XU JIE
RUDD JONATHAN
PALAZZOLA MICHAEL
GRACELACIO DA PAIXÃO REINALDO (BR)
BARCK CHRISTIAN (BR)
BOSCHIN FERNANDO (BR)
KIPPER FABIO (BR)
SASSO VIERA CHRISTIAN (BR)
ROTH SERGIO (BR)
THYSSENKRUPP ELEVATOR AG (DE)
PARK SHAWN (US)
WO2013106928A1 | 2013-07-25 |
US20160292521A1 | 2016-10-06 | |||
US20150274485A1 | 2015-10-01 | |||
US7711565B1 | 2010-05-04 | |||
US20060243533A1 | 2006-11-02 | |||
US20070119660A1 | 2007-05-31 |
WHAT IS CLAIMED IS: 1. An elevator system, comprising: an elevator car; a user input device; a drive controller configured to actuate a drive motor for moving the elevator car; and a traffic monitoring system configured to be mounted to the elevator car, the traffic monitoring system comprising: a housing; at least one object detection sensor; and at least one processor programmed or configured to: generate, with the at least one object detection sensor, a map of objects in the elevator car; determine an available capacity of the elevator car based on the map generated by the at least one object detection sensor; receive, from the user input device, a command instructing the drive controller to stop the elevator car at a predetermined location; and in response to determining that the available capacity is below a threshold, override the command. 2. The elevator system of claim 1, wherein the at least one object detection sensor comprises at least one infrared sensor; and wherein generating the map of objects in the elevator car comprises: generating a thermal image of an interior space of the elevator car; and identifying a number of elements in the thermal image as objects in the elevator car using a heat signature recognition algorithm. 3. The elevator system of claim 1, wherein the at least one object detection sensor comprises at least one camera; and wherein generating the map of objects in the elevator car comprises: generating a photographic image of an interior space of the elevator car; and identifying a number of elements in the photographic image as objects in the elevator car using an image recognition algorithm. 4. The elevator system of claim 1, wherein determining the available capacity of the elevator car comprises: determining a signature of one or more objects in the elevator car based on the map of objects generated by the at least one object detection sensor; and comparing the signature of the one or more objects in the elevator car to an area capacity of the elevator car. 5. The elevator system of claim 1, wherein the at least one object detection sensor comprises an infrared sensor and a camera; and wherein generating the map of objects in the elevator car comprises: generating a thermal image of an interior space of the elevator car with the infrared sensor; generating a photographic image of an interior space of the elevator car with the camera; and comparing elements identified in the thermal image to elements identified in the photographic image. 6. The elevator system of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of elevator cars, wherein overriding the command comprises causing the drive controller to reassign the command from stopping a first of the plurality of elevator cars to stopping a second of the plurality of elevator cars. 7. An elevator system, comprising: an elevator car; a user input device; a drive controller configured to actuate a drive motor for moving the elevator car; and a traffic monitoring system configured to be mounted to the elevator car, the traffic monitoring system comprising: a housing; at least one object detection sensor; and at least one processor programmed or configured to: generate, with the at least one object detection sensor, a map of objects in the elevator car; determine a number of people in the elevator car based on the map generated by the at least one object detection sensor; determine a number of expected security inputs based on the number of people in the elevator car; receive, from the user input device, a command instructing the drive controller to move the elevator car to a predetermined location; receive, from the user input device, at least one security input; and in response to determining that the number of security inputs received from the user input device is less than the number of expected security inputs, override the command. 8. The elevator system of claim 7, wherein the user input device comprises an RFID reader, and wherein receiving at least one security input comprises detecting, via the RFID reader, at least one user scanning at least one RFID tag. 9. The elevator system of claim 7, wherein the at least one processor is further programmed or configured to: prior to overriding the command, issue an audio or video request, via the user input device, requesting the expected number of security input be received. 10. The elevator system of claim 7, wherein the at least one processor is further programmed or configured to: in response to determining that the number of security inputs received from the user input device is less than the number of expected security inputs, activate an alarm system of the elevator system. 11. A computer-implemented method for controlling an elevator system, comprising: mounting a traffic monitoring system in an elevator car of the elevator system, the traffic monitoring system including: at least one processor; and at least one object detection sensor; and generating, with the at least one object detection sensor, a map of objects in the elevator car; determining, with the at least one processor, an available capacity of the elevator car based on the map generated by the at least one object detection sensor; receiving, from a user input device, a command instructing a drive controller of the elevator system to stop the elevator car at a predetermined location; and in response to determining that the available capacity determined by the at least one processor is below a threshold, overriding the command. 12. The method of claim 11, wherein the at least one object detection sensor comprises at least one infrared sensor; and wherein generating the map of objects in the elevator car comprises: generating a thermal image of an interior space of the elevator car; and identifying a number of elements in the thermal image as objects in the elevator car using a heat signature recognition algorithm. 13. The method of claim 11, wherein the at least one object detection sensor comprises at least one camera; and wherein generating the map of objects in the elevator car copmrises: generating a photographic image of an interior space of the elevator car; and identifying a number of elements in the photographic image as objects in the elevator car using an image recognition algorithm. 14. The method of claim 11, wherein determining the available capacity of the elevator car comprises: determining a signature of one or more objects in the elevator car based on the map of objects generated by the at least one object detection sensor; and comparing the signature of the one or more objects in the elevator car to an area capacity of the elevator car. 15. The method of claim 11, wherein the at least one object detection sensor comprises an infrared sensor and a camera; and wherein generating the map of objects in the elevator car comprises: generating a thermal image of an interior space of the elevator car with the infrared sensor; generating a photographic image of an interior space of the elevator car with the camera; and comparing elements identified in the thermal image to elements identified in the photographic image. 16. The method of claim 11, wherein the elevator system comprises a plurality of elevator cars; and wherein overriding the command comprises causing the drive controller to reassign the command from stopping a first of the plurality of elevator cars to stopping a second of the plurality of elevator cars. 17. A computer-implemented method for controlling an elevator system, comprising: mounting a traffic monitoring system in an elevator car of the elevator system, the traffic monitoring system including: at least one processor; and at least one object detection sensor; generating, with the at least one object detection sensor, a map of objects in the elevator car; determining, with the at least one processor, a number of people in the elevator car based on the map generated by the at least one object detection sensor; determining, with the at least one processor, a number of expected security inputs based on the number of people in the elevator car; receiving, from a user input device, a command instructing a drive controller of the elevator system to move the elevator car to a predetermined location; receiving, from the user input device, at least one security input; and in response to determining that the number of security inputs received from the user input device is less than the number of expected security inputs, overriding the command. 18. The method of claim 17, wherein the user input device comprises an RFID reader, and wherein receiving at least one security input comprises detecting, with the RFID reader, at least one user scanning at least one RFID tag. 19. The method of claim 17, prior to overriding the command, issuing an audio or video request, via the user input device, requesting the expected number of security input be received. 20. The method of claim 17, further comprising: in response to determining that the number of security inputs received from the user input device is less than the number of expected security inputs, activating an alarm system of the elevator system. |
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 62/551,530, filed August 29, 2017, entitled "People Counter", the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Field of the Invention
[0002] The present disclosure is generally directed to an elevator traffic monitoring and control system, and more particularly to an elevator traffic monitoring and control system for altering or overriding, based on traffic data, a command input by a user.
Description of Related Art
[0003] Elevators for transporting passengers and goods vertically and horizontally between and across floors are ubiquitous in both commercial and residential buildings. Elevator systems, especially in buildings experiencing high levels of traffic, often include a bank of several elevator cars to more efficiently transport passengers and goods. Typically, an elevator system includes buttons or other input devices that allow a passenger to select a destination prior to or upon entering the elevator car. A motor or actuator moves the car to the selected destination.
[0004] Modern elevator systems often utilize at least partially software-based controllers programmed to execute specific and/or customized tasks. For example, some of the elevator cars in an elevator system may be dedicated to servicing only specific floors, thereby expediting transport of passengers to and from highly trafficked areas. Elevator systems may also implement software-based security protocols such as requiring a passenger to scan or input identifying information before the elevator car is moved to a secured floor.
[0005] Some elevator systems may also be programmed to switch between various operating modes based on the time or day. For example, during typically low traffic times such as nights and weekends, some elevator cars may be taken out of service to conserve energy.
[0006] A disadvantage of present elevator systems is that the programming of the controllers relies on human observation of traffic patterns of the elevator. When elevator systems are designed or updated, traffic patterns are manually monitored by designers riding in the elevator cars and recording the ingress and egress of passengers and goods over a given time frame. Such analysis naturally requires a balance between the man hours of the designers and the amount of data obtained, often resulting in inaccurate and/or incomplete data collection. As a result of the deficiencies of human-based data collection, the programming of the elevator may not accurately reflect the traffic management needs of the elevator system, leading to inefficient and delayed transport of passengers and goods. As such, there exists a need for devices and methods capable of accurately monitoring elevator traffic over long periods of time.
[0007] Another disadvantage of present elevator systems is that they fail to account for the presence of people and other objects in the elevator cars during real-time operation of the elevator system. That is, elevator traffic analysis is conventionally used to design elevator systems, but such traffic analysis is neither performed nor implemented into the elevator system programming in real time. This deficiency may cause inefficient and delayed transport of passengers and goods and may also result in passengers accessing secured areas of a building without presenting the proper security clearances. As such, there exists a need for devices and methods that affect the operation of elevator systems in real time based on occupancy and traffic data.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] In view of the foregoing, there exists a need for more efficient elevator control systems that accurately monitor elevator system traffic. In particular, there exists a need for elevator control systems utilizing continuous traffic monitoring to cause a drive controller of the elevator system to execute commands.
[0009] Aspects of the present disclosure are directed to an elevator system. The elevator system includes an elevator car, a user input device, a drive controller configured to actuate a drive motor for moving the elevator car, and a traffic monitoring system configured to be mounted to the elevator car. The traffic monitoring system includes a housing, at least one object detection sensor, and at least one processor. The at least one processor is programmed or configured to generate, with the at least one object detection sensor, a map of objects in the elevator car; determine an available capacity of the elevator car based on the map generated by the at least one object detection sensor; receive, from the user input device, a command instructing the drive controller to stop the elevator car at a predetermined location; and in response to determining that the available capacity is below a threshold, override the command. [0010] In some aspects, the at least one object detection sensor includes at least one infrared sensor. Generating the map of objects in the elevator car includes generating a thermal image of an interior space of the elevator car and identifying a number of elements in the thermal image as objects in the elevator car using a heat signature recognition algorithm.
[0011] In some aspects, the at least one object detection sensor includes at least one camera. Generating the map of objects in the elevator car includes generating a photographic image of an interior space of the elevator car and identifying a number of elements in the photographic image as objects in the elevator car using an image recognition algorithm.
[0012] In some aspects, determining the available capacity of the elevator car includes determining a signature of one or more objects in the elevator car based on the map of objects generated by the at least one object detection sensor and comparing the signature of the one or more objects in the elevator car to an area capacity of the elevator car.
[0013] In some aspects, the at least one object detection sensor includes an infrared sensor and a camera. Generating the map of objects in the elevator car includes generating a thermal image of an interior space of the elevator car with the infrared sensor, generating a photographic image of an interior space of the elevator car with the camera, and comparing elements identified in the thermal image to elements identified in the photographic image.
[0014] In some aspects, the elevator system further includes a plurality of elevator cars. Overriding the command includes causing the drive controller to reassign the command from stopping a first of the plurality of elevator cars to stopping a second of the plurality of elevator cars.
