Elevator Safety Bus Configuration for Sensor Node Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern elevator systems face inefficiencies due to the use of multiple different internal data transmission solutions, leading to complicated wiring and labor-intensive configuration of elevator components, particularly in scenarios where safety sensors need to be identified and configured reliably.
Innovation Solution
A method and system utilizing a common ethernet bus for connecting elevator system components, enabling easy and automated configuration through a data bus that links identifiers with addresses, allowing sensors to communicate status changes to a safety controller via the bus.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different internal data transmission solutions are used in elevator systems, then various communication needs can be met, but the system becomes complicated and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple different data transmission solutions (serial communication, fieldbus, Ethernet) into a single unified Ethernet-based communication system. All elevator components (control panels, doors, motors, safety devices) communicate through a common Ethernet network, eliminating the need for separate communication infrastructures and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining versatility through protocol support.
Solution Approach 2:
The Ethernet communication system serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides data transmission, configuration, diagnostics, and control for various elevator components. The system can handle different communication protocols (Modbus, BACnet, HTTP) over the same physical infrastructure, making it a universal communication platform that replaces multiple specialized systems.
2Ease of operation
If traditional wiring with dedicated connectors is used for each elevator component, then the interface is unique and self-explanatory, but the wiring becomes complicated requiring lots of cabling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple dedicated wiring connections into a single Ethernet cable for each component. Instead of having separate wires for power, data, and control signals, all communications are consolidated through the Ethernet network, dramatically reducing cabling complexity while maintaining clear identification through IP addressing and device names.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical wiring system with a digital communication system. Instead of physical dedicated connections for each signal type, the system uses Ethernet networking with software-based protocol handling, where device identification and communication rules are managed through digital addresses and protocols rather than physical wire arrangements.
3Device complexity
If serial communication is used to connect landing fixtures to a common communication channel, then the interface becomes simpler with less wiring, but the configuration becomes labor-intensive requiring manual setup
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service configuration where elevator components automatically obtain their network identities and communication parameters. Devices perform self-identification through automated protocols, obtaining IP addresses via DHCP or using pre-configured addresses, and automatically register themselves on the network without requiring manual configuration by installers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring devices with unique identifiers and communication parameters before installation. Devices come with factory-set Ethernet addresses, device names, and protocol configurations, allowing them to be immediately integrated into the network upon installation without requiring on-site manual configuration.
4Reliability
If manual configuration of fixtures is required for serial communication, then data identification can be achieved, but the process becomes labor-intensive and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic device identification and data association through self-service mechanisms. When a device connects to the Ethernet network, it automatically announces its presence and capabilities, and the control system automatically associates the device with its corresponding physical location and function based on pre-configured mappings or automated detection protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where devices automatically report their status, location, and operational data to the control system through the Ethernet network. The system continuously monitors and verifies device identities and configurations, providing real-time feedback to ensure accurate data association and enabling automatic correction of any identification errors.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2
AI summary
According to an aspect, there is provided a method for setting up an elevator safety system, the elevator safety system comprising an elevator system component, an actuator for causing a change in the status of the elevator system component, a data bus (114, 124), a safety controller (104) configured to communicate via the data bus (114, 124), a sensor configured to indicate a change in the status of the elevator system component, and an elevator system node (108A-108C, 110A-110F, 120A-120I) associated with the sensor configured to communicate via the data bus (114, 124), wherein the elevator system node (108A-108C, 110A-110F, 120A-120I) is configured to communicate a change in the status of the elevator system component to the safety controller (104) via the data bus (114, 124). The method comprises causing, by the actuator, a change in the status of the elevator system component; detecting, with the sensor, a change in the status of the elevator system component; communicating with the elevator system node (108A-108C, 110A-110F, 120A-120I) the changed status to the safety controller (104) via the data bus (114, 124); and linking, in a memory of the safety controller (104), an address associated with the elevator system node (108A-108C, 110A-110F, 120A-120I) with an identifier of the elevator system component.