Escalator Scenario Detection Activation by Running Direction

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Solution Overview

Problem

The increasing number of scenario detection modules for escalators poses a challenge to the computing capability of monitoring apparatuses, making it difficult to comprehensively monitor escalator safety without overburdening the system.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus that utilize running direction information, monitoring position information, and environmental information to selectively activate or deactivate scenario detection modules, optimizing their execution based on these factors to conserve computing resources.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If the number of sensors and detection modules is increased to improve detection accuracy, then detection precision is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection accuracyVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple detection functions into a single integrated detection module. The detection module integrates optical sensors, infrared sensors, and other detection elements into one unified structure that can detect multiple parameters (presence, temperature, humidity) simultaneously, thereby improving detection accuracy without proportionally increasing device complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The detection module is designed with multi-functionality to perform various detection tasks using a single device. It can detect human presence, measure temperature, measure humidity, and trigger different responses based on the detected parameters, reducing the need for multiple separate sensors and modules

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If scenario detection modules are added to detect and respond to various scenarios, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvescenario detection capabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The escalator system dynamically adjusts its operation based on detected scenarios. The control unit receives data from the detection module and automatically modifies escalator parameters (speed, direction, or shutdown) according to the detected scenario, enabling adaptive response without requiring complex mechanical modifications

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements a feedback mechanism where the detection module continuously monitors the environment, sends data to the control unit, and the control unit adjusts escalator operation accordingly. This closed-loop feedback system enables the escalator to adapt to various scenarios (pedestrian crossing, emergency situations, maintenance modes) through intelligent control rather than complex hardware

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentEP4261173B1Method and apparatus for setting state of scenario detection module of escalator
Publication Date: 2026.05.06 KONE OYJ
  • EP4261173B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4261173B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4261173B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4

AI summary

A method for setting the state of a scenario detection module of an escalator (101). The method comprises: acquiring running direction information of an escalator (101); and according to at least the running direction information, setting the states of the scenario detection modules U1, U2,..., UN in a scenario detection module set U for the escalator (101) to be activated or disabled. The computing capability required for scenario detection of the escalator (101) can be lowered.