[0015] Other aspects of the present disclosure are directed to an elevator system. The elevator system includes an elevator car, a user input device, a drive controller configured to actuate a drive motor for moving the elevator car, and a traffic monitoring system configured to be mounted to the elevator car. The traffic monitoring system includes a housing, at least one object detection sensor, and at least one processor. The at least one processor is programmed or configured to generate, with the at least one object detection sensor, a map of objects in the elevator car; determine a number of people in the elevator car based on the map generated by the at least one object detection sensor; determine a number of expected security inputs based on the number of people in the elevator car; receive, from the user input device, a command instructing the drive controller to move the elevator car to a predetermined location; receive, from the user input device, at least one security input; and in response to determining that the number of security inputs received from the user input device is less than the number of expected security inputs, override the command.
[0016] In some aspects, the user input device includes an RFID reader. Receiving at least one security input includes detecting, via the RFID reader, at least one user scanning at least one RFID tag.
[0017] In some aspects, the at least one processor is further programmed or configured to, prior to overriding the command, issue an audio or video request, via the user input device, requesting the expected number of security input be received.
[0018] In some aspects, the at least one processor is further programmed or configured to, in response to determining that the number of security inputs received from the user input device is less than the number of expected security inputs, activate an alarm system of the elevator system.
[0019] Other aspects of the present disclosure are directed to a computer-implemented method for controlling an elevator system. The method includes mounting a traffic monitoring system in an elevator car of the elevator system. The traffic monitoring system includes at least one processor, and at least one object detection sensor. The method further includes generating, with the at least one object detection sensor, a map of objects in the elevator car; determining, with the at least one processor, an available capacity of the elevator car based on the map generated by the at least one object detection sensor; receiving, from a user input device, a command instructing a drive controller of the elevator system to stop the elevator car at a predetermined location; and, in response to determining that the available capacity determined by the at least one processor is below a threshold, overriding the command.
[0020] In some aspects, the at least one object detection sensor includes at least one infrared sensor. Generating the map of objects in the elevator car includes generating a thermal image of an interior space of the elevator car and identifying a number of elements in the thermal image as objects in the elevator car using a heat signature recognition algorithm.
[0021] In some aspects, the at least one object detection sensor includes at least one camera. Generating the map of objects in the elevator car includes generating a photographic image of an interior space of the elevator car and identifying a number of elements in the photographic image as objects in the elevator car using an image recognition algorithm. [0022] In some aspects, determining the available capacity of the elevator car includes determining a signature of one or more objects in the elevator car based on the map of objects generated by the at least one object detection sensor and comparing the signature of the one or more objects in the elevator car to an area capacity of the elevator car.
[0023] In some aspects, the at least one object detection sensor includes an infrared sensor and a camera. Generating the map of objects in the elevator car includes generating a thermal image of an interior space of the elevator car with the infrared sensor, generating a photographic image of an interior space of the elevator car with the camera, and comparing elements identified in the thermal image to elements identified in the photographic image.
[0024] In some aspects, the elevator system includes a plurality of elevator car. Overriding the command includes causing the drive controller to reassign the command from stopping a first of the plurality of elevator cars to stopping a second of the plurality of elevator cars.
[0025] Other aspects of the present disclosure are directed to a computer-implemented method for controlling an elevator system. The method includes mounting a traffic monitoring system in an elevator car of the elevator system. The traffic monitoring system includes at least one processor and at least one object detection sensor. The method further includes generating, with the at least one object detection sensor, a map of objects in the elevator car; determining, with the at least one processor, a number of people in the elevator car based on the map generated by the at least one object detection sensor; determining, with the at least one processor, a number of expected security inputs based on the number of people in the elevator car; receiving, from a user input device, a command instructing a drive controller of the elevator system to move the elevator car to a predetermined location; receiving, from the user input device, at least one security input; and, in response to determining that the number of security inputs received from the user input device is less than the number of expected security inputs, overriding the command.
[0026] In some aspects, the user input device includes an RFID reader. Receiving at least one security input includes detecting, with the RFID reader, at least one user scanning at least one RFID tag.
[0027] In some aspects, the method further includes, prior to overriding the command, issuing an audio or video request, via the user input device, requesting the expected number of security input be received. [0028] In some aspects, the method further includes, in response to determining that the number of security inputs received from the user input device is less than the number of expected security inputs, activating an alarm system of the elevator system.
[0029] Other aspects of the present disclosure are directed to an elevator system. The elevator system includes an elevator car, a user input device, a drive controller programmed with a plurality of operating modes, the drive controller configured to execute a first of the plurality of operating modes to actuate a drive motor for moving the elevator car, and a traffic monitoring system configured to be mounted to the elevator car. The traffic monitoring system includes a housing, at least one object detection sensor, at least one elevator position sensor, and at least one processor. The at least one processor is programmed or configured to receive, from the user input device, a plurality of commands each instructing the drive controller to move the elevator car to a predetermined location; determine, with the at least one elevator position sensor, location data of the elevator car; generate, with the at least one object detection sensor, a map of objects in the elevator car; generate traffic flow data of the elevator car based on the location data determined by the at least one elevator position sensor and the map of objects generated by the at least one object detection sensor; and cause, based on the traffic flow data, the drive controller to switch from executing the first of the plurality of operating modes to executing a second of the plurality of operating modes.
[0030] In some aspects, the at least one elevator position sensor includes at least one of a barometer, an accelerometer, a gyroscope, an altimeter, and a GPS sensor.
[0031] In some aspects, determining the location data includes recording the location at which the elevator car is located. Generating the traffic flow data of the elevator car includes recording at least one of the times at which one or more objects enter and exit the elevator car and the locations at which one or more objects enter and exit the elevator car.
[0032] In some aspects, in one of the plurality of operating modes, the drive controller bypasses one or more locations of the elevator system.
[0033] In some aspects, the user input device is programmed with a plurality of operating modes, the user input device configured to execute a first of the plurality of operating modes for receiving input from a user. The at least one processor is further programmed or configured to cause, cause, based on the traffic flow data, the user input device to switch from executing the first of the plurality of operating modes to executing a second of the plurality of operating modes. [0034] Other aspects of the present disclosure are directed to a computer-implemented method for controlling an elevator system. The method includes mounting a traffic monitoring unit in an elevator car of the elevator system. The traffic monitoring system includes at least one processor, at least one object detection sensor, and at least one elevator position sensor. The method further includes receiving, from a user input device, a plurality of commands each instructing a drive controller of the elevator system to move the elevator car to a predetermined location. The drive controller is programmed with a plurality of operating modes and is configured to execute a first of the plurality of operating modes to actuate a drive motor for moving the elevator car. The method further includes determining, with the at least one elevator position sensor, location data of the elevator car; generating, with the at least one object detection sensor, a map of objects in the elevator car; generating, with the at least one processor, traffic flow data of the elevator car based on the location data determined by the at least one elevator position sensor and the map of objects generated by the at least one object detection sensor; and causing, with the at least one processor and based on the traffic flow data, the drive controller to switch from executing the first of the plurality of operating modes to executing a second of the plurality of operating modes.
[0035] In some aspects the at least one elevator position sensor includes at least one of a barometer, an accelerometer, a gyroscope, an altimeter, and a GPS sensor.
[0036] In some aspects determining the location data includes recording a location at which the elevator car is located. Generating the traffic flow data of the elevator car includes recording at least one of the times at which one or more objects enter and exit the elevator car and the locations at which one or more objects enter and exit the elevator car.
[0037] In some aspects, in one of the plurality of operating modes, the drive controller bypasses one or more locations of the elevator system.
[0038] In some aspects the user input device is programmed with a plurality of operating modes, the user input device configured to execute a first of the plurality of operating modes for receiving input from a user. The method further includes causing, based on the traffic flow data, the user input device to switch from executing the first of the plurality of operating modes to executing a second of the plurality of operating modes.
[0039] Other aspects of the present invention are directed to a computer program product for controlling an elevator system. The computer program product includes at least one non-transitory computer-readable medium including one or more instructions. When executed by at least one processor, the one or more instructions cause the at least one processor to generate, with at least one object detection sensor of a traffic monitoring system, a map of objects in an elevator car of the elevator system; determine an available capacity of the elevator car based on the map generated by the at least one object detection sensor; receive, from a user input device of the elevator system, a command instructing a drive controller of the elevator system to stop the elevator car at a predetermined location; and, in response to determining that the determined available capacity is below a threshold, overriding the command.
[0040] In some aspects, the at least one object detection sensor includes at least one infrared sensor. Generating the map of objects in the elevator car includes generating a thermal image of an interior space of the elevator car and identifying a number of elements in the thermal image as objects in the elevator car using a heat signature recognition algorithm.
[0041] In some aspects, the at least one object detection sensor includes at least one camera. Generating the map of objects in the elevator car includes generating a photographic image of an interior space of the elevator car and identifying a number of elements in the photographic image as objects in the elevator car using an image recognition algorithm.
[0042] In some aspects, determining the available capacity of the elevator car includes determining a signature of one or more objects in the elevator car based on the map of objects generated by the at least one object detection sensor and comparing the signature of the one or more objects in the elevator car to an area capacity of the elevator car.
[0043] In some aspects, the at least one object detection sensor includes an infrared sensor and a camera. Generating the map of objects in the elevator car includes generating a thermal image of an interior space of the elevator car with the infrared sensor, generating a photographic image of an interior space of the elevator car with the camera, and comparing elements identified in the thermal image to elements identified in the photographic image.
[0044] In some aspects the elevator system includes a plurality of elevator cars. Overriding the command includes causing the drive controller to reassign the command from stopping a first of the plurality of elevator cars to stopping a second of the plurality of elevator cars.
[0045] Other aspects of the present invention are directed to a computer program product for controlling an elevator system. The computer program product includes at least one non-transitory computer-readable medium including one or more instructions. When executed by at least one processor, the one or more instructions cause the at least one processor to generate, with an object detection sensor of a traffic monitoring system, a map of objects in the elevator car; determine a number of people in the elevator car based on the map generated by the at least one object detection sensor; determine a number of expected security inputs based on the number of people in the elevator car; receive, from a user input device of the elevator system, a command instructing a drive controller of the elevator system to move the elevator car to a predetermined location; receive, from the user input device, at least one security input; and, in response to determining that the number of security inputs received from the user input device is less than the number of expected security inputs, override the command.
[0046] In some aspects, the user input device includes an RFID reader. Receiving at least one security input includes detecting, via the RFID reader, at least one user scanning at least one RFID tag.
[0047] In some aspects, the one or more instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, further cause the at least one processor to, prior to overriding the command, issue an audio or video request, via the user input device, requesting the expected number of security input be received.
[0048] In some aspects, the one or more instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, further cause the at least one processor to, in response to determining that the number of security inputs received from the user input device is less than the number of expected security inputs, activate an alarm system of the elevator system.
[0049] Other aspects of the present invention are directed to a computer program product for controlling an elevator system. The computer program product includes at least one non-transitory computer-readable medium including one or more instructions. When executed by at least one processor, the one or more instructions cause the at least one processor to receive, from a user input device of the elevator system, at least one command instructing a drive controller of the elevator system to move the elevator car to a predetermined location. The drive controller is programmed with a plurality of operating modes and is configured to execute a first of the plurality of operating modes to actuate a drive motor for moving the elevator car. The one or more instructions further cause the at least one processor to determine, with at least one elevator position sensor of a traffic control system, location data of the elevator car; generate, with at least one object detection sensor of the traffic control system, a map of objects in the elevator car; generate traffic flow data of the elevator car based on the location data determined by the at least one elevator position sensor and the map of objects generated by the at least one object detection sensor; and cause, based on the traffic flow data, the drive controller to switch from executing the first of the plurality of operating modes to executing a second of the plurality of operating modes.
