Multicar Elevator Control Entity for Shaft Throughput
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multicar elevator systems face challenges in efficiently controlling the movement of multiple elevator cars within the same shaft, particularly in improving operational efficiency and user interface functionality.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of an operational entity with a user interface comprising first and second input elements allows for the selection and control of multiple elevator cars, enabling movement control in predefined directions and stopping functions through intuitive input mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple elevator cars travel in the same shaft upwards and downwards, then the productivity of the elevator system is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need for coordinated control of multiple cars
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into multiple operational entities, each responsible for controlling a specific elevator car. Each operational entity has its own user interface and control logic, allowing independent management of each car while maintaining system-wide coordination through the shared shaft infrastructure
Solution Approach 2:
The operational entity is designed as a universal control unit that can manage multiple elevator cars through a single interface. The system provides multi-functional capabilities including selection of different cars, direction control, and stopping functions through the same operational entity, reducing the need for separate control systems for each car
2Ease of operation
If an operational entity controls movement of multiple elevator cars, then the ease of operation is improved through centralized control, but the device complexity increases due to additional control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The operational entity serves as a universal control interface that can select and control any of the multiple elevator cars through the same set of input elements. The first input element selects the target car, while the second input element controls movement direction, providing a simplified unified interface for managing complex multi-car operations
Solution Approach 2:
The operational entity acts as an intermediary between the user and the multiple elevator cars. It receives user inputs through the user interface, processes the selection and control signals, and translates them into appropriate control commands for the selected elevator car, simplifying the interaction model
Data Source
AI summary
An operational entity for controlling movement of a plurality of elevator cars of a multicar elevator system includes a user interface having a first input element and a second input element. The user interface generates, on the basis of the first input element, an indication of selection of at least one elevator car from among the plurality of elevator cars to be moved; and generates, on the basis of the second input element, one or more control signals indicative of a request to control the movement of the selected at least one elevator car in a predefined direction. A multicar elevator system including the operational entity is provided.