Touchless Elevator Call Panel Using Proximity Sensor Input
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Solution Overview
Problem
Elevator systems pose concerns regarding the spread of bacteria and viruses through touch-based operating terminals and buttons, and existing credential systems are complex, failing to provide adequate user comfort and confidence.
Innovation Solution
An elevator system with ancillary operating panels equipped with proximity sensors that allow users to make calls without physical contact, using sensors to detect objects within a detection range and register elevator requests through a wire loop closure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If conventional push-buttons are used for elevator calls, then the system is simple and reliable, but users are exposed to bacteria and viruses through contact
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical push-button system with a proximity sensor-based detection system. The proximity sensor detects the user's hand or object approaching the panel without requiring physical contact, thereby eliminating the transmission of bacteria and viruses through touched surfaces while maintaining the elevator call functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary detection mechanism (proximity sensor) between the user and the elevator control system. Instead of direct contact with push-buttons, the sensor detects the presence or approach of the user's hand or carried objects, serving as a mediator that prevents direct contact while still enabling control input.
2Reliability
If credential systems are implemented for elevator access, then security is improved, but the system becomes complex and user comfort decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential function of access control (detecting user intent to call elevator) from the complex credential verification system. By using proximity detection, it removes the need for credentials, codes, or authentication mechanisms while still achieving reliable elevator call initiation, thereby simplifying the system and improving user comfort.
Solution Approach 2:
The proximity-based system allows users to independently initiate elevator calls simply by approaching or touching near the panel, without requiring external verification systems, security personnel, or complex authentication processes. This self-service approach maintains reliability while eliminating system complexity.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If frequent cleaning and disinfection of elevator terminals are performed, then hygiene is improved, but user confidence is not sufficiently enhanced and operational time is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a preliminary protective measure by designing the elevator control interface to never require contact in the first place. This proactive design choice eliminates the need for subsequent cleaning and disinfection activities, preventing the accumulation of contaminants rather than requiring periodic removal, thereby saving operational time while maintaining high hygiene standards.
4Ease of operation
If touchless operation is implemented using proximity sensors, then hygiene and user comfort are improved, but the detection range and accuracy must be precisely controlled
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adjusts and optimizes the detection parameters of the proximity sensor to achieve the desired balance between touchless operation and detection accuracy. By carefully controlling parameters such as detection range, sensitivity thresholds, and response triggers, the system achieves reliable hand or object detection without false positives or negatives, ensuring precise measurement while maintaining ease of use.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Provides a touchless and intuitive elevator call entry method, enhancing user comfort and confidence by reducing contact points and simplifying the call process.
Implementation Method 1
The ancillary operating panel has a proximity sensor configured to output a sensor signal to a switch interface if an object presented by the user is within a preset detection range of the proximity sensor
Data Source
AI summary
An elevator system has an elevator controller system to control movement of an elevator car between a predetermined number of floors of a building, and an elevator operating panel communicatively coupled via a multicore cable to the elevator controller system. The elevator operating panel includes at least one push-button having an open state and a closed state, wherein the push-button is configured to close in the closed state a wire loop of the multicore cable, and wherein the push-button is configured to be in the closed state when a user presses the push-button to enter an elevator call. In addition, the elevator system includes an ancillary operating panel arranged next to the elevator operating panel and having a proximity sensor for touchless entry of an elevator call.