[0050] In some aspects, the at least one elevator position sensor includes at least one of a barometer, an accelerometer, a gyroscope, an altimeter, and a GPS sensor.
[0051] In some aspects, determining the location data includes a recording the location at which the elevator car is located. Generating the traffic flow data of the elevator car includes recording at least one of the times at which one or more objects enter and exit the elevator car and the locations at which one or more objects enter and exit the elevator car.
[0052] In some aspects, in a first of the plurality of operating modes, the drive controller bypasses one or more locations of the elevator system.
[0053] In some aspects, the user input device is programmed with a plurality of operating modes. The user input device is configured to execute a first of the plurality of operating modes for receiving input from a user. The one or more instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, further cause the at least one processor to cause, based on the traffic flow data, the user input device to switch from executing the first of the plurality of operating modes to executing a second of the plurality of operating modes.
[0054] Further aspects of the present disclosure will now be described in the following numbered clauses:
[0055] Clause 1. An elevator system, comprising: an elevator car; a user input device; a drive controller configured to actuate a drive motor for moving the elevator car; and a traffic monitoring system configured to be mounted to the elevator car, the traffic monitoring system comprising: a housing; at least one object detection sensor; and at least one processor programmed or configured to: generate, with the at least one object detection sensor, a map of objects in the elevator car; determine an available capacity of the elevator car based on the map generated by the at least one object detection sensor; receive, from the user input device, a command instructing the drive controller to stop the elevator car at a predetermined location; and in response to determining that the available capacity is below a threshold, override the command.
[0056] Clause 2. The elevator system of clause 1, wherein the at least one object detection sensor comprises at least one infrared sensor; and wherein generating the map of objects in the elevator car comprises: generating a thermal image of an interior space of the elevator car; and identifying a number of elements in the thermal image as objects in the elevator car using a heat signature recognition algorithm.
[0057] Clause 3. The elevator system of clause 1 or 2, wherein the at least one object detection sensor comprises at least one camera; and wherein generating the map of objects in the elevator car comprises: generating a photographic image of an interior space of the elevator car; and identifying a number of elements in the photographic image as objects in the elevator car using an image recognition algorithm.
[0058] Clause 4. The elevator system of any of clauses 1 to 3, wherein determining the available capacity of the elevator car comprises: determining a signature of one or more objects in the elevator car based on the map of objects generated by the at least one object detection sensor; and comparing the signature of the one or more objects in the elevator car to an area capacity of the elevator car.
[0059] Clause 5. The elevator system of any of clauses 1 to 4, wherein the at least one object detection sensor comprises an infrared sensor and a camera; and wherein generating the map of objects in the elevator car comprises: generating a thermal image of an interior space of the elevator car with the infrared sensor; generating a photographic image of an interior space of the elevator car with the camera; and comparing elements identified in the thermal image to elements identified in the photographic image.
[0060] Clause 6. The elevator system of any of clauses 1 to 5, further comprising a plurality of elevator cars, wherein overriding the command comprises causing the drive controller to reassign the command from stopping a first of the plurality of elevator cars to stopping a second of the plurality of elevator cars.
[0061] Clause 7. An elevator system, comprising: an elevator car; a user input device; a drive controller configured to actuate a drive motor for moving the elevator car; and a traffic monitoring system configured to be mounted to the elevator car, the traffic monitoring system comprising: a housing; at least one object detection sensor; and at least one processor programmed or configured to: generate, with the at least one object detection sensor, a map of objects in the elevator car; determine a number of people in the elevator car based on the map generated by the at least one object detection sensor; determine a number of expected security inputs based on the number of people in the elevator car; receive, from the user input device, a command instructing the drive controller to move the elevator car to a predetermined location; receive, from the user input device, at least one security input; and in response to determining that the number of security inputs received from the user input device is less than the number of expected security inputs, override the command.
[0062] Clause 8. The elevator system of clause 7, wherein the user input device comprises an RFID reader, and wherein receiving at least one security input comprises detecting, via the RFID reader, at least one user scanning at least one RFID tag.
[0063] Clause 9. The elevator system of clause 7 or 8, wherein the at least one processor is further programmed or configured to: prior to overriding the command, issue an audio or video request, via the user input device, requesting the expected number of security input be received.
[0064] Clause 10. The elevator system of any of clauses 7 to 9, wherein the at least one processor is further programmed or configured to: in response to determining that the number of security inputs received from the user input device is less than the number of expected security inputs, activate an alarm system of the elevator system.
[0065] Clause 11. A computer-implemented method for controlling an elevator system, comprising: mounting a traffic monitoring system in an elevator car of the elevator system, the traffic monitoring system including: at least one processor; and at least one object detection sensor; and generating, with the at least one object detection sensor, a map of objects in the elevator car; determining, with the at least one processor, an available capacity of the elevator car based on the map generated by the at least one object detection sensor; receiving, from a user input device, a command instructing a drive controller of the elevator system to stop the elevator car at a predetermined location; and in response to determining that the available capacity determined by the at least one processor is below a threshold, overriding the command.
[0066] Clause 12. The method of clause 11, wherein the at least one object detection sensor comprises at least one infrared sensor; and wherein generating the map of objects in the elevator car comprises: generating a thermal image of an interior space of the elevator car; and identifying a number of elements in the thermal image as objects in the elevator car using a heat signature recognition algorithm.
[0067] Clause 13. The method of clause 11 or 12, wherein the at least one object detection sensor comprises at least one camera; and wherein generating the map of objects in the elevator car comprises: generating a photographic image of an interior space of the elevator car; and identifying a number of elements in the photographic image as objects in the elevator car using an image recognition algorithm.
[0068] Clause 14. The method of any of clauses 11 to 13, wherein determining the available capacity of the elevator car comprises: determining a signature of one or more objects in the elevator car based on the map of objects generated by the at least one object detection sensor; and comparing the signature of the one or more objects in the elevator car to an area capacity of the elevator car.
[0069] Clause 15. The method of any of clauses 11 to 14, wherein the at least one object detection sensor comprises an infrared sensor and a camera; and wherein generating the map of objects in the elevator car comprises: generating a thermal image of an interior space of the elevator car with the infrared sensor; generating a photographic image of an interior space of the elevator car with the camera; and comparing elements identified in the thermal image to elements identified in the photographic image.
[0070] Clause 16. The method of any of clauses 11 to 15, wherein the elevator system comprises a plurality of elevator cars; and wherein overriding the command comprises causing the drive controller to reassign the command from stopping a first of the plurality of elevator cars to stopping a second of the plurality of elevator cars.
[0071] Clause 17. A computer-implemented method for controlling an elevator system, comprising: mounting a traffic monitoring system in an elevator car of the elevator system, the traffic monitoring system including: at least one processor; and at least one object detection sensor; generating, with the at least one object detection sensor, a map of objects in the elevator car; determining, with the at least one processor, a number of people in the elevator car based on the map generated by the at least one object detection sensor; determining, with the at least one processor, a number of expected security inputs based on the number of people in the elevator car; receiving, from a user input device, a command instructing a drive controller of the elevator system to move the elevator car to a predetermined location; receiving, from the user input device, at least one security input; and in response to determining that the number of security inputs received from the user input device is less than the number of expected security inputs, overriding the command.
[0072] Clause 18. The method of clause 17, wherein the user input device comprises an RFID reader, and wherein receiving at least one security input comprises detecting, with the RFID reader, at least one user scanning at least one RFID tag. [0073] Clause 19. The method of clause 17 or 18, further comprising: prior to overriding the command, issuing an audio or video request, via the user input device, requesting the expected number of security input be received.
[0074] Clause 20. The method of any of clauses 17 to 19, further comprising: in response to determining that the number of security inputs received from the user input device is less than the number of expected security inputs, activating an alarm system of the elevator system.
[0075] Clause 21. An elevator system, comprising: an elevator car; a user input device; a drive controller programmed with a plurality of operating modes, the drive controller configured to execute a first of the plurality of operating modes to actuate a drive motor for moving the elevator car; and a traffic monitoring system configured to be mounted to the elevator car, the traffic monitoring system comprising: a housing; at least one object detection sensor; at least one elevator position sensor; and at least one processor programmed or configured to: receive, from the user input device, a plurality of commands each instructing the drive controller to move the elevator car to a predetermined location; determine, with the at least one elevator position sensor, location data of the elevator car; generate, with the at least one object detection sensor, a map of objects in the elevator car; generate traffic flow data of the elevator car based on the location data determined by the at least one elevator position sensor and the map of objects generated by the at least one object detection sensor; and cause, based on the traffic flow data, the drive controller to switch from executing the first of the plurality of operating modes to executing a second of the plurality of operating modes.
[0076] Clause 22. The elevator system of clause 21, wherein the at least one elevator position sensor comprises at least one of a barometer, an accelerometer, a gyroscope, an altimeter, and a GPS sensor.
[0077] Clause 23. The elevator system of clause 21 or 22, wherein determining the location data comprises recording the location at which the elevator car is located; and wherein generating the traffic flow data of the elevator car includes recording at least one of: the times at which one or more objects enter and exit the elevator car; and the locations at which one or more objects enter and exit the elevator car.
[0078] Clause 24. The elevator system of any of clauses 21 to 23, wherein, in one of the plurality of operating modes, the drive controller bypasses one or more locations of the elevator system. [0079] Clause 25. The elevator system of any of clauses 21 to 24, wherein the user input device is programmed with a plurality of operating modes, the user input device configured to execute a first of the plurality of operating modes for receiving input from a user, and wherein the at least one processor is further programmed or configured to cause, cause, based on the traffic flow data, the user input device to switch from executing the first of the plurality of operating modes to executing a second of the plurality of operating modes.
[0080] Clause 26. A computer-implemented method for controlling an elevator system, comprising: mounting a traffic monitoring unit in an elevator car of the elevator system, the traffic monitoring system including: at least one processor; at least one object detection sensor; and at least one elevator position sensor; receiving, from a user input device, a plurality of commands each instructing a drive controller of the elevator system to move the elevator car to a predetermined location, wherein the drive controller is programmed with a plurality of operating modes and is configured to execute a first of the plurality of operating modes to actuate a drive motor for moving the elevator car; determining, with the at least one elevator position sensor, location data of the elevator car; generating, with the at least one object detection sensor, a map of objects in the elevator car; generating, with the at least one processor, traffic flow data of the elevator car based on the location data determined by the at least one elevator position sensor and the map of objects generated by the at least one object detection sensor; and causing, with the at least one processor and based on the traffic flow data, the drive controller to switch from executing the first of the plurality of operating modes to executing a second of the plurality of operating modes.
[0081] Clause 27. The method of clause 26, wherein the at least one elevator position sensor comprises at least one of a barometer, an accelerometer, a gyroscope, an altimeter, and a GPS sensor.
[0082] Clause 28. The method of clause 26 or 27, wherein determining the location data comprises recording a location at which the elevator car is located; and wherein generating the traffic flow data of the elevator car comprises recording at least one of: the times at which one or more objects enter and exit the elevator car; and the locations at which one or more objects enter and exit the elevator car.
