Elevator Entrapment Detection Through Reference Image Processing

The patent replaces weight measuring devices with an imaging-based detection system. The imaging device captures visual information about objects inside the elevator car, and the computing unit analyzes this visual data to identify human objects. This substitution allows the system to distinguish between passengers and non-human objects based on visual characteristics rather than just weight, thereby improving identification accuracy while maintaining detection capability.

The patent introduces an intermediary processing layer between the imaging device and the detection decision. The computing unit performs image processing operations (such as frame subtraction, thresholding, and pattern recognition) to analyze the visual data. This intermediary processing enables the system to accurately distinguish between human and non-human objects by analyzing visual features, thereby resolving the contradiction between detection capability and identification accuracy.

The patent implements a self-service detection system where the imaging device and computing unit automatically detect entrapment situations without requiring manual intervention. When the system detects human objects inside the elevator car during an inoperable condition, it automatically generates and transmits alerts to service providers. This automation eliminates the need for passengers to manually report the situation, significantly reducing response time while maintaining acceptable system complexity.

The patent establishes a feedback loop where the detection system continuously monitors the elevator car interior and automatically responds to detected entrapment situations. The system receives input from the imaging device, processes the information, and sends feedback signals to service providers when entrapment is detected. This automated feedback mechanism eliminates manual reporting delays and improves safety response time.

The patent implements periodic image processing instead of continuous processing. The imaging device captures images at specific intervals or when triggered by events such as elevator door opening/closing or inoperable condition detection. The computing unit processes these periodic images to detect human objects, maintaining detection accuracy while significantly reducing energy consumption compared to continuous processing.

The patent performs preliminary actions by capturing images at key moments such as when the elevator enters an inoperable condition or when doors open/close. Rather than continuously processing images, the system prepares and processes images at these critical predetermined moments, maintaining detection accuracy for entrapment situations while reducing overall energy consumption.