Modular Elevator Control Architecture for Plug-In Safety Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Elevator systems require frequent software updates and hardware modifications when additional safety modules are added, necessitating a more efficient method for integrating sub-modules without architectural changes.
Innovation Solution
A modular elevator system with a main module and sub-modules that utilize a configuration mode, detection mode, and elevator operation mode, allowing sub-modules to be added and recognized without software updates or hardware modifications through a plug-and-play communication protocol.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If additional sub-modules are added to the safety system to provide additional functions, then the system functionality is improved, but frequent software updates and hardware modifications are required
Solution Approach 1:
The safety system is divided into a main module and multiple independent sub-modules, each with specific safety functions. This segmentation allows individual sub-modules to be added, removed, or modified without affecting the entire system architecture, thereby reducing the need for comprehensive software updates and hardware modifications when expanding system functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The main module is designed with universal communication capabilities and standardized interfaces that can accommodate various types of sub-modules. This multi-functionality allows the system to integrate different safety sub-modules (e.g., safety inputs, safety outputs, monitoring devices) without requiring architecture-level redesign, thus improving adaptability while minimizing complexity increases.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the architecture is designed to accommodate additional modules, then future expansion is enabled, but frequent software updates and hardware modifications are necessary
Solution Approach 1:
The system architecture is pre-configured with standardized communication protocols and interfaces during the initial design phase. This preliminary action establishes a flexible framework that can accommodate various sub-modules without requiring subsequent architecture-level changes, thereby enabling future expansion while minimizing the time and effort needed for modifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic module recognition and configuration capabilities, allowing sub-modules to be automatically detected and integrated into the system. This dynamic approach enables the system to adapt to changes in real-time without requiring manual software updates or hardware modifications, thus facilitating future expansion while reducing the time investment required.
3Reliability
If sub-modules are added to provide additional safety functions, then system safety capabilities are improved, but hardware modifications are required
Solution Approach 1:
Sub-modules are designed with self-configuration capabilities, automatically communicating their characteristics and requirements to the main module upon connection. This self-service approach eliminates the need for manual hardware modification or complex installation procedures, making it easier to add safety capabilities while maintaining system reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes configurable parameters and standardized communication protocols that allow sub-modules to be integrated through software configuration rather than physical hardware modifications. By changing system parameters and communication settings rather than physically altering hardware, the system can enhance safety capabilities while improving ease of manufacture and deployment.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and elevator system includes a main module that is operable in a configuration mode, a detection mode, and an elevator operation mode. At least one sub-module is connectable to the main module when in the configuration mode, and the sub-module has an initialization mode and a recognized mode. At least one activation tool is selectively actuated by a user to activate the detection mode. In response to activation of the detection mode, the main module returns to the configuration mode and initiates communication with the sub-module while in the initialization mode. In response to communication from the main module, the sub-module communicates a plurality of sub-module characteristics to the main module. In response to review and certification of the plurality of sub-module characteristics, the main module accepts the sub-module as an approved sub-module and the sub-module enters the recognized mode.