Dynamic Elevator Idle-Mode Timing for Energy and Wear Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Elevators consume high energy during idle periods and fixed time delay strategies for entering energy saving modes are inefficient, leading to potential mechanical wear and high energy consumption.

Innovation Solution

A controller dynamically determines the time period for switching from an idle mode to an energy saving mode based on various operating parameters, including elevator events, traffic distribution, and component lifetimes, adjusting the idle duration to optimize energy use and component longevity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a fixed time delay is used to switch from idle mode to energy saving mode, then the control logic is simple, but energy consumption remains high during the fixed delay period and cannot be optimized

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontrol logic complexityVSAvoidenergy consumption during idle period

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from a fixed time delay to a dynamically adjustable time delay that adapts based on elevator operational patterns. The controller monitors elevator events and adjusts the time delay parameter in real-time, allowing the system to optimize energy consumption while responding to actual usage patterns rather than relying on a static predetermined value.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Use of energy by moving object

If the time delay for entering energy saving mode is extended, then energy consumption is reduced, but the risk of mechanical wear increases due to more frequent switching operations

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveenergy consumption during idle periodVSAvoidcomponent lifetime

Core Design Contradiction:

Use of energy by moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring elevator operational events and using this information to adjust the time delay parameter. The controller counts elevator events within specific time windows and dynamically modifies the delay before entering energy saving mode, creating a closed-loop system that balances energy conservation with mechanical wear prevention based on actual usage patterns.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

3Use of energy by moving object

If the elevator frequently switches between idle mode and energy saving mode, then energy consumption is optimized, but mechanical wear of components increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveenergy consumption optimizationVSAvoidmechanical wear

Core Design Contradiction:

Use of energy by moving objectVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the time delay parameter based on elevator event frequency. When elevator usage is high, the delay is extended to prevent frequent switching; when usage is low, the delay is reduced to maximize energy savings. This adaptive parameter modification optimizes the balance between energy consumption and mechanical wear under varying operational conditions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS20250256941A1Controlling an energy saving mode of an elevator

Publication Date: 2025.08.14 KONE OYJ

AI summary

A controller for controlling an energy saving mode of an elevator includes at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the controller to at least perform: obtaining information associated with operating the elevator; determining dynamically a time period for maintaining an idle mode of the elevator based at least in part on the information; and issuing a request to switch from the idle mode to the energy saving mode after the time period expires.