Mobile Robot Elevator Calling to Cut Waiting Time
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing elevator systems face challenges in improving user experience due to waiting times and cumbersome methods for generating elevator control signals, such as using distant call devices or mobile apps, which require extra effort and configuration.
Innovation Solution
An elevator system incorporating a mobile robot that generates control signals based on real-time and statistical data to optimize its positioning and interaction with users, allowing for efficient and user-friendly elevator control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If traditional elevator call devices are arranged in the elevator doorway, then the system structure is simple, but users experience long waiting times as the elevator must be called from a distance
Solution Approach 1:
A mobile robot acts as an intermediary between the user and the elevator system. The robot moves to the user's location, receives the elevator call request, and transmits it to the elevator controller, eliminating the need for users to travel to distant call devices while maintaining simple elevator infrastructure
Solution Approach 2:
The call-giving function is made dynamic by deploying a mobile robot that can change its position according to user needs. Instead of fixed call devices at specific locations, the system dynamically positions the call interface at the user's location, reducing waiting time without complicating the overall system
2Loss of time
If call giving devices are arranged distantly from the elevator, then users can call the elevator earlier, but users must walk extra distance to reach the call device
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile robot serves as a mobile intermediary that brings the call-giving function to the user rather than requiring the user to reach a distant fixed device. The robot receives the elevator request at the user's location and relays it to the elevator system, eliminating extra walking while enabling early elevator calls
3Adaptability or versatility
If mobile phones or terminal devices are used for elevator calls, then users can select optimal timing, but the system requires application installation and configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile robot is equipped with autonomous capabilities to detect users, approach them, and initiate elevator calls without requiring user configuration or terminal device setup. The robot self-manages the interaction process, providing call timing flexibility while keeping the system simple to use
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile robot acts as an intermediary that eliminates the need for complex terminal device integration. Instead of requiring users to configure mobile applications or establish connections, the robot handles all communication between the user and elevator system, providing flexibility without complexity
4Ease of operation
If terminal devices are used for elevator control, then personalized control is possible, but connection establishment becomes cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile robot autonomously detects users, approaches them, and establishes control without requiring users to initiate connections or configure devices. The robot self-manages the interaction, providing personalized control while eliminating cumbersome connection setup
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile robot serves as a physical intermediary that simplifies the control interface. Instead of requiring users to establish digital connections with terminal devices, the robot provides direct, intuitive control through its presence and interaction, maintaining personalized control without connection complexity
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for controlling an elevator. In the method at least one control signal is generated for instructing the at least one mobile robot to a predetermined position. The at least one mobile robot generates at least one control signal to the elevator controller for controlling an elevator in response to an interaction with at least one user in the predetermined position. The invention also relates to an elevator system and a mobile robot implementing at least portions of the method.