Elevator Service Assignment via Dynamic Priority Reassignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is limited certainty in elevator service assignment due to available space/capacity, leading to inefficient re-calling processes for users when elevators become fully occupied.
Innovation Solution
A system and method where a controller assigns elevators based on priority numbers, dynamically reassigns service from one elevator to another if initial capacity is insufficient, and communicates changes to user devices for real-time updates, ensuring efficient allocation and minimizing re-calling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an elevator is assigned to a user following an elevator call, then the user receives elevator service assignment, but there is limited certainty on whether the elevator can serve the user due to available space/capacity
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors elevator capacity and provides feedback to the controller. When capacity changes are detected, the controller receives notifications and can dynamically reassign elevator services. This feedback mechanism ensures reliable service assignment by maintaining real-time awareness of elevator capacity status.
Solution Approach 2:
The elevator assignment system is made dynamic through continuous capacity monitoring and real-time reassignment capabilities. Instead of static assignment, the system adapts to changing capacity conditions, allowing users to be reassigned to different elevators based on current availability, thereby improving service certainty.
2Loss of time
If the user waits until the elevator arrives to learn it is fully occupied, then the user can check capacity, but the user must re-call for an elevator which is tedious and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary capacity verification before finalizing elevator assignment. By monitoring capacity in advance and notifying users before arrival, the system prevents situations where users must re-call elevators. The controller proactively manages assignments based on predicted capacity availability, eliminating the need for tedious re-calling.
Solution Approach 2:
Real-time capacity feedback is provided to users through their devices, showing current elevator availability before arrival. This feedback allows users to make informed decisions and prevents wasted waiting time, as the system notifies users if an elevator becomes unavailable and can initiate reassignment automatically.
3Productivity
If the controller assigns an elevator based on initial capacity, then the assignment is made quickly, but capacity may change before the user reaches the elevator
Solution Approach 1:
The capacity monitoring operation continues continuously from the moment of assignment through elevator arrival. Rather than a single-point check, the system maintains continuous surveillance of elevator capacity, ensuring the assignment remains valid throughout the user's journey to the elevator.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements continuous feedback on capacity status during the user's wait time. If capacity changes occur after initial assignment, the controller receives immediate notification and can take corrective action, maintaining assignment validity despite the passage of time between assignment and elevator arrival.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is an elevator system having a plurality of elevators including a first elevator and a second elevator, and a controller that controls the plurality of elevators and communicates over a network with a first device seeking elevator service at a lobby, wherein the controller: receives a first request from the first device to receive elevator service, provides the first device a first priority number, based on the first priority number and remaining elevator capacity in the plurality of elevators, effects a first assignment wherein the first elevator is assigned to service the first request.