Elevator Modernization via Pushbutton Interface Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Prior modernization solutions for elevator systems are complex and laborious, especially in large groups, due to the need for numerous interfaces and manufacturer-specific adaptations, which can compromise safety and increase costs.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that minimize the number of interfaces required during modernization by using a new group control connected to old call-giving appliances via a pushbutton interface, allowing calls to be divided between modernized and unmodernized elevators based on selection criteria, and enabling the integration of multiple elevator groups into a single system using simple binary signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If numerous interfaces and manufacturer-specific adaptations are used during modernization, then the elevator system can be modernized, but the complexity increases and operating safety deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a standardized interface structure that can handle multiple elevator groups and manufacturers through a single unified architecture. The new group control uses a common interface design that works across different elevator models, eliminating the need for manufacturer-specific adaptations and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining modernization capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the elevator system into modernized and unmodernized groups, with the new group control managing modernized elevators through standardized interfaces while unmodernized elevators continue operating with their original controls. This segmentation allows gradual modernization without requiring interfaces for all elevators simultaneously, reducing the immediate complexity burden.
2Adaptability or versatility
If numerous interfaces are implemented during modernization, then calls can be allocated to both modernized and unmodernized elevators, but the number of interfaces increases making implementation laborious
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal interface design in the new group control that can allocate calls to both modernized and unmodernized elevators through a single standardized mechanism. This universal interface handles diverse elevator types without requiring separate interface implementations for each elevator group, significantly reducing implementation labor while maintaining comprehensive call allocation capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If manufacturer-specific adaptations are made, then the elevator system can accommodate different manufacturers, but costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by creating a standardized interface architecture in the new group control that is designed to work with elevators from different manufacturers without requiring manufacturer-specific adaptations. This universal design eliminates the need for custom interface development for each manufacturer, significantly reducing modernization costs while maintaining compatibility across the elevator fleet.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention discloses a method and a system for modernizing at least one elevator group (1000), which comprises a plurality of elevators (A, B, C, D), a group control (1100) that controls the elevator group as well as call-giving appliances connected to the group control via the landing appliance bus (1112). According to the solution a new group control, new call-giving appliances (1301 ) for the floor levels and also a new landing call bus (1302) are installed in the elevator group; a new group control (1300) is connected to the pushbutton interface (M1,...,M10) of the old call-giving appliances for transmitting calls given by passengers from the new group control (1300) to the old group control (1 100). The elevator calls given by passengers are divided between the modernized subgroup (1300,A,B) and at least one unmodernized subgroup (1 100, C, D) on the basis of the given selection criterion, and a call addressed to the modernized subgroup is allocated in the new group control to the modernized elevators or a call addressed to the unmodernized subgroup is transmitted via the pushbutton interface (M1,...,M10) to the unmodernized subgroup.