Elevator Wayfinding Interface With Multimodal Passenger Assistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Elevator, escalator, and moving walkway systems pose challenges for passengers with special needs, such as blindness or mobility issues, due to difficulty in locating and using these facilities, and existing systems do not adequately assist such passengers in navigation and operation.
Innovation Solution
A multi-modal navigation system integrated with an electromechanical system, including a passenger interface that provides graphical markers and sensory feedback, allowing passengers to control elevator operations and navigate through buildings using a wayfinding application on a portable device, with optional robotic assistance for guidance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional elevator systems are used without additional assistance systems, then the system structure remains simple, but passengers with disabilities cannot locate or use elevators effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a mobile device application as an intermediary between passengers with disabilities and the elevator system. The application provides audio cues, visual indicators, and haptic feedback that mediate the interaction, allowing blind or visually impaired passengers to locate and operate elevators without modifying the physical elevator infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces physical mechanical indicators (lights, signs, buttons) with digital and sensory substitutes delivered through mobile devices. Audio signals, screen displays, and haptic vibrations substitute for visual and tactile mechanical cues, enabling accessibility without adding physical complexity to the elevator system.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple indicators and controls are added to assist passengers with disabilities, then accessibility improves, but the interface becomes more complex and difficult to use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic interface that adapts to individual passenger needs. The application detects user preferences and automatically adjusts the type of feedback provided (audio, visual, or haptic), allowing the interface to remain simple for each user while maintaining versatility across different disability types. The system dynamically selects the most appropriate communication mode for each passenger.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent provides different types of information and feedback at different stages of the elevator interaction process. Audio cues provide directional guidance when approaching the elevator, visual indicators show elevator status and selection confirmation, and haptic feedback confirms button presses. Each modality is applied locally at the appropriate moment and place in the interaction sequence.
3Measurement precision
If real-time elevator status information is provided to all passengers, then navigation accuracy improves, but information processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary filtering and processing of elevator status information on the server side before transmitting to mobile devices. The system pre-processes data about elevator locations, statuses, and arrival times, delivering only relevant information to each passenger based on their current position and selected destination. This preliminary action reduces the volume of data that needs to be transmitted and processed in real-time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent provides partial information updates rather than continuous full-status broadcasts. The system sends elevator status information only when relevant events occur (elevator arrival, door opening, selection confirmation) rather than continuously transmitting all possible status data. This partial action approach maintains navigation accuracy while minimizing energy consumption.
Data Source
AI summary
A system is provided and includes an electromechanical system, a controller configured to control operations of the electromechanical system in accordance with commands and a multi-modal navigation system. The multi-modal navigation system is communicative with the controller to be receptive of information relating to the operations of the electromechanical system and is configured to control at least a subset of the operations of the electromechanical system in accordance with the information and at least a subset of the commands.