[0083] Clause 29. The method of any of clauses 26 to 28, wherein, in one of the plurality of operating modes, the drive controller bypasses one or more locations of the elevator system. [0084] Clause 30. The method of any of clauses 26 to 29, wherein the user input device is programmed with a plurality of operating modes, the user input device configured to execute a first of the plurality of operating modes for receiving input from a user, and wherein the method further comprises causing, based on the traffic flow data, the user input device to switch from executing the first of the plurality of operating modes to executing a second of the plurality of operating modes.
[0085] Clause 31. A computer program product for controlling an elevator system, the computer program product comprising at least one non-transitory computer-readable medium including one or more instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to: generate, with at least one object detection sensor of a traffic monitoring system, a map of objects in an elevator car of the elevator system; determine an available capacity of the elevator car based on the map generated by the at least one object detection sensor; receive, from a user input device of the elevator system, a command instructing a drive controller of the elevator system to stop the elevator car at a predetermined location; and in response to determining that the determined available capacity is below a threshold, overriding the command.
[0086] Clause 32. The computer program product of clause 31, wherein the at least one object detection sensor comprises at least one infrared sensor; and wherein generating the map of objects in the elevator car comprises: generating a thermal image of an interior space of the elevator car; and identifying a number of elements in the thermal image as objects in the elevator car using a heat signature recognition algorithm.
[0087] Clause 33. The computer program product of clause 31 or 32, wherein the at least one object detection sensor comprises at least one camera; and wherein generating the map of objects in the elevator car comprises: generating a photographic image of an interior space of the elevator car; and identifying a number of elements in the photographic image as objects in the elevator car using an image recognition algorithm.
[0088] Clause 34. The computer program product of any of clauses 31 to 33, wherein determining the available capacity of the elevator car comprises: determining a signature of one or more objects in the elevator car based on the map of objects generated by the at least one object detection sensor; and comparing the signature of the one or more objects in the elevator car to an area capacity of the elevator car. [0089] Clause 35. The computer program product of any of clauses 31 to 34, wherein the at least one object detection sensor comprises an infrared sensor and a camera; and wherein generating the map of objects in the elevator car comprises: generating a thermal image of an interior space of the elevator car with the infrared sensor; generating a photographic image of an interior space of the elevator car with the camera; and comparing elements identified in the thermal image to elements identified in the photographic image.
[0090] Clause 36. The computer program product of any of clauses 31 to 35, wherein the elevator system comprises a plurality of elevator cars; and wherein overriding the command comprises causing the drive controller to reassign the command from stopping a first of the plurality of elevator cars to stopping a second of the plurality of elevator cars.
[0091] Clause 37. A computer program product for controlling an elevator system, the computer program product comprising at least one non-transitory computer-readable medium including one or more instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to: generate, with an object detection sensor of a traffic monitoring system, a map of objects in the elevator car; determine a number of people in the elevator car based on the map generated by the at least one object detection sensor; determine a number of expected security inputs based on the number of people in the elevator car; receive, from a user input device of the elevator system, a command instructing a drive controller of the elevator system to move the elevator car to a predetermined location; receive, from the user input device, at least one security input; and in response to determining that the number of security inputs received from the user input device is less than the number of expected security inputs, override the command.
[0092] Clause 38. The computer program product of clause 37, wherein the user input device comprises an RFID reader, and wherein receiving at least one security input comprises detecting, via the RFID reader, at least one user scanning at least one RFID tag.
[0093] Clause 39. The computer program product of clause 37 or 38, wherein the one or more instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, further cause the at least one processor to: prior to overriding the command, issue an audio or video request, via the user input device, requesting the expected number of security input be received.
[0094] Clause 40. The computer program product of any of clauses 37 to 39, wherein the one or more instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, further cause the at least one processor to: in response to determining that the number of security inputs received from the user input device is less than the number of expected security inputs, activate an alarm system of the elevator system.
[0095] Clause 41. A computer program product for controlling an elevator system, the computer program product comprising at least one non-transitory computer-readable medium including one or more instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to: receive, from a user input device of the elevator system, at least one command instructing a drive controller of the elevator system to move the elevator car to a predetermined location, wherein the drive controller is programmed with a plurality of operating modes and is configured to execute a first of the plurality of operating modes to actuate a drive motor for moving the elevator car; determine, with at least one elevator position sensor of a traffic control system, location data of the elevator car; generate, with at least one object detection sensor of the traffic control system, a map of objects in the elevator car; generate traffic flow data of the elevator car based on the location data determined by the at least one elevator position sensor and the map of objects generated by the at least one object detection sensor; and cause, based on the traffic flow data, the drive controller to switch from executing the first of the plurality of operating modes to executing a second of the plurality of operating modes.
[0096] Clause 42. The computer program product of clause 41, wherein the at least one elevator position sensor comprises at least one of a barometer, an accelerometer, a gyroscope, an altimeter, and a GPS sensor.
[0097] Clause 43. The computer program product of clause 41 or 42, wherein determining the location data includes a recording the location at which the elevator car is located; and wherein generating the traffic flow data of the elevator car includes recording at least one of: the times at which one or more objects enter and exit the elevator car; and the locations at which one or more objects enter and exit the elevator car.
[0098] Clause 44. The computer program product of any of clauses 41 to 43, wherein, in a first of the plurality of operating modes, the drive controller bypasses one or more locations of the elevator system.
[0099] Clause 45. The computer program product of any of clauses 41 to 44, wherein the user input device is programmed with a plurality of operating modes, the user input device configured to execute a first of the plurality of operating modes for receiving input from a user, and wherein the one or more instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, further cause the at least one processor to: cause, based on the traffic flow data, the user input device to switch from executing the first of the plurality of operating modes to executing a second of the plurality of operating modes.
[00100] These and other features and characteristics of elevator systems, methods for control thereof, and implementations thereof will become more apparent upon consideration of the following description and the appended claims with reference to the accompanying drawings, all of which form a part of this specification, wherein like reference numerals designate corresponding parts in the various figures. It is to be expressly understood, however, that the drawings are for the purpose of illustration and description only and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the disclosure. As used in the specification and claims, the singular forms of "a", "an", and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[00101] FIG. 1 is a partial perspective view of an elevator system according to an aspect of the present disclosure;
[00102] FIG. 2 is a partial perspective view of an aspect of the elevator system of FIG. 1;
[00103] FIGS. 3A-3C are interior perspective views of an elevator car of the elevator system of FIG. 1, according to aspects of the present disclosure;
[00104] FIG. 4 is a diagram of an environment in which the elevator system of FIG. 3 may be implemented;
[00105] FIG. 5 is a diagram of components of one or more devices of FIG. 4 according to an aspect of the present disclosure;
[00106] FIG. 6 is a schematic view of a traffic monitoring system according to an aspect of the present disclosure;
[00107] FIG. 7 is an interior perspective view of the elevator car of nay of FIGS. 3A-3C showing a plurality of objects occupying the elevator car;
[00108] FIG. 8 is an image of the elevator car of FIG. 7 taken from above and showing the plurality of objects occupying the elevator car;
[00109] FIG. 9 is a thermal image of the elevator car of FIG. 7 taken from above and showing the plurality of objects occupying the elevator car as heat signatures;
[00110] FIGS. 10A-10B are a map of objects generated by the traffic monitoring system of FIG. 6; [00111] FIG. 11 is a flowchart of a method for controlling the elevator system of FIGS. 1-3C according to an aspect of the present disclosure;
[00112] FIG. 12 is a flowchart of a method for controlling the elevator system of FIGS. 1-3C according to an aspect of the present disclosure;
[00113] FIG. 13 is a flowchart of a method for controlling the elevator system of FIGS. 1-3C according to an aspect of the present disclosure;
[00114] FIG. 14 is a flowchart of a method for controlling the elevator system of FIGS. 1-3C according to an aspect of the present disclosure;
[00115] FIG. 15 is a diagram of an implementation of the method of any of FIGS. 11-14 according to an aspect of the present disclosure;
[00116] FIG. 16 is an interior perspective views of an elevator car of the elevator system of FIG. 1, according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[00117] For purposes of the description hereinafter, the terms "upper", "lower", "right", "left", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "lateral", "longitudinal", and derivatives thereof shall relate to the disclosed apparatus as it is oriented in the figures. However, it is to be understood that the apparatus of the present disclosure may assume alternative variations and step sequences, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific systems and processes illustrated in the attached drawings and described in the following specification are simply exemplary examples of the apparatus disclosed herein. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics related to the examples disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting.
[00118] As used herein, the term "associated with", when used in reference to multiple features or structures, means that the multiple features or structures are in contact with, touching, directly connected to, indirectly connected to, adhered to, or integrally formed with one another.
[00119] As used herein, the term "at least one of is synonymous with "one or more of. For example, the phrase "at least one of A, B, and C" means any one of A, B, and C, or any combination of any two or more of A, B, and C. For example, "at least one of A, B, and C" includes one or more of A alone; or one or more B alone; or one or more of C alone; or one or more of A and one or more of B; or one or more of A and one or more of C; or one or more of B and one or more of C; or one or more of all of A, B, and C. Similarly, as used herein, the term "at least two of is synonymous with "two or more of. For example, the phrase "at least two of D, E, and F" means any combination of any two or more of D, E, and F. For example, "at least two of D, E, and F" includes one or more of D and one or more of E; or one or more of D and one or more of F; or one or more of E and one or more of F; or one or more of all of D, E, and F.
[00120] As used herein, the terms "communication" and "communicate" may refer to the reception, receipt, transmission, transfer, provision, and/or the like, of information (e.g., data, signals, messages, instructions, commands, and/or the like). For one unit (e.g., a device, a system, a component of a device or system, combinations thereof, and/or the like) to be in communication with another unit means that the one unit is able to directly or indirectly receive information from and/or transmit information to the other unit. This may refer to a direct or indirect connection (e.g., a direct communication connection, an indirect communication connection, and/or the like) that is wired and/or wireless in nature. Additionally, two units may be in communication with each other even though the information transmitted may be modified, processed, relayed, and/or routed between the first and second unit. For example, a first unit may be in communication with a second unit even though the first unit passively receives information and does not actively transmit information to the second unit. As another example, a first unit may be in communication with a second unit if at least one intermediary unit (e.g., a third unit located between the first unit and the second unit) processes information received from the first unit and communicates the processed information to the second unit. In some aspects, a message may refer to a network packet (e.g., a data packet, and/or the like) that includes data. It will be appreciated that numerous other arrangements are possible.
[00121] As used herein, the term "server" may refer to or include one or more processors or computers, storage devices, or similar computer arrangements that are operated by or facilitate communication and processing for multiple parties in a network environment, such as the internet, although it will be appreciated that communication may be facilitated over one or more public or private network environments and that various other arrangements are possible. Further, multiple computers, e.g., servers or other computerized devices directly or indirectly communicating in the network environment may constitute a "system". Reference to "a server" or "a processor," as used herein, may indicate a previously recited server and/or processor that is recited as performing a previous step or function, a different server and/or processor, and/or a combination of servers and/or processors. For example, as used in the specification and the claims, a first server and/or a first processor that is recited as performing a first step or function may refer to the same or different server and/or a processor recited as performing a second step or function.
[00122] As used herein, the terms "computer" and "computing device" may refer to one or more electronic devices that are configured to directly or indirectly communicate with or over one or more networks. The computing device may be a mobile device. As an example, a mobile device may include a cellular phone (e.g., a smartphone or standard cellular phone), a portable computer, a wearable device (e.g., watches, glasses, lenses, clothing, and/or the like), a personal digital assistant (PDA), and/or other like devices. In other aspects, the computing device may be a desktop computer or other non-mobile computer. Furthermore, the term "computer" may refer to any computing device that includes the necessary components to receive, process, and output data and normally includes a display, a processor, a memory, an input device, and a network interface. An "application programming interface" (API) refers to computer code or other data sorted on a computer-readable medium that may be executed by a processor to facilitate the interaction between software components, such as a client-side front-end and/or server-side back-end for receiving data from the client. A "graphical user interface" or "GUI" refers to a generated display with which a user may interact, either directly or indirectly (e.g., through a keyboard, mouse, touchscreen etc.).
[00123] As used herein, the term "generate", when used in the context of a sensor "generating" an image, means to capture, obtain, or record a discrete image, a series of sequential discrete images, or a continuous video as with a camera, infrared sensor, or the like.
[00124] Aspects of the present disclosure are generally directed to elevator systems including traffic monitoring systems for altering the operation of the elevator systems in real time in response to traffic flow. By applying real-time adjustments to the operation of the elevator systems, efficiency of the elevator systems is improved.
[00125] Referring now to FIGS. 1-2, an elevator system 1000 according to some aspects of the present disclosure includes an elevator car 1100 which travels between a plurality of floors 1001a, 1001b of a building. While two floors, namely a first floor 1001a and a second floor 1001b, are shown in FIG. 1, it is to be understood that the building may include, and the car 1100 may travel between, any number of floors. Each floor 1001a, 1001b serviced by the elevator system 1000 includes corresponding outer doors 1002a, 1002b which open to allow passengers and goods into the car 1100 when the car 1100 stops at the corresponding floor 1001a, 1001b. The outer doors 1002a, 1002b close when the car 1100 is in motion or when the car 1100 is stopped at a floor corresponding to a different door. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the car 1100 is stopped on the second floor 1001b, and the corresponding outer door 1002b is open to allow passengers and goods to enter the car 1100 at the second floor 1001b. The outer door 1002a of the floor 1001a is closed to prohibit passengers and goods from attempting to enter the car 1100 which is not present on the first floor 1001a.
[00126] Movement of the car 1100 between the floors 1001a, 1001b is controlled by a drive controller 1200. The drive controller 1200 may be in communication with one or more user interfaces 1300a-1300c. The one or more user interfaces 1300a-1300c may be located inside the car 1100, outside the car 1100, or a combination thereof. For example, the aspect shown in FIG. 1 includes a first user interface 1300a inside the car 1100, a second user interface 1300b outside the car 1100 on the first floor 1001a, and a third user interface 1300c outside the car 1100 on the second floor 1001b. The first user interface 1300a may be wall mounted, as shown in FIG. 1, or may be a kiosk mounted remotely from the car 1100. Some aspects may lack the second and third user interfaces 1300b-1300c located inside the car 1100. Each of the one or more user interfaces 1300a-1300c is configured to receive at least one input from a user and transmit an instruction to the drive controller 1200 that causes the car 1100 to move.
[00127] Referring now to FIG.2, the drive controller 1200 is in communication with an elevator drive assembly 1400 which may include a drive motor 1410. In aspects, the elevator drive assembly 1400 may be a traction belt drive system including, for example, one or more tension members 1420 connecting the elevator car to a counterweight (not shown). One or more of the tension members 1420 may be frictionally engaged to one or more drive sheaves 1430 coupled to the drive motor 1410 such that actuation of the drive motor 1410 by the drive controller 1200 causes rotation of the one or more drive sheaves 1430, thereby moving the car 1100 along a vertical or horizontal travel path. The tension members 1420 may be routed around any number of idler sheaves 1440 to alter the direction of the tension force applied by the tension members 1420 on the elevator car 1100 and the counterweight.
[00128] In other aspects, the elevator drive assembly 1400 may be a hydraulic system in which the drive motor 1410 is coupled to a pump such that actuation of the drive motor 1410 by the drive controller 1200 causes the pump to circulate fluid to one or more hydraulic cylinders which extend and retract to move the car 1100 vertically and/or horizontally. [00129] In still other aspects, the drive motor 1410 may be one or more linear actuators which, when actuated by the drive controller 1200, cause the car 1100 to translate vertically and/or horizontally along one or more rails. It will be appreciated that aspects may be utilized with any suitable elevator system and that the elevator systems shown in FIGS. 1-2 are exemplary only.
[00130] In some aspects, the drive controller 1200 may be programmed with a plurality of operating modes for actuating the drive assembly 1400. The drive controller 1200 may be switched between each of the operating modes depending on the level of traffic expected in the elevator system 1000. For example, the drive controller 1200 may be programmed with a first operating mode for low-traffic operation. The first operating mode may be used, for example, during evening hours or on weekends. In the first operating mode, the drive controller 1200 may be configured to actuate the drive assembly 1400 at a reduced speed in order to conserve energy. The first operating mode may also turn off interior lights in the car 1100 when no people are detected in the car 1100. The drive controller 1200 may be further programmed with a second operating mode for high- traffic operation. The second operating mode may be used, for example, during daytime work hours. In the second operating mode, the drive controller 1200 may be configured to actuate the drive assembly 1400 at an increased speed at the expense of greater energy consumption. In particular, if the car 1100 is empty or occupied only by non-human objects, the drive assembly 1400 may move the car at speeds and/or accelerations uncomfortable for human passengers. Further, in the second operating mode, the drive controller 1200 may be configured to automatically return the car 1100 to an entrance floor after each instruction to move the elevator car 1100 is completed. Further, in the second operating mode, the drive controller 1200 may be configured to provide expedited travel to one or more of the most commonly accessed floors. Further, in the second operating mode, the drive controller 1200 may be configured to bypass less commonly accessed floors. The drive controller 1200 may be configured to automatically switch between the first and second operating modes at predetermined times or may dynamically switch between operating modes based on real-time elevator traffic data.
[00131] In some aspects, the user interfaces 1300a-1300c may be programmed or configured with a plurality of operating modes to receive at least one input from a user and transmit an instruction or command to the drive controller 1200. The user interfaces 1300a-1300c may be automatically switched between each of the operating modes depending on the level of traffic expected in the elevator system 1000. For example, the user interfaces 1300a-1300c may be programmed with a first operating mode for low-traffic to moderate-traffic operation. In the first operating mode, the user interfaces 1300a-1300c function with destination dispatch functionality. Under destination dispatch functionality, the user interfaces 1300b, 1300c outside the elevator car 1100 allow a user to select a final destination floor. The user interfaces 1300a inside the elevator car 1100 are turned off or their functionality is limited to prevent selection of destination floors within the elevator car 1100. In the first operating mode, the user interfaces 1300a-1300c may be programmed with special dispatch functions, such a VIP access and group reservations. VIP access may allow designated passengers to be transported directly to a selected floor without stopping at other floors to service other passengers. Group reservations may hold a specific elevator car 1100 in the elevator system 1000 at a specific location for a specific passenger or specific group of passengers.
[00132] The user interfaces 1300a-1300c may be further programmed or configured with a second operating mode for high-traffic operation. In the second operating mode, special dispatch functions, such as VIP access and group reservations, may be disabled. The second operating mode may be used, for example, during business opening, during business closing hours, and/or between opening and closing hours.
[00133] The user interfaces 1300a-1300c may be further programmed or configured with a third operating mode for extreme high-traffic operation. In the third operating mode, the user interfaces 1300b, 1300c outside the elevator car 1100 may allow a user to select only a travel direction, e.g. up to higher floors or down to lower floors, with the user interfaces 1300a inside the elevator car 1100 allowing the user to select a specific destination floor. The user interfaces 1300a-1300c may be configured to automatically switch between the first, second, and/or third operating modes at predetermined times or may dynamically switch between operating modes based on real-time elevator traffic data, as described hereinafter.
[00134] Some aspects of the elevator system 1000 may include a plurality of cars 1100 and a plurality of corresponding drive assemblies 1400, each drive assembly 1400 configured to move one of the cars 1100 along a vertical or horizontal travel path. All of the plurality of drive assemblies 1400 may be in communication with and may be actuated by the single drive controller 1200. Alternatively, the elevator system 1000 may include multiple drive controllers 1200, each in communication with and configured to actuate one or more of the drive assemblies 1400. In some aspects, more than one drive controller 1200 may be in communication with and configured to actuate a single drive assembly 1400.
[00135] Referring now to FIGS. 3A-3C, the elevator car 1100 generally includes a floor 1104, a ceiling 1106, and a plurality of walls 1108 extending vertically between the floor 1104 and the ceiling 1106. An inner door 1102 is provided in at least one of the walls 1108 and is configured to open to allow passengers and goods to enter and exit the car 1100 when the car 1100 stops at any of the floors 1001a, 1001b. A traffic monitoring system 2000 may be mounted to any of the floor 1104, ceiling 1106, or walls 1108. For example, the traffic monitoring system 2000 may be mounted to the ceiling 1106 as shown in FIG. 3 A, or the traffic monitoring system 2000 may be mounted to the wall 1108 above the inner door 1102 as shown in FIG. 3B. In other aspects, as shown in FIG. 3C, the traffic monitoring system 2000 may be mounted to the door jamb of the elevator car 1100 outside the inner door 1102 (not shown) such that the traffic monitoring system 2000 is only exposed when the inner door 1102 is opened. FIG. 3C shows the outer door 1002 closed with the inner door 1102 open to illustrate this placement of the traffic monitoring system 2000. The traffic monitoring system 2000 will be described in greater detail hereinafter with reference to FIGS. 6-10B.
[00136] Referring now to FIG. 4, the elevator systems, apparatuses, and/or methods described herein may be implemented in an environment 400. The environment 400 may include a client device 402, a traffic monitoring device 404, a drive system 406, a user input device 408, an alarm system 410, and a network 412.
[00137] The client device 402 may include one or more devices capable of receiving information from and/or communicating information to the traffic monitoring device 404 and/or the drive system 406. For example, the client device 402 may include one or more computing devices such as a computer, a server, a mobile device, or any combination thereof. The client device 402 may be associated with an entity that operates and/or maintains the elevator system, such as an administrator. The administrator may include, for example, any user of the client device 402 such as an owner, proprietor, manager, designer, etc. of the elevator system 1000, or any combination thereof. The administrator may be a single entity or more than one entity.
[00138] The traffic monitoring device 404 may include one or more devices capable of receiving information from and/or communicating information to the client device 402, the drive system 406, and/or the user input device 408. For example, the traffic monitoring device 404 may include one or more computing devices such a computer, a mobile device, or the like. Further, the traffic monitoring device 404 may include or be in communication with one or more sensors such as an imaging sensor, a position sensor, and or the like. It will be appreciated that the traffic monitoring device 404 may also be a subsystem of an existing system such as, but not limited to, one or more software applications executing on one or more processors. In some aspects, the traffic monitoring device 404 may correspond to, be included in, or include the traffic monitoring system 2000, as shown and described with reference to FIGS. 3A-3C, 6, and 16.
[00139] The drive system 406 may include one or more devices capable of receiving information from and/or communicating information to the traffic monitoring device 404 and/or user input device 408. For example, the drive system 406 may include one or more computing devices such as a computer or the like. In some aspects, the drive system 406 may correspond to, be included in, or include one or more drive controllers 1200 and one or more drive assemblies 1400, as shown and described with reference to FIGS. 1-2.
[00140] The user input device 408 may include one or more devices capable of receiving information from and/or communicating information to the traffic monitoring device 404 and/or user input device 408. For example, the user input device 408 may include one or more button panels or switch panels. Alternatively or additionally, the user input device 408 may include one or more computing devices having an electronic visual display capable of displaying a graphical user interface (GUI), such as one or more monitors, touchscreens, or the like. Further, the user input device 408 may include or be in communication with one or more input devices capable of receiving input such as a touch screen display, a keyboard, a keypad, a mouse, a button, a switch, a microphone, a short range scanner (e.g. an RFID scanner), and/or the like. In some aspects, the user input device 408 may correspond to, be included in, or include the user interfaces 1300a-1300c, as shown and described with reference to FIGS. 1, and 3A-3C.
[00141] The alarm system 410 may include one or more devices capable of receiving information from and/or communicating information to the traffic monitoring device 404 and/or user input device 408. For example, the user input device 408 may include one or more button panels or switch panels. Further, the alarm system 410 may include or be in communication with one or more security devices such as a bell, a horn, a closed circuit television system, an automatic security dispatch system, and/or the like. [00142] The network 412 may include one or more wired and/or wireless networks. For example, the network 412 may include a cellular network (e.g., a long-term evolution (LTE) network, a third generation (3G) network, a fourth generation (4G) network, a code division multiple access (CDMA) network, and/or the like), a public land mobile network (PLMN), a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a metropolitan area network (MAN), a telephone network (e.g., a public switched telephone network (PSTN)), a private network, an ad hoc network, a fiber optic based network, a cloud computing network, and/or any combination of these or other types of networks.
[00143] FIG. 5 shows a diagram of example components of a device 500. In some aspects, the device 500 may correspond to one or more devices of the client device 402, one or more devices of the traffic monitoring device 404, one or more devices of the drive system 406, one or more devices of the user input device 408, and/or one or more devices of the alarm system 410. In some aspects, the client device 402, the traffic monitoring device 404, the drive system 406, the user input device 408, and the alarm system 410 may each include at least one device 500 and/or at least one component of the device 500. As shown in FIG. 5, the device 500 may include a bus 502, a processor 504, memory 506, a storage component 508, an input component 510, an output component 512, and a communication interface 514.
[00144] The bus 502 may include a component that permits communication among the components of the device 500. In some aspects, the processor 504 may be implemented in hardware, firmware, or a combination of hardware and software. For example, the processor 504 may include a processor (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an accelerated processing unit (APU), and/or the like), a microprocessor, a digital signal processor (DSP), and/or any processing component (e.g., a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), and/or the like), and/or the like, which can be programmed to perform a function. The memory 506 may include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), and/or another type of dynamic or static storage device (e.g., flash memory, magnetic memory, optical memory, and/or the like) that stores information and/or instructions for use by the processor 504.
[00145] The storage component 508 may store information and/or software related to the operation and use of the device 500. For example, the storage component 508 may include a hard disk (e.g., a magnetic disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optic disk, a solid state disk, and/or the like), a compact disc (CD), a digital versatile disc (DVD), a floppy disk, a cartridge, a magnetic tape, and/or another type of computer-readable medium, along with a corresponding drive.
[00146] The input component 510 may include a component that permits the device 500 to receive information, such as via user input (e.g., a touch screen display, a keyboard, a keypad, a mouse, a button, a switch, a microphone, and/or the like). Additionally, or alternatively, the input component 510 may include a sensor for sensing information (e.g., a global positioning system (GPS) component, an accelerometer, a gyroscope, an actuator, and/or the like). The output component 512 may include a component that provides output information from the device 500 (e.g., a display, a speaker, one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs), and/or the like). The input component 510 and/or the output component 512 may correspond to, be included in, or include the elevator display device 506, as described above.
[00147] The communication interface 514 may include a transceiver-like component (e.g., a transceiver, a receiver and transmitter that are separate, and/or the like) that enables the device 500 to communicate with other devices, such as via a wired connection, a wireless connection, or a combination of wired and wireless connections. The communication interface 514 may permit the device 500 to receive information from another device and/or provide information to another device. For example, the communication interface 514 may include an Ethernet interface, an optical interface, a coaxial interface, an infrared interface, a radio frequency (RF) interface, a universal serial bus (USB) interface, a Wi-Fi® interface, a cellular network interface, and/or the like.
[00148] The device 500 may perform one or more processes described herein. The device 500 may perform these processes based on the processor 504 executing software instructions stored by a computer-readable medium, such as the memory 506 and/or the storage component 508. A computer-readable medium (e.g., a non-transitory computer-readable medium) is defined herein as a non-transitory memory device. A memory device includes memory space located inside of a single physical storage device or memory space spread across multiple physical storage devices.
[00149] Software instructions may be read into the memory 506 and/or the storage component 508 from another computer-readable medium or from another device via the communication interface 514. When executed, the software instructions stored in the memory 506 and/or the storage component 508 may cause the processor 504 to perform one or more processes described herein. Additionally, or alternatively, hardwired circuitry may be used in place of or in combination with the software instructions to perform one or more processes described herein. Thus, aspects described herein are not limited to any specific combination of hardware circuitry and software.
[00150] The number and arrangement of the components shown in FIG. 5 are provided as an example. In some aspects, the device 500 may include additional components, fewer components, different components, or differently arranged components than those shown in FIG. 5. Additionally, or alternatively, a set of components (e.g., one or more components) of the device 500 may perform one or more functions described as being performed by another set of components of the device 500.
[00151] FIG. 6 is a schematic of the traffic monitoring system 2000 according to an aspect of the present disclosure. As noted above, the traffic monitoring system 2000 may correspond to, be included in, or include the traffic monitoring device 404 of the environment of FIG. 4. The traffic monitoring system 2000 includes at least one processor 210 in communication with one or more sensors configured to record image and position data of the elevator car 1100. The traffic monitoring system 2000 includes at least one object detection sensor 220 in communication with the at least one processor 210. The at least one object detection sensor may include at least one of a camera, an infrared sensor, a depth sensor, the like, and/or combinations thereof. In some aspects, the traffic monitoring system 2000 further includes at least one location sensor 230 in communication with the at least one processor 210. The at least one location sensor may include at least one of a barometer, an accelerometer, a gyroscope, an altimeter, and a GPS sensor.
[00152] The traffic monitoring system 2000 may further include a transceiver 240 in communication with the at least one processor 210 and configured to facilitate communication between the traffic monitoring system 2000 and other components of the elevator system 1000, such as the drive controller 1200, the one or more user interfaces 1300a-1300c, and/or the alarm system 410. The transceiver 240 may be further configured to facilitate communication between the traffic monitoring system 2000 and other devices, such as the client device 402.
[00153] The traffic monitoring system 2000 may further include at least one non-transitory computer-readable medium 250 including one or more instructions executable by the at least one processor 210. The one or more instructions, when executed by the at least one processor 210, may cause the at least one processor 210 to perform or at least partially perform one or more of the methods shown and described hereinafter with reference to FIGS. 11-14. [00154] In some aspects, the traffic monitoring system 2000 may further include a storage medium 260 for storing data obtained and/or generated by the at least one processor 210, the at least one object detection sensor 220, and the location sensor 230. In some aspects, the traffic monitoring system 2000 may further include a power source 270, such as a battery, for supplying power to the components of the traffic monitoring system 2000.
[00155] In some aspects, the components of the traffic monitoring system 2000, including the at least one processor 210, the at least one object detection sensor 220, the at least one location sensor 230, the transceiver 240, the at least one computer-readable medium 250, the storage medium 260, and the power source 270, may be at least partially enclosed within a housing 280. The housing 280 may be configured to be mounted inside the elevator car 1100, such as shown in FIGS. 3A-3B, or outside the elevator car 1100, such as shown in FIG. 3C. In some aspects, the traffic monitoring system 2000 may be a self-contained unit mountable in any elevator car 1100 regardless of the configuration of the elevator system 1000. As such, the traffic monitoring system 2000 may be suitable for retrofit applications and temporary installations. In other aspects, the traffic monitoring system 2000 may be integrated with other components of the elevator system 2000 such as the drive controller 1200 and/or the one or more user interfaces 1300a-1300c.
[00156] In some aspects, the housing 280 may enclose only certain components of the traffic monitoring system 2000, while other components are remotely mounted. For example, in the aspect shown in FIG. 16, which will be described in greater detail hereinafter, the at least one object detection sensor 220 is remotely mounted relative to the remainder of the traffic monitoring system 2000.
[00157] Referring now to FIG. 7, the elevator car 1100 may be occupied by one or more objects 300a-300c detectable by the at least one object detection sensor 220 of the traffic monitoring system 2000 (not shown). The objects may include people 300a-300b, non-human objects 300c, and/or animals (not shown). During operation of the elevator system 1000, each of the objects 300a-300c may enter and exit the elevator car 1100 at any floor lOOla-lOOlb. The traffic monitoring system 2000 may be configured to record the presence of each of the objects 300a-300c in the car 1100, record the time and/or floor lOOla-lOOlb at which each of the objects 300a-300c enters the car 1100, and record the time and/or floor lOOla-lOOlb at which each of the objects 300a-300c exits the car 1100. [00158] Referring now to FIGS. 8-9, the object detection sensor 220 of the traffic monitoring system 2000 may be configured to generate images 800, 900 of the objects 300a-300c occupying the car 1100. As may be appreciated from FIGS. 3A-3B, the traffic monitoring system 2000 may be mounted in an upper portion of the car 1100, to the ceiling 1106 (as shown in FIG. 3A), or to the wall 1108 above the inner door 1102 (as shown in FIG. 3B). In such mounting locations, the object detection sensor 220 of the traffic monitoring system 2000 may be arranged to project generally downward toward the floor 1104 of the car 1100, such that images 800, 900 are generated substantially in plan view as shown in FIGS. 8-9. In other aspects, such as that of FIG. 3C, the object detection sensor 220 of the traffic monitoring system 2000 may project at an angle into the interior of the car 1100 due to the mounting location of the traffic monitoring system 2000.
[00159] The image 800 of FIG. 8 is a photographic image generated by an aspect of the traffic monitoring system 2000 in which the object detection sensor 220 includes a camera. The image 800 therefore appears substantially identical to a view of the elevator car 1100 as would be perceived by a human eye. Using an image recognition algorithm, the at least one processor 210 of the traffic monitoring system 2000 may identify elements in the image 800 as the objects-300a-300c occupying the car 1100. The at least one processor 210 may then plot a signature 310a-310c corresponding to each of the objects 300a-300c on a map 3000 as shown in FIGS. 10A-10B.
[00160] The image 900 of FIG. 9 is a thermal image generated by an aspect of the traffic monitoring system 2000 in which the object detection sensor 220 includes an infrared sensor. The image 900 depicts each of the objects 300a-300c and the components of the car 1100 based on the infrared or thermal radiation emitted therefrom. Using a heat signature recognition algorithm, the at least one processor 210 of the traffic monitoring system 2000 may identify elements in the image 900 as the objects 300a-300c occupying the car 1100. The at least one processor 210 may then plot a signature 310a-310c corresponding to each of the objects 300a-300c on a map 3000 as shown in FIG. 10A-10B.
[00161] In other aspects of the traffic monitoring system 2000, not shown, the object detection sensor 220 may include a depth sensor which generates an image of the objects 300a-300c occupying the elevator car 1100 based on the proximity of the objects 300a-300c to the object detection sensor 220. The at least one processor 210 may use an algorithm to generate the map 3000 of FIG. 10A-10B substantially as described above by identifying elements in the image as the objects-300a-300c occupying the car 1100 and plotting the signatures 310a-310c of each of the objects 300a-300c on the map 3000.
[00162] Some aspects of the traffic monitoring system 2000 may include a plurality of object detection sensors 220 of the same or different types to verify the detection of the objects 300a- 300c in the elevator car 1100. For example, some aspects of the traffic monitoring system 2000 may include a camera as a first object detection sensor 220 and an infrared sensor as a second object detection sensor 220. The camera and the infrared sensor may contemporaneously generate, respectively, the photographic image 800 of FIG. 8 and the thermal image 900 of FIG. 9. The at least one processor 210 may utilize both the photographic image 800 and the thermal image 900 to generate the map 3000 of FIG. 10A-10B, thereby increasing the accuracy of the map 3000. That is, each element identified in the photograph image 800 may be verified as an object 300a- 300c in the elevator car 1100 by identification of the same element in the thermal image 900, or vice versa. Conversely, if an element is identified in only one of the photographic image 800 and the thermal image 900, the at least one processor 210 may execute a resolution algorithm to determine whether the identified element is actually an object 300a-300c in the elevator car 1100. In this manner, the accuracy of the map 3000 and subsequent analysis based thereon may be improved.
[00163] FIG. 11 is a flowchart of an aspect of a method 6000 for controlling an elevator system, such as the elevator system 1000 of FIGS. 1A and IB, operating in the environment of FIG. 2. In some aspects, one or more of the steps of the method 6000 may be performed, either completely or partially, by the traffic monitoring system 2000. Generally, the method 6000 includes steps for receiving a command to move and/or stop the elevator car 1100, generating the map 3000 of objects occupying the car 1100, and causing a change in operation of the elevator system 1000 based at least partially on the map 3000. The method 6000 will now be described more particularly with reference to steps 602, 604, and 606 as shown in FIG. 11.
[00164] At step 602, the method 6000 includes receiving, from the at least one user input device 408, a command to move the elevator car 1100 to a predetermined location and/or to stop the elevator car 1100 at a predetermined location. For example, a user may enter a command into the user interface 1300a instructing the drive controller 1200 to move the elevator car 1100 to one or more of the floors lOOla-lOOlb. The command may be entered in the form of pressing a button, scanning an identification tag, giving a voice command, or the like. [00165] As further shown in FIG. 11, at step 604, the method 6000 includes generating a map of objects in the elevator car 1100. The object detection sensor 220 of the traffic monitoring system 2000 may generate the map 3000 substantially as described above with reference to FIGS. 7-10B. For example, if the elevator car 1100 is occupied as shown in FIG. 7, the object detection sensor 220 may generate the map 3000 as shown in FIGS. 10A-10B by generating an image of the elevator car 1100 and identifying elements in the image as the objects 300a-300c present in the car 1100.
[00166] As further shown in FIG. 11, at step 606, the method 6000 includes causing a change in operation of the elevator system 1000 based at least partially on the map 3000. In some aspects, causing a change in operation of the elevator system 1000 may include overriding the command received from the user at step 602. In some aspects, causing a change in operation of the elevator system 1000 may include changing an operating mode of the drive controller 1200. In some aspects, causing a change in operation of the elevator system 1000 may include automatically changing the operating mode of the user interface devices 1300. In some aspects, causing a change in operation of the elevator system 1000 may include reassigning a command received from the user to a different elevator drive controller 1200 or drive assembly 1400. To determine the type of change in operation of the elevator system 1000, the at least one processor 210 of the traffic monitoring system 2000 analyzes the map 3000 to determine a state or parameter of the elevator car 1100. For example, the at least one processor 210 may determine, based on the map 3000, a number of objects in the car 1100, a number of people in the car 1100, an available capacity of the car 1100, and/or traffic data of the car 1100.
[00167] FIGS. 12-14 are flowcharts of methods for controlling the elevator system 1000, based on the general framework of the method 6000 of FIG. 11. FIG. 12 shows an aspect of a method 7000 generally including steps for overriding a user command based on available capacity of the elevator car 1100. FIG. 13 shows an aspect of a method 8000 generally including steps for overriding a user command based on an insufficient security input. FIG. 14 shows an aspect of a method 9000 generally including steps for switching an operating mode of the drive controller 1200 based on traffic data. In some aspects, one or more of the steps of the methods 7000, 8000, 9000 may be performed, either completely or partially, by the traffic monitoring system 2000. It is to be understood that any of the method steps and explanations thereof discussed herein with reference to one of the methods 6000, 7000, 8000, 9000 may be applicable to any of the methods 6000, 7000, 8000, 9000 unless expressly stated to the contrary.
[00168] Referring now to FIG. 12, at step 702, the method 7000 includes generating, with the at least one object detection sensor 220, the map 3000 of objects in the elevator car 1100. Generating the map 3000 may be performed substantially as described above with reference to step 604 of the method 6000 and with reference to FIGS. 7-10.
[00169] As further shown in FIG. 12, at step 704, the method 7000 includes determining an available capacity of the elevator car 1100 based on the map 3000 generated by the at least one object detection sensor 220 of the traffic monitoring system 2000. The available capacity may be based on number of passengers, floor area, weight, or another physical parameter of the elevator car 1100. To determine the available capacity, the at least one processor 210 of the traffic monitoring system 2000 may determine a parameter of the objects in the car 1100 with a maximum value corresponding to that parameter. For example, the maximum value may include a maximum occupancy of the car 1100, a floor area capacity of the car 1100, or a weight capacity of the car 1100. The maximum value may be predefined or may be dynamic based on the operation of the elevator system 1000.
[00170] If the available capacity is based on occupancy, the at least one processor 210 of the traffic monitoring system 2000 may identify the number of signatures 310a-310c on the map 3000 that correspond to people. To identify which of the signatures 310a-310c correspond to people, the at least one processor 210 may utilize a recognition algorithm. In aspects in which the object detection sensor 220 includes a camera, the at least one processor 210 may use an image recognition algorithm to recognize shapes or features in the image 800 indicating that an object is a person, and such objects may be indicated as people on the map 3000. In aspects in which the object detection sensor 220 includes an infrared sensor, the at least one processor 210 may use a heat signature recognition algorithm to recognize thermal radiation in the image 900 indicating that an object is a person, and such objects may be indicated as people on the map 3000.
[00171] In the map 3000 shown in FIGS. 10A-10B, for example, the signatures 310a and 310b correspond to the objects 300a and 300b, which are people. The at least one processor 210 may thus determine that there are two (2) people in the car 1100. The at least one processor 210 may then compare the number of people in the car 1100 to the maximum occupancy to determine the available capacity. For example, if the maximum occupancy is three (3) persons, the at least one processor 210 may determine that the available capacity is one (1) person by subtracting the number of people in the car 1100 from the maximum occupancy.
[00172] Alternatively, if the available capacity is based on floor area, the at least one processor 210 of the traffic monitoring system 2000 may determine an area of each of the signatures 310a-310c on the map 3000. The areas of the signatures 310a-310c may be determined, for example, by identifying the boundaries of the signatures 310a-310c with the remaining environment of the map 3000 and determining the surface area of the map 3000 contained within those boundaries. The at least one processor 210 may then compare the areas of the signatures 310a-310c to the floor area capacity of the car, which may be, for example, a percentage of the total surface area of the floor 1104 of the car 1100. The at least one processor 210 may then determine the available capacity by subtracting the areas of the signatures 310a-310b from the floor area capacity of the car 1100.
[00173] Alternatively, if the available capacity is based on weight, the at least one processor 210 of the traffic monitoring system 2000 may determine an estimated weight of each of the objects 300a-300c represented by the signatures 310a-310c on the map 3000. The estimated weights of the objects may be based on, for example, the size of the corresponding signatures 310a-310c, the shape of the corresponding signatures 310a-310c, a calculated or estimated volume of the corresponding signatures 310a-310c, and/or thermal radiation of the corresponding signatures 310a-310c. The at least one processor 210 may then compare the estimated weights of the objects 300a-300c to the maximum weight capacity of the car 1100. The at least one processor 210 may then determine the available capacity by subtracting the estimated weights of the objects 300a-300b from the maximum weight capacity of the car 1100.
[00174] As further shown in FIG. 12, at step 706, the method 7000 includes receiving, from the user input device 608, a command instructing the drive controller 1200 to stop the elevator car 1100 at a predetermined location. Receiving the command may be substantially the same as discussed above in step 602 of the method 6000. For example, a user may enter a command into the user interface 1300c on the second floor 1001b, thereby instructing the drive controller 1200 to move the elevator car 1100 to the second floor 1001b so that the user may enter the car 1100. Similarly, the user may enter a command into any of the user interfaces 1300a-1300c instructing the car 1100 to stop at any floor or location of the elevator system 1000. [00175] As further shown in FIG. 12, at step 708, the method 7000 includes, in response to determining that the available capacity of the elevator car 1100 is below a threshold, overriding the command. The at least one processor 210 may compare the available capacity determined at step 704 with a threshold value to determine whether to permit additional objects in the car. If the available capacity is less than the threshold value, the at least one processor 210 may override the command entered by the user at step 706. For example, if the available capacity is based on weight, the threshold may be set to the weight of an average person. If the available capacity as determined at step 704 is less than the threshold, the at least one processor 210 may determine that another person cannot safely enter the elevator car 1100. The at least one processor may then override any command entered by the user which would allow another person to enter the car 1100. For example, if the command entered by the user at step 706 instructed the drive controller 1200 to stop the car at the second floor 1001b to allow the user to enter the car 1100, the at least one processor may override, bypass, or cancel that command so to not exceed the weight capacity of the car 1100. The at least one processor 210 may instead cause the drive controller 1200 to move the car 1100 to another floor to allow some passengers to get off the car 1100.
[00176] Referring now to FIG. 13, at step 802, the method 8000 includes generating, with the at least one object detection sensor 220, the map 3000 of objects in the elevator car 1100. Generating the map 3000 may be performed substantially as described above with reference to step 604 of the method 6000, with reference to step 702 of the method 7000, and with reference to FIGS. 7-10.
[00177] As further shown in FIG. 13, at step 804, the method 8000 includes determining a number of people in the elevator car 1100 based on the map 3000 generated by the at least one object detection sensor 220. Determining a number of people in the elevator car may be performed substantially as described with reference to step 704 of the method 7000.
[00178] As further shown in FIG. 13, at step 804, the method 8000 includes determining a number of expected security inputs based on the number of people in the elevator car 1100. The at least one processor 210 of the traffic monitoring system 2000 may determine the expected number of security inputs, which in some aspects may be equal to the number of people in the car 1100. For example, the second floor 1001b of the elevator system 1000 may be a secured floor, such that each person must present a proper security clearance to travel to the second floor 1001b. Alternatively, a party of multiple people may be permitted to access the second floor 1001b so long as one person in the party presents a proper security clearance.
[00179] As further shown in FIG. 13, at step 806, the method 8000 includes receiving, from the user input device 408, a command instructing the drive controller 1200 to move the elevator car 1100 to a predetermined location. Receiving the command may be substantially the same as discussed above in step 602 of the method 6000. For example, a user may enter the command into the user interface 1300a inside the car 1100 instructing the drive controller 1200 to move the elevator car 1100 to the second floor 1001b so that the user may exit the car 1100 at the second floor 1001b. Similarly, the user may enter a command into any of the user interfaces 1300a-1300c instructing the car 1100 to move to or stop at any floor or location of the elevator system 1000.
[00180] As further shown in FIG. 13, at step 808, the method 8000 includes receiving, from the user input device 408, at least one security input. Each of the security inputs may be an action taken by a user to verify one or more credentials. For example, each security input may include entering a personal identification number (PIN) or password into one of the user interfaces 1300a-1300c; scanning a tag or badge on a reader (e.g., an RFID reader) at one of the user interfaces 1300a-1300c; scanning the user's fingerprint, handprint, retina, face, or other body feature on a reader at one of the user interfaces 1300a-1300c; or combinations thereof. Each security input may be necessary to enter the elevator car 1100, to enter a particular floor lOOla-lOOlb, or to enter a particular command into the user input device 408.
[00181] As further shown in FIG. 13, at step 810, the method 8000 includes, in response to determining that the number of security inputs received from the user input device 408 is less than the number of expected security inputs, overriding the command. For example, if the number of expected security inputs is two (2), but only one (1) security input is received, the at least one processor 210 of the traffic monitoring system 2000 may override the command entered at step 806. The at least one processor 210 may thus prevent the drive controller 1200 from moving the elevator car 1100 to or stopping the car 1100 on a secured floor if sufficient security clearances are not presented.
[00182] As further shown in FIG. 13, at step 812, some aspects of the method 8000 further include, in response to determining that the number of security inputs received from the user input device 408 is less than the number of expected security inputs, activating the alarm system 410. When activated, the alarm system 410 may sound a horn or bell, automatically contact a security officer, and/or at least partially take the elevator car 1100 out of service.
[00183] In other aspects, the method 8000 may further include, prior to step 810, in response to determining that the number of security inputs received from the user input device 408 is less than the number of expected security inputs, issuing an audio or video message requesting the expected number of security inputs be entered. If, after a predetermined amount of time, the expected number of security inputs are still not received, the method 8000 may proceed to step 810 and/or step 812.
[00184] Referring now to FIG. 14, at step 902, the method 9000 includes receiving, from the user input device 408, a plurality of commands, each instructing the drive controller 1200 to move the elevator car 1100 to, or to stop the elevator car 1100 at, a predetermined location. Receiving each of the commands may be substantially the same as discussed above at step 602 of the method 6000 and at step 802 of the method 8000. However, at step 902, a plurality of commands is received such that the drive controller 1200 is instructed to move the elevator car 1100 a plurality of times.
[00185] As further shown in FIG. 14, at step 904, the method 9000 includes determining, with the at least one elevator position sensor 230 of the traffic monitoring system 2000, location data of the elevator car 1100. As the car 1100 is moved by the drive controller 1200 according to the plurality commands received at step 902, the elevator position sensor 230 periodically records the time and the location of the car 1100 to generate a log of the travel of the car 1100.
[00186] As further shown in FIG. 14, at step 906, the method 9000 includes generating, with the at least one object detection sensor 220 of the traffic monitoring system 2000, a map 3000 of objects in the elevator car 1100. Generating the map 3000 may be performed substantially as described above with reference to step 604 of the method 6000, with reference to step 702 of the method 7000, with reference to step 802 of the method 8000, and with reference to FIGS. 7-10.
[00187] As further shown in FIG. 14, at step 908, the method 9000 includes generating traffic flow data of the elevator car 1100 based on the location data determined by the at least one elevator position sensor 230 and the map 3000 of objects generated by the at least one object detection sensor 220. Generating the traffic flow data may include, in some aspects, recording (i) the times at which one or more objects enter and exit the elevator car 1100; and/or (ii) the locations at which one or more objects enter and exit the elevator car 1100. The times at which one or more objects enter and exit the car 1100 may be determined based on changes to the map 3000 as the drive controller 1200 executes the commands received at step 902. For example, the object detection sensor 220 may update the map 3000, or generate a new map 3000, before and/or after the execution of each command to determine if objects have entered or exited the car 1100.
[00188] In some aspects, generating the traffic flow data at step 908 may include updating the map 3000 with virtual lines or vectors indicating the movement of the signatures 310a-310c, and their corresponding objects 300a-300c, into and out of the elevator car 1100. In this manner, the specific movement of individual objects 300a-300c may be determined and recorded. In one aspect, shown in FIG. 10B, a first vector VI is added to the map 3000 immediately adjacent to and parallel to the location of the inner door 1102. A second vector V2 is added to the map 3000 parallel to the first vector VI and at a distance further inside the elevator car 1100 than the first vector VI. If the signature 310a, crosses the first vector VI before crossing the second vector V2, then the signature 310a is recorded as entering the elevator car 1100. If the signature 310a crosses the second vector V2 before crossing the first vector VI, then the signature 310a is recorded as exiting the elevator car 1100.
[00189] Similarly, the elevator location sensor 230 may determine the location of the car 1100 before and/or after the execution of each command to determine the location of the car 1100. The traffic flow data may be analyzed to determine trends in the use of the elevator system 2000 over time, such as traffic experienced at each floor, traffic based on time of day, traffic based on day of the week, occupancy of the car 1100, etc.
[00190] As further shown in FIG. 14, at step 910, the method 9000 includes causing, based on the traffic flow data, the drive controller 1200 to switch from executing a first of the plurality of operating modes to executing a second of the plurality of operating modes. As discussed above with reference to FIGS. 1-2, the drive controller 1200 may be programmed with a plurality of operating modes for controlling the elevator car 1100. The drive controller 1200 may be configured to default to one of the operating modes based on a time of day, day of the week, or the like. If the at least one processor 210 of the traffic monitoring system 2000 determines, based on the traffic flow data generated at step 908, that one of the operating modes other than the default operating mode would more efficiently handle the traffic experienced by the elevator system 1000, the at least one processor 210 may automatically switch the operating mode being executed by the drive controller 1200 to the operating mode determined to be more efficient. [00191] As noted above, some aspects of the elevator system 1000 may include a plurality of elevator cars 1100. In such aspects, the method 9000 may further include, at step 912, taking one or more of the plurality of elevator cars 1100 out of service. The at least one processor 210 of the traffic monitoring system 2000 may determine, based on the traffic flow data generated at step 908, that less than all of the plurality of cars 1100 are needed to adequately handle the traffic being experienced by the elevator system 1000. The at least one processor 210 may automatically instruct the drive controller 1200 to take one or more of the cars 1100 out of service to conserve energy. In some aspects, the at least one processor 210 may also automatically instruct the drive controller to return one or more of the cars 1100 to service if the at least one processor 210 determines, based on the traffic flow data generated at step 908, that additional cars 1100 are necessary to handle the traffic being experienced by the elevator system 1000.
[00192] In some aspects, the at least one processer 210 may store the traffic flow data generated at step 908 on the storage medium 260. In other aspects, the at least one processor 210, via the transceiver 240, may transmit the traffic flow data generated at step 908 to the client device 402 for external storage, analysis, and/or manipulation. In still other aspects, the at least one processor 210, via the transceiver 240, may transmit traffic flow data generated at step 908 to a cloud computer network for external storage, analysis, and/or manipulation.
[00193] Referring now to FIG. 15, an implementation 1500 may be associated with and/or utilized to execute any of the methods 6000, 7000, 8000, 9000, including combinations thereof, described above with reference to FIGS. 11-14. The implementation 1500 may include a client device 1502, a traffic monitoring system 1504, an elevator drive system, 1506, a user input device network 1508, and an alarm system 1510. The client device 1502 may be, or may perform the same or similar functions as, the client device 402 described above. The traffic monitoring device system 1504 may be, or may perform the same or similar functions as, the traffic monitoring system 404 as described above. The elevator drive system 1506 may be, or may perform the same or similar functions as, the drive system 406 described above. The user input device network 1508 may include one or more input devices 1508a-1508n, each of which may include, or may perform the same or similar functions as, the user input device 408 as described above. The alarm system 1510 may be, or may perform the same or similar functions as, the alarm system 410 described above. [00194] The client device 1502 may be connected via a wired or wireless connection with the traffic monitoring system 1504, the elevator drive system 1506, and the alarm system 1510. The client device 1502 may communicate with the traffic monitoring system 1504 to receive and store data generated by the traffic monitoring system 1504. In this manner, an administrator utilizing the client device may view and analyze the data generated by the traffic monitoring system 1504 and implement changes to the elevator drive system 1506 based on the generated data. The client device 1502 may communicate with the alarm system 1510 to receive an alert if the alarm system is activated.
[00195] The traffic monitoring system 1504 may be connected via a wired or wireless connection with the client device 1502, the elevator drive system 1506, and the alarm system 1510. The traffic monitoring system 1504 may communicate with the drive system 1506 to adjust, override, or control operation of the elevator drive system 1506. The traffic monitoring system 1504 may communicate with the alarm system 1510 to activate the alarm system 1510 if the traffic monitoring system 1504 determines that an expected security input has not been received.
[00196] The elevator drive system 1506 may be connected via a wired or wireless connection with the client device 1502, the traffic monitoring system 1504, and the user input device network 1508. The elevator drive system 1506 may communicate with the input device network 1508 to receive commands from any of the one or more input devices 1508a-1508n for controlling operation of the elevator drive system 1506.
[00197] The user input device network 1508 may be connected via a wired or wireless connection with the traffic monitoring system 1504 and the alarm system 1510. The user input device network 1508 may communicate with the traffic monitoring system 1504 to transmit security inputs to the traffic monitoring system 1504 for satisfying security protocols. For example, each of the one or more input devices 1508a-1508n may include a scanner 1509a-1509n (e.g., an RFID reader) for detecting a scanned tag, badge, or the like and transmitting a security input to the traffic monitoring system 1504. The user input device network 1508 may communicate with the alarm system 1510 to activate the alarm system 1510 if an expected security input has not been received by the user input device network 1508.
[00198] Referring now to FIG. 16, in some aspects, the traffic monitoring device 2000 may include a plurality of object detection sensors 220 mounted at various locations throughout the elevator car 1100, remote from the other components of the traffic monitoring device 2000. Each of the plurality of object detection sensors 220 may generated an image of the interior space of the elevator car 1100 from a different viewpoint. The images generated by the plurality of object detection sensors 220 may be compared with one another via the at least one processor 210 using an algorithm to compile the images into the map 3000, thereby resolving inconsistencies between the images and improving the accuracy of the map 3000.
[00199] In some aspects, the traffic monitoring device 2000 may be configured to operate at all times the elevator system 1000 is in operation. In other aspects, such as that of FIG. 3C, the traffic monitoring device 2000 may be configured to operate only when the doors 1002, 1102 are opened in order to reduce power consumption. In still other aspects, the traffic monitoring device 2000 may be configured to operate only at certain floors of the elevator system 1000 to generate traffic flow data specific to those floors.
[00200] While several examples of an elevator system, a method for controlling an elevator system, and an implementation of the method are shown in the accompanying figures and described in detail hereinabove, other examples will be apparent to and readily made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. For example, it is to be understood that aspects of the various aspects described hereinabove may be combined with aspects of other aspects while still falling within the scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the foregoing description is intended to be illustrative rather than restrictive. The assembly of the present disclosure described hereinabove is defined by the appended claims, and all changes to the disclosed assembly that fall within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.
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