Elevator Parameterization via Function-Based Menus
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Elevator system parameterization is complex and time-consuming, requiring fitters to navigate multiple menus and submenus, leading to potential performance and functional losses due to orientation issues and frequent hotline contacts.
Innovation Solution
A method that guides users through a menu structure from function to component, allowing selection of parameterization tasks with dedicated function menus for input and output, eliminating the need to know the menu structure, and providing immediate feedback on settings and system status.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the traditional component-based menu structure is used for parameterization, then comprehensive control over all technical components is achieved, but the complexity of operation increases and fitters lose orientation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional parameterization approach by switching from component-based menus to function-based menus. Instead of organizing menus hierarchically by technical components (drive, doors, control), the system presents menus organized by operational functions (approach, door operation, energy optimization). This inversion resolves the contradiction by making the system easier to operate through familiar functional workflows while the complex component structure remains managed internally by the controller.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a function menu system as an intermediary layer between the fitter and the underlying component structure. This intermediary translates functional requirements into component-specific settings automatically, shielding the user from menu complexity while maintaining comprehensive control. The function menu acts as a mediator that handles the complexity internally while presenting a simplified interface.
2Productivity
If multiple menus and submenus are required for cross-component tasks, then precise control over individual components is maintained, but the time required for parameterization increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple component-specific settings into unified function menus. For example, the approach function combines drive speed settings, positioning parameters, and door timing into a single menu. This merging eliminates the need to navigate through multiple separate menus and submenus, dramatically reducing parameterization time while maintaining precise control over each component through the integrated function settings.
Solution Approach 2:
The function menus are designed to be universal, handling multiple components and parameters within a single menu structure. A single function menu can simultaneously control drive behavior, door operation, and energy management settings, making the parameterization process more productive by addressing multiple requirements in one unified interface rather than requiring separate menus for each component.
3Reliability
If detailed knowledge of menu structure is required, then precise parameterization can be achieved, but the difficulty of operation increases and errors occur
Solution Approach 1:
The function menu system provides self-service by automatically guiding the fitter through the parameterization process based on selected functions. The system presents only the relevant parameters and settings for each function, with default values and contextual help built in. This self-guided approach ensures accurate parameterization without requiring the fitter to memorize or navigate complex menu structures, thereby maintaining reliability while improving ease of operation.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The present invention relates to a method for parameterizing an elevator system 1, and to an elevator system 1 suitable for carrying out the method according to the invention. Information is displayed and entered via a user interface 24, which is connected to a controller 21 of the elevator system, in order to set a desired function of the elevator system 1. A technician selects the desired parameterization task on the user interface 24 and can then make all the necessary settings for this task in a single corresponding function menu. Since this function menu also displays information about the current status of the elevator system, the technician also has immediate feedback on how his settings affect the system. For example, he can immediately see which terminals of the controller are occupied or what voltage is present without having to change the menu.This significantly simplifies the previously highly complicated parameterization process for the technician, allowing for faster and easier achievement of optimal elevator function.