Elevator Noise Source Localization via Acoustic Time Delay
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing elevator monitoring systems are unable to accurately locate the source of potential issues such as noise or vibrations, which hinders predictive maintenance and timely intervention.
Innovation Solution
A sensor module comprising first and second acoustic sensors, accelerometers, and a processor that identifies the direction of an elevator system noise source based on time delays and spatial differences between signals from these sensors, enabling precise localization of noise sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple acoustic sensors and accelerometers are deployed to locate noise sources, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The monitoring system is divided into multiple sensor modules, each containing acoustic sensors and accelerometers positioned at specific locations. Each module independently measures local noise and vibration characteristics, and the results are aggregated to determine the overall noise source location, reducing the complexity burden on any single module while maintaining high precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines acoustic sensors and accelerometers into integrated sensor modules that work together to measure both noise and vibration. This merging allows the system to use complementary data from different sensor types to improve location precision while managing complexity through modular design
2Reliability
If real-time monitoring of elevator system noise is implemented, then reliability is improved, but use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor modules operate in periodic cycles, continuously monitoring noise and vibration levels but processing and analyzing data at optimized intervals. The system adjusts its monitoring frequency based on detected conditions, maintaining reliable predictive maintenance capability while reducing overall energy consumption compared to continuous high-frequency processing
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution allows for accurate identification of noise sources, enhancing predictive maintenance and health status monitoring of elevator systems by providing precise location and direction of noise and vibration sources, thereby improving maintenance efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a first acoustic sensor arranged to provide a first acoustic signal, a second acoustic sensor arranged to provide a second acoustic signal
Implementation Method 2
a first accelerometer arranged to provide a first acceleration signal, a second accelerometer arranged to provide a second acceleration signal
Implementation Method 3
identify a direction of an elevator system noise source based on a first time delay based on the first acoustic signal and the second acoustic signal
Implementation Method 4
identify a direction of an elevator system noise source based on a spatial difference between the first acceleration signal and the second acceleration signal
Data Source
AI summary
An elevator system includes a car door and a sensor module. The car door is movable relative to an elevator car by a drive mechanism. The sensor module includes a first acoustic sensor arranged to provide a first acoustic signal, a second acoustic sensor arranged to provide a second acoustic signal, and a processor arranged to receive the first acoustic signal and the second acoustic signal. The processor is programmed to, responsive to an input provided to the first acoustic sensor and the second acoustic sensor, identify a direction of an elevator system noise source based on a first time delay based on the first acoustic signal and the second acoustic signal.