Elevator Software Update Safety via Presence Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conveyance systems such as elevators require on-site technicians for software updates, which is inefficient, and existing solutions like remote program updating methods for elevators do not ensure safety by confirming the absence of individuals before updating software.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize a sensing system, including detection devices like cameras, depth sensors, and floor pressure sensors, to detect the presence of individuals within the conveyance apparatus before initiating software updates, ensuring safety by ceasing operations until the area is clear.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If remote software updating is implemented, then the need for on-site technicians is eliminated and productivity is improved, but safety cannot be ensured without confirming the absence of individuals
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of individuals in the elevator car before initiating the software update process. The detection device captures images or sensor data, and the processor analyzes this data to confirm no individuals are present before allowing the update to proceed, thus ensuring safety before the actual update operation.
Solution Approach 2:
A cognitive service system acts as an intermediary between the remote technician and the elevator system. This intermediary includes a detection device that monitors the environment and a processor that makes safety decisions, enabling remote updates while maintaining safety through automated environmental assessment.
2Reliability
If traditional on-site technician method is used, then safety is ensured through direct observation, but productivity is reduced due to the need for physical presence
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of physical presence with an automated detection system. Instead of requiring a technician to physically observe the elevator car, a detection device with image processing capabilities performs the safety verification automatically, eliminating the need for on-site human observation while maintaining safety standards.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-verification of safety conditions through automated detection and processing. The detection device and processor work autonomously to assess whether the environment is safe for updates, without requiring external human intervention for the verification process, thus improving efficiency while maintaining reliability.
3Extent of automation
If automated detection system is added, then remote operation becomes safe, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detection device is designed to serve multiple functions: it can detect individuals, capture environmental data, and potentially serve other monitoring purposes. The cognitive service system can be applied to various conveyance systems beyond elevators, making the complexity investment worthwhile through multi-functional utility and broad applicability.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method (600) of updating software on a conveyance system comprising a conveyance apparatus including: receiving (604) a software update request to update software on the conveyance system; determining (606) whether there are individuals located in or on the conveyance apparatus using at least one of data detected by a first detection device or sound data detected by a microphone; and updating (608) the software on the conveyance system, when it is determined that there are no individuals located in or on the conveyance apparatus.