Elevator Position Determination Using Single Interpolation Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing elevator position determining systems are costly and require excessive installation space due to the use of multiple interpolation devices and sensors, which can lead to safety-critical errors if a sensor fails, as they need two separate interpolation parameters for accurate car position determination.
Innovation Solution
A position determining system that uses a single interpolation device with shared sensors for both detection devices, determining a single interpolated car position based on the same interpolation parameter, reducing the number of sensors and installation space while ensuring reliable car position determination through dual-channel discrete position determination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If two separate interpolation devices with separate sensors are used for redundant position determination, then reliability is improved, but device complexity and installation space increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the interpolation functions of both detection devices into a single shared interpolation device. This single interpolation device uses sensors that are common to both detection devices, eliminating the need for separate interpolation devices and sensors for each channel. The merging reduces system complexity and installation space while maintaining reliability through the redundant discrete position determination paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The single interpolation device is designed to serve both detection devices universally. It generates interpolation parameters that are applicable to both the first and second detection devices, allowing one device to perform multiple functions. This multi-functionality reduces the overall number of components needed in the system while maintaining the redundant determination capability.
2Reliability
If two separate interpolation devices with separate sensors are used for redundant position determination, then reliability is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the interpolation functions into a single shared device with common sensors, the patent reduces the total component count. This directly lowers manufacturing costs by eliminating redundant interpolation devices and sensors, while the redundant discrete position determination paths maintain the reliability needed for safe elevator operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal interpolation device that serves both detection devices reduces the bill of materials and manufacturing complexity. Instead of producing and installing two separate interpolation devices, only one needs to be manufactured and installed, significantly reducing costs while maintaining the safety-redundant architecture through discrete position determination.
3Device complexity
If a single interpolation device is used for both detection devices, then device complexity and cost are reduced, but measurement precision may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the single interpolation device to generate interpolation parameters that are applied to both detection devices. While the interpolation is performed once, the resulting parameters are utilized in both redundant determination paths. This partial action approach maintains precision because the same interpolation parameters are used consistently across both channels, and any interpolation error affects both channels equally, allowing for error detection through comparison.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach allows for a cost-effective and space-efficient elevator position determining system with reduced risk of safety-critical errors, as errors in interpolation result in position deviations smaller than the discrete position resolution, which is typically not safety-critical, and can be detected after a certain distance traveled.
Implementation Method 1
the first detection device includes a series of Hall sensors, which scan the code mark pattern in a contact-free manner and in this way detect the position mark
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for determining an elevator car position uses position markers situated in the elevator shaft and each assigned a discrete car position, first and second detection devices on the elevator car detecting first and second position markers respectively, and an evaluation unit that determines first and second discrete car positions based on the detected first and second position markers respectively. A single interpolation device of the position determining system determines first and second interpolated car positions. The evaluation unit determines first and second car positions based on the first and second discrete car positions and the first and second interpolated car positions respectively. The interpolation device generates an interpolation parameter that characterizes a position of the first detection device relative to the first position marker and determines the first and second interpolated car positions on the basis of the interpolation parameter.