Elevator Group Controller Wear-Based Call Allocation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In elevator groups, the existing allocation algorithms lead to uneven wear and tear among elevators, causing some to fail prematurely and increasing maintenance needs, as they consistently select the elevator with the smallest order number, resulting in disproportionate usage.
Innovation Solution
A method where the elevator group control unit compares actual usage against target usage to select elevators for calls, balancing wear and tear by configuring the allocation algorithm to favor elevators with usage deviating from targets, and allowing for fine-tuning with factors like traveling distance and energy costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the allocation algorithm selects the elevator with the smallest order number to serve calls, then the allocation process is simple and deterministic, but the wear and tear on that specific elevator increases disproportionately
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic call allocation that adapts based on accumulated usage data. The system continuously monitors actual usage of each elevator and adjusts allocation decisions in real-time, transitioning from a static smallest-order-number rule to a dynamic distribution strategy that responds to wear conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback loops where usage data from each elevator is collected, compared against target usage values, and used to adjust future allocation decisions. This closed-loop control ensures that allocation continuously adapts to actual wear patterns, preventing any single elevator from being consistently overused
2Productivity
If the allocation algorithm consistently selects the same elevator (smallest order number), then call allocation is fast and requires minimal computation, but maintenance needs increase for that elevator
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary calculations of target usage values and compares actual usage against these targets before making allocation decisions. By pre-computing usage distributions and having comparison logic ready, the system maintains fast decision-making while incorporating wear-balancing considerations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the allocation parameter from a fixed criterion (smallest order number) to a dynamic parameter (usage deviation from target). This parameter transformation allows the system to maintain computational efficiency while achieving more balanced wear distribution across elevators
3Productivity
If elevators have uneven wear and tear, then some elevators can be used more intensively to maximize system productivity, but the overall system reliability decreases due to premature failures
Solution Approach 1:
The system works to create equipotential conditions across all elevators by balancing their usage. By distributing calls so that each elevator operates at similar usage levels relative to their targets, the system prevents any single elevator from becoming a reliability bottleneck while maintaining overall productivity
Data Source
AI summary
The invention improves control of wear and tear of the elevators in an elevator group having a plurality of elevators and at least one group control unit. The actual usage of each elevator is recorded, and the group control unit executes at least one allocation algorithm for selecting which elevator of the elevator group is used to serve a call. The allocation algorithm compares the actual usage of at least two elevators against respective target usages and selects the elevator having its actual usage most deviating from the target usage to serve an outstanding call. With the invention, the wear and tear of elevators may be balanced, or certain elevators may be set to reach the end of the maintenance period sooner.