Automatic Elevator Network Device Commissioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
The configuration of network elements in modern elevator and escalator systems is complex and often requires pre-configuration by skilled personnel, which is challenging due to the intricate network topology and limited access in spaces like elevator shafts, necessitating a more efficient method for connecting and disconnecting peripheral devices within the transportation infrastructure control network (TICN).
Innovation Solution
An automatic commissioning method where network elements, such as switches and routers, receive a unique communication address from a higher network element and request configuration settings from an automatic commissioning service, allowing for installation or replacement without pre-configuration, enabling efficient determination of network topology and configuration settings post-installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If pre-configuration by skilled personnel is used, then network elements can be properly configured, but the process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The network element performs self-configuration by automatically detecting its own parameters (MAC address, IP address) and exchanging configuration data with the commissioning server without requiring manual intervention or pre-configuration by skilled personnel
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-establishing the commissioning server infrastructure and pre-configuring the network element's self-configuration capabilities, so that when the network element is installed, it can automatically complete its configuration without on-site expert intervention
2Reliability
If manual configuration by maintenance experts is required, then configuration accuracy can be ensured, but access restrictions in elevator shafts make installation difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The network element autonomously performs configuration tasks including self-detection of physical and network parameters, automatic exchange of configuration data with the commissioning server, and self-configuration without requiring maintenance experts to be physically present in the elevator shaft
Solution Approach 2:
The commissioning server acts as an intermediary that communicates with the network element remotely, enabling configuration to be performed through the network rather than requiring direct physical access by maintenance personnel
3Ease of manufacture
If network elements are installed without pre-configuration, then installation simplicity is improved, but configuration errors may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The network element automatically detects its own configuration parameters (MAC address, IP address) and exchanges accurate configuration data with the commissioning server, eliminating manual configuration errors while maintaining installation simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the network element sends detected parameters to the commissioning server, which validates and returns corrected or confirmed configuration data, ensuring accuracy while maintaining automatic installation
Data Source
AI summary
A commissioning arrangement for elevator and escalator network devices is disclosed. When the elevator network devices are connected to the elevator network they first get a unique communication address from another network element that is typically a network switch located higher in the chain of network switches. Then, using the established communication address, the network element contacts an automatic commissioning service for acquiring network configuration settings.