Elevator Diagnostics via Modernization Overlay Signals
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Solution Overview
Problem
During the modernization of elevator installations, the limited data transfer capabilities of standard overlays can hinder the detection of operational anomalies in unmodernized elevators, leading to potential service disruptions.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a diagnostics function that uses control signals sent from the group controller or input devices to the modernization overlay to diagnose operational anomalies in unmodernized elevators based on response criteria, such as response time, without the need for additional cabling or diagnostics devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If standard overlay interface is used to connect unmodernized elevators to group control system, then compatibility and ease of integration are improved, but data transfer capability and fault detection ability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary diagnostics function that sits between the standard overlay interface and the group control system. This intermediary layer monitors and analyzes the control signals passing through the overlay, extracting diagnostic information without requiring changes to the standard interface protocol or hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the diagnostics function continuously monitors the control signals and provides feedback about the operational status of unmodernized elevators. This feedback loop enables the group control system to detect faults and anomalies in real-time despite using the limited standard overlay interface.
2Measurement precision
If tailored cabling and diagnostics devices are installed directly between unmodernized elevators and group control system, then fault detection capability is improved, but device complexity and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The diagnostics function is designed to be universal and multi-functional, working through the existing standard overlay interface to perform multiple diagnostic tasks. This eliminates the need for separate tailored cabling and dedicated diagnostics devices, as the single diagnostics function handles all monitoring and fault detection requirements through the standard interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service diagnostics where the group control system and overlay infrastructure themselves provide the diagnostic capability. Rather than requiring external specialized devices, the existing system components are leveraged to monitor and detect faults in unmodernized elevators, reducing overall system complexity.
3Reliability
If response time criteria is enforced for elevator control signals, then service reliability is improved, but operational constraints and system rigidity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The diagnostics function applies response time criteria selectively and partially. Rather than enforcing strict time limits on all control signals, it monitors response times to identify patterns and anomalies. This partial application of time criteria maintains service reliability for critical operations while preserving operational flexibility for non-critical functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts its monitoring and response based on operational conditions. The diagnostics function can adapt its response time thresholds and monitoring intensity based on the current state of the elevator system, allowing it to maintain high reliability during critical operations while providing operational flexibility during normal conditions.
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The present invention concerns an elevator installation (1) and a method for diagnosing an elevator installation (1). Elevator installation (1) comprises an elevator group controller (2), at least one input device (10) for issuing an elevator service request, a modernization overlay (4A, 4B, 4C) communicatively connected to the group controller (2) and/or to the at least one input device (10) and at least one elevator (5A, 5B, 5C) communicatively connected to the overlay (4A, 4B, 4C). The overlay (4A, 4B, 4C) is configured for transferring elevator control signals between the at least one elevator (5A, 5B, 5C) and at least one of the group controller (2) and the at least one input device (10). The elevator installation comprises a diagnostics function (6) configured to determine an operational anomaly of the at least one elevator (5A, 5B, 5C) based on at least one control signal (7A) to be sent from the group controller (2) and/or from the at least one input device (10) to the overlay (4A, 4B, 4C) of the at least one elevator (5A, 5B, 5C) and at least one response criteria associated with the response (7B) for the at least one control signal.