Elevator Control Panel Touchscreen Key Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional elevator systems face limitations in cost-effectiveness and space utilization in their control panels due to the need for multiple mechanical key switches, which restrict the number of functions that can be accessed and displayed, especially when trying to accommodate various keys and functions in a limited space.
Innovation Solution
A control system for elevator systems that incorporates a key detection module recognizing mechanical keys optically, allowing a single module to handle multiple keys, combined with a touchscreen interface that displays buttons based on assigned authorizations, enabling efficient use of space and reducing costs by grouping keys and using mechanical buttons for frequently activated functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple mechanical key switches are used to accommodate various keys and functions, then the number of accessible functions increases, but the space required and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The control panel integrates multiple functions into a single unified interface. The touchscreen display serves as both an informational display and an input device, replacing multiple dedicated mechanical switches. The system provides universal access to various elevator functions (door control, lighting, ventilation, emergency calls) through a common touchscreen interface, eliminating the need for separate mechanical key switches for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical key switches with a touchscreen-based electronic system. Instead of physical mechanical components that require space and can fail, the system uses capacitive or resistive touchscreen technology with graphical user interface elements. This substitution dramatically reduces the physical space required while maintaining or enhancing functional capabilities.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple mechanical key switches are installed to provide various control functions, then functional versatility improves, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate control functions into a single integrated touchscreen interface. Instead of having separate mechanical key switches for door control, lighting, ventilation, and emergency functions, all these controls are combined into one unified touchscreen system. This consolidation reduces the number of mechanical components while providing the same or greater functional variety.
Solution Approach 2:
The touchscreen control panel serves as a universal interface for all elevator control functions. A single device provides access to door operation, lighting control, ventilation adjustment, emergency communication, and informational display, replacing what would traditionally require multiple specialized mechanical switches and control mechanisms.
3Ease of operation
If mechanical buttons are used for all control functions, then ease of operation is maintained, but the number of displayable functions is limited by available space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional array of physical buttons to a multi-dimensional touchscreen interface. The touchscreen can display numerous virtual buttons, icons, and graphical elements that can be arranged in flexible layouts without consuming additional physical space. Users can access additional functions through scrolling, menus, or hierarchical displays, effectively adding dimensional capacity to the control interface.
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 a cost-effective and space-efficient control panel that can unlock various elevator functions with a single key detection module, enabling a wide range of keys to be recognized and displayed, enhancing user interaction and reducing the need for multiple mechanical key switches, thus improving the overall functionality and usability of the elevator system.
Implementation Method 1
a key detection module for installation in the elevator cabin which serves to recognize a mechanical key based on its shape
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~5
Figure 6
AI summary
Shown is a control unit (1) for an elevator system (3). The control unit (1) comprises a cabin control panel (7) for installation in an elevator cabin (5) of the elevator system (3) and a key detection module (9) for installation in the elevator cabin (5). The cabin control panel (7) has buttons (15) for controlling the elevator system (3). The key detection module (9) serves to recognize a mechanical key based on its shape. According to the invention, the control unit (1) further comprises an authorization management system (11) by means of which an authorization to execute at least one control function of the elevator system (3) can be assigned to a key, and the cabin control panel (7) has a touchscreen (13) for displaying at least one button (15), wherein this button (15) is displayed based on the authorization to execute a control function assigned to the key by the authorization management system (11).