EP1535874A1 - Elevator control method and system with automatic deactivation of optional functions - Google Patents

Abstract

The method involves using a lift control with a number of functions whereby activation is followed automatically by deactivation of the optional functions and the optional function is no longer available after deactivation for controlling the lift unit in operation. Activation data is transferred through an interface of the lift control and activation of the optional function is caused when the activation data meets a first criterion. Independent claim describes lift control with several functions and with a device for automatically deactivating optional function.

Description

The invention relates to a method for operating an elevator system, the one Elevator control with a plurality of functions for controlling the elevator installation according to the preamble of claim 1 and an elevator control.

The elevator control of an elevator installation usually includes implementations of a Plurality of functions. As a rule, in the elevator control a Lift system implemented more functions than for the elevator control to control must actually be available during operation of the elevator system. Which of the implemented functions during the operation of the elevator installation for Taxes are actually available or which of the implemented functions should not be available for control during operation of the elevator installation, is usually determined by a configuration of the elevator control.

Any configuration can be configured by configuring an elevator control of an elevator installation which defines one or more characteristics that the Elevator control with regard to a control of the elevator installation during a Operation of the elevator system should have. This includes the definition of actions and reactions controllable by the elevator control and operation of the elevator Concern elevator installation.

The configuration allows for consideration of specific Operating parameters of the elevator system and sets the system behavior that the Elevator control during operation of the elevator system is to show, firmly. A Configuration takes place at least once before commissioning an elevator system instead of. If appropriate, it can also be repeated at a later date, for example, to change the system behavior of the elevator control. The latter can be relevant if the configuration of the elevator installation and / or the elevator control to be changed. This concerns, for example, the installation or removal of Components used in the operation of the elevator installation control the elevator control subject to or should be subject to, or the installation (implementation) or Uninstalling program modules that are suitable for controlling the elevator system are and which - when installed - a realization of control options of Represent elevator control. Thus, such a change of configuration in operation the elevator system is effective, is usually a reconfiguration of the Elevator control performed to the elevator control to the changed situation adapt. In this case, the configuration must at least take such measures include the necessary changes in the system behavior of the elevator control specify.

The system behavior of an installed and already configured elevator control system Lift system can be changed later in a certain frame, even when the implementation of functions in the elevator control remains unchanged. For this purpose, only a re-configuration of the elevator control be made in accordance with a revised specification of the elevator installation. On In this way, the elevator control can adapt to changing requirements of the System behavior can be adjusted, for example, after a modernization of Elevator system without any constructive changes to the elevator control itself are necessary.

EP 0 857 684 A1 discloses a method and apparatus for installing and operating an elevator control disclosed. The configuration of the elevator control a Elevator installation takes place after installation of the elevator installation with the help of a Memory card in a storage element all to operate the elevator installation contains necessary control data, i. in particular programs and / or data for controlling the elevator installation and for configuring the elevator control. The Memory card is inserted in the elevator control. Certain special functions and Options, such as a disabled, VIP, energy-saving mode or a fire protection system, are selectively activated by the memory card and thus provided for the control during operation of the elevator installation. Should after the start-up of the elevator installation other control options for the Operation of the elevator system must be provided, then the memory card by another memory card having a memory element that is used to activate the required control options contains appropriate control data, to be replaced. Every change requires a person to lift the elevator to install the new memory card in the elevator control. This is laborious when changes are made frequently or even routinely must, e.g. if certain control options are limited Period for controlling during operation of the plant should be available or when operating elevator controls based on a timed temporary contract or the maintenance of lift installations on the basis of a temporary service contract.

The present invention begins with the disadvantages mentioned. The invention is the Task, a method for operating an elevator system and a Elevator control to create such that a targeted change of Control options after commissioning the elevator system with a low Effort is possible.

This object is achieved by a method for operating an elevator installation with the features of claim 1 and an elevator control with the features of Claim 10.

The dependent claims each define embodiments of inventive method or the elevator control according to the invention.

In the following it is assumed that the elevator control a Implementation of a plurality of functions.

Below is a function of each measure or group of Measures understood that is executable by the elevator control to the Elevator system to control. The term "implementation of a function" is intended to mean the Devices (hardware) and / or program modules (software) that belong to one Realization of the function contribute.

The implemented functions may be of relