Multi-Stage Elevator Waiting Zone System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Building systems, particularly elevator systems, face challenges in minimizing waiting times and crowd congestion, which can lead to discomfort and increased risk of virus and bacteria transmission among users.
Innovation Solution
A building system with a multi-stage waiting zone system, where users are guided through a first and second waiting zone, using a call input apparatus and control apparatus to manage elevator calls and notifications, reducing crowd density and improving user flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If users are allowed to wait in a single waiting zone near the elevator, then waiting time is reduced, but crowd congestion and virus transmission risk increase
Solution Approach 1:
The waiting area is divided into multiple waiting zones (first waiting zone, second waiting zone, third waiting zone) arranged in sequence from far to near the elevator. Users are distributed across these zones rather than concentrated in one location, reducing crowd density while maintaining efficient elevator access. The segmentation allows users to wait at different distances from the elevator without creating dangerous crowding.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a multi-stage waiting zone system is implemented, then crowd congestion is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses automated notification technology to guide users through the waiting zones. The notification device automatically informs users which waiting zone to occupy and when to proceed to the elevator, eliminating the need for manual crowd management. Users self-regulate their positioning based on notifications, reducing the need for complex active control mechanisms while maintaining effective crowd distribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The control device receives elevator status information and provides real-time feedback to users through notifications. The system monitors elevator availability and dynamically adjusts notifications to guide users through appropriate waiting zones, creating a closed-loop control system that manages crowd flow without requiring complex mechanical infrastructure.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If users are guided through multiple waiting zones, then virus transmission risk is reduced, but waiting time may increase
Solution Approach 1:
Users are notified in advance about which waiting zone to occupy before the elevator arrives. The notification device provides preliminary guidance, allowing users to position themselves appropriately without unnecessary movement or delay when the elevator becomes available. This preliminary organization prevents last-minute rushing and reduces overall waiting time while maintaining safe distances.
Solution Approach 2:
The notification system operates periodically, providing updates to users about elevator status and appropriate waiting zones. Rather than continuous monitoring, periodic notifications are sent at relevant moments (when elevator status changes), reducing information overload for users while maintaining effective crowd management and minimizing unnecessary waiting time.
Data Source
AI summary
A building system includes an elevator system installed in a building. First and second waiting zones for users of the elevator system are specified, wherein the second waiting zone is located in an access region to an elevator of the elevator system. The building system further includes a call input apparatus that receives an elevator call from a user located in the first waiting zone or in a fixed environment of the first waiting zone, and a control apparatus that is communicatively connected to the call input apparatus. In response to a call input from the first waiting zone, the control apparatus can either request the user to wait there until they are called to go into the second waiting zone or can request them to immediately enter the second waiting zone. An allocated elevator can be communicated to the user in the first or second waiting zone.