was output from the control panel 102a of the cage 102 was acquired (step S2002). In step S2002, for example, it is determined whether enough time has elapsed to determine that the cage 102 has been stopped for a predetermined time or longer because it has not received a call input operation. Specifically, for example, the time required to open and close the doors 105a and 102c can be set as the predetermined time.

[0408] In step S2002, if a predetermined time has not elapsed since the last time a signal was received from the control panel 102a of the cage 102 was obtained (step S2002: No), the process returns to step S2001 to determine whether or not a signal was received from the control panel 102a of the cage 102. On the other hand, if a predetermined time has elapsed since the last time a signal was received from the control panel 102a of the cage 102 was obtained (step S2002: Yes), notification information is generated based on the signals received from the control panel 102a of the cage 102 that were received before the predetermined time elapsed in step S2002: Yes (step S2003). This allows notification information to be generated, for example, if there has been no call input operation for a predetermined time or longer, and the cage 102 has been stopped for a predetermined time or longer.

[0409] Subsequently, the notification information generated in step S2003 is sent to the management server computer 130 (step S2004), and the series of processes is terminated. In step S2004, the notification information generated in step S2003 is sent from the communication I / F 204 to the management server computer 130 via the network 160, such as the Internet.

[0410] On the other hand, if the signal output from the control panel 102a of the cage 102 has not been acquired in step S2001 (step S2001: No), it is determined whether or not the alarm signal output via the maintenance terminal 110a has been acquired (step S2005). If the alarm signal output via the maintenance terminal 110a has not been acquired in step S2005 (step S2005: No), the process returns to step S2001. If the alarm signal output via the maintenance terminal 110a has been acquired in step S2005 (step S2005: Yes), the process proceeds to step S2003.

[0411] In the flowchart of Figure 21, first, it is determined whether or not a transmission instruction for notification information sent from the management server computer 130 has been received (step S2101). If, in step S2101, a transmission instruction for notification information sent from the management server computer 130 has been received (step S2101: Yes), an operation command signal is generated to cause the elevator 101 to perform a diagnostic operation based on the received transmission instruction (step S2102).

[0412] Then, the operation command signal generated in step S2102 is output to the control board 110 (step S2103), and the process moves to step S2104. In step S2103, for example, the operation command signal generated in step S2102 is output via a connection terminal provided on the control board 110 for connecting a maintenance diagnostic terminal.

[0413] Then, wait until a signal is obtained from the control panel 102a of the car 102, which has been operated according to the control signals output from the control board 110 in response to the operation command signal output in step S2103 (step S2104: No). In step S2104, it is also possible to wait until a control signal (a signal input / output to the control panel 102a of the car 102) is obtained from the control board 110 in response to the operation command signal output in step S2103.

[0414] In step S2104, if a signal output from the control panel 102a of the elevator car 102 (or a control signal output from the control board 110 in response to the operation command signal output in step S2103, i.e., a signal input / output to the control panel 102a of the elevator car 102) is obtained (step S2104: Yes), notification information is generated based on the obtained control signal (step S2105). In step S2105, for example, in response to the operation command signal output in step S2103, the control board 110 generates notification information indicating whether the control board 110 controlled each part of the elevator car 101 as instructed by the operation command signal, based on the control signals output from the control board 110 to each part of the elevator car 101.

[0415] Then, the notification information generated in step S2105 is sent to the management server computer 130 (step S2106), and the series of processes is completed. In step S2106, the notification information generated in step S2105 is sent from the communication I / F 204 to the management server computer 130 via the network 160, such as the Internet.

[0416] On the other hand, if in step S2101 the instruction to send notification information sent from the management server computer 130 has not been received (step S2101: No), it is determined whether a predetermined amount of time has elapsed since the last time the control board 110 was output with an operation command signal to perform a diagnostic operation on the elevator 101 (step S2107). In step S2107, if a predetermined amount of time has not elapsed since the last time the operation command signal to perform a diagnostic operation on the elevator 101 was output (step S2107: No), the process returns to step S2101 and it is determined whether or not the instruction to send notification information sent from the management server computer 130 has been received.

[0417] In step S2107, if a predetermined time has elapsed since the last time an operation command signal was output to perform a diagnostic operation on elevator 101 (step S2107: Yes), the process proceeds to step S2102, where an operation command signal is generated to perform a diagnostic operation on elevator 101. In this case, in step S2102, for example, based on information stored in advance in the remote monitoring support device 120, the elevator 101 is... It generates an operation command signal to initiate a diagnostic operation.

[0418] As described above, the remote monitoring support device 120 of this embodiment 5 is a remote monitoring support device 120 that communicates with the control board 110 and the management server computer 130, respectively, which control the operation of the elevator 101. The device acquires signals output from the control board 110 to the operation panel 102a (operation panel 102a of the elevator car 102) provided in the elevator car 102 of the elevator 101, and signals output from the operation panel 102a of the elevator car 102 to the control board 110 in accordance with the operation of the elevator 101 in response to said signals. Based on the acquired signals, it generates notification information regarding the status of the elevator 101 and transmits the generated notification information to the management server computer 130.

[0419] According to the remote monitoring support device 120 of this embodiment 5, by transmitting notification information based on signals output from the control board 110 to the control panel 102a of the elevator car 102, and signals output from the control panel 102a of the elevator car 102 to the control board 110 in accordance with the operation of the elevator car 101 in response to said control signals, to the management server computer 130, remote monitoring can be performed not only on elevators 101 equipped with a control board 110 that has a communication function with external devices installed in remote locations, but also on elevators 101 equipped with a control board 110 that does not have such a communication function. As a result, remote monitoring of the elevator 101 can be performed regardless of whether the elevator 101 itself has a communication function, thereby improving the reliability of the elevator 101, ensuring the safety of users, and allowing users to use the elevator 101 with peace of mind.

[0420] Furthermore, according to the remote monitoring support device 120 of this embodiment 5, the signals output from the control panel 102a of the elevator car 102 can be directly transmitted to the remote monitoring support device 120 without going through the control board 110. This improves the reliability of the notification information transmitted to the management server computer compared to cases where a control board or other relay devices are provided. This also further improves the reliability of the elevator 101, ensures greater safety for users, and allows users to use the elevator 101 with peace of mind.

[0421] Furthermore, by transmitting information directly from the control panel 102a (signal line 111) of the elevator car 102 to the remote monitoring support device 120 without going through the control board 110, the processing burden on the control board 110 can be reduced compared to the case where information regarding the status of the elevator 101 is acquired via the control board 110.

[0422] Furthermore, the remote monitoring support device 120 of this embodiment 5 is characterized in that, upon receiving a diagnostic instruction from the management server computer 130 that instructs the transmission of notification information, it outputs an instruction to the control board 110 to perform a diagnostic operation to diagnose the operating status of the elevator 101, and acquires the control signals output from the control board 110 to each part of the elevator 101 that are output to the control panel 102a of the car 102, and the signals output from the control panel 102a of the car 102 to the control board 110 in response to said control signals.

[0423] According to the remote monitoring support device 120 of this embodiment 5, when a diagnostic operation is performed on the control board 110 in response to instructions from the management server computer 130, the control board 110 transmits to the management server computer 130 notification information based on the control signals output to the control panel 102a of the car 102 from the control signals output to each part of the elevator 101, and the signals output from the control panel 102a of the car 102 to the control board 110 in response to said control signals, thereby enabling remote monitoring of the elevator 101.

[0424] This allows remote monitoring of the elevator 101 to be performed at any time set on the management server computer 130, thereby improving the reliability of the elevator 101, ensuring the safety of users, and allowing users to use the elevator 101 with peace of mind.

[0425] Furthermore, the remote monitoring support device 120 of this embodiment 5 can remotely monitor the elevator 101 by transmitting notification information based on control signals output from the control board 110 to each part of the elevator 101 when the control board 110 performs a diagnostic operation in response to instructions from the management server computer 130. This allows remote monitoring of the elevator 101 to be performed at any timing set on the management server computer 130, thereby improving the reliability of the elevator 101, ensuring the safety of users, and allowing users to use the elevator 101 with peace of mind.

[0426] Furthermore, the remote monitoring support device 120 of this embodiment 5 is characterized by outputting instructions to the control board 110 to perform a diagnostic operation via a maintenance terminal 110a to which a portable terminal device that outputs instructions to perform a diagnostic operation to the control board 110 can be connected.

[0427] According to the remote monitoring support device 120 of this embodiment 5, by outputting an instruction to execute a diagnostic operation via a maintenance and inspection terminal 110a to which a diagnostic terminal device conventionally used for diagnosing the elevator 101 is connected at the site where the elevator 101 is installed, the control board 110 can be easily made to execute a diagnostic operation without having to newly provide a mechanism for inputting an instruction to execute a diagnostic operation to the control board 110. This improves the reliability of the elevator 101, ensures the safety of users, and allows users to use the elevator 101 with peace of mind.

[0428] Furthermore, the remote monitoring support device 120 of this embodiment 5 is characterized in that it outputs the next instruction to execute a diagnostic operation after a predetermined time has elapsed since the output of the instruction to execute a diagnostic operation.

[0429] According to the remote monitoring support device 120 of this embodiment 5, the status of the elevator 101 can be grasped at predetermined intervals regardless of whether or not a diagnostic instruction is sent from the management server computer 130. This makes it possible to reduce the processing load on the management server computer 130 for remote monitoring of the elevator 101 while improving the reliability of the elevator 101. [Industrial applicability]

[0430] As described above, the remote monitoring support device according to this invention is useful for remote monitoring of elevators, and is particularly suitable for remote monitoring of elevators after installation. [Explanation of symbols]

[0431] 110 Control board (control device) 120 Remote monitoring support device 130 Management Server Computer 140 Telephone 301 Receiver 302 Storage section 303 Generation part 304 Output section 305 Acquisition Department 306 Judgment Department 307 Transmitter

Claims

[Claim 1] A method for monitoring the operating status of an elevator, The signal output according to the operating status of the elevator is acquired, Based on the acquired signal, it is determined whether the elevator is in a normal operating state or not. If it is determined that the aforementioned operating state is not a normal operating state, notification information is generated. The generated notification information is transmitted to a management server computer located in a remote location away from where the elevator is installed, and connected via a network. A method for monitoring elevators, characterized by the features described above.

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