Modular Elevator Architecture for Plug-In Safety Module Recognition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Elevator systems require frequent software updates and hardware modifications when additional safety modules are added, necessitating a more efficient method for integrating sub-modules without architectural changes.
Innovation Solution
A modular elevator system with a main module and sub-modules that utilize a configuration mode, detection mode, and elevator operation mode, allowing sub-modules to be added and recognized without software updates or hardware modifications through a plug-and-play communication protocol.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If additional sub-modules are added to provide new safety functions, then the system functionality is improved, but software updates and hardware modifications are required which increases system complexity and maintenance burden
Solution Approach 1:
The safety system is divided into a main module and multiple independent sub-modules, each capable of being added or removed without affecting the core system architecture. This segmentation allows individual sub-modules to be updated or modified independently, reducing the need for system-wide software updates and hardware modifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The main module is designed with universal communication capabilities that can interface with various types of sub-modules through standardized protocols. This multi-functionality allows the system to accommodate different safety functions through interchangeable sub-modules without requiring changes to the main module's hardware or software architecture.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the system architecture is optimized at the design level to accommodate additional modules, then future expandability is improved, but frequent software updates and hardware modifications are still necessary which reduces ease of operation
Solution Approach 1:
The communication protocol and interface standards are pre-established in the main module during manufacturing, allowing sub-modules to be added without requiring real-time software updates or hardware modifications. The preliminary configuration includes standardized communication channels that enable plug-and-play functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically detects and configures newly added sub-modules through the standardized communication protocol without requiring manual software updates or hardware modifications. The main module autonomously integrates new sub-modules by recognizing their identification signals and establishing communication channels automatically.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method and elevator system includes a main module that is operable in a configuration mode, a detection mode, and an elevator operation mode. At least one sub-module is connectable to the main module when in the configuration mode, and the sub-module has an initialization mode and a recognized mode. At least one activation tool is selectively actuated by a user to activate the detection mode. In response to activation of the detection mode, the main module returns to the configuration mode and initiates communication with the sub-module while in the initialization mode. In response to communication from the main module, the sub-module communicates a plurality of sub-module characteristics to the main module. In response to review and certification of the plurality of sub-module characteristics, the main module accepts the sub-module as an approved sub-module and the sub-module enters the recognized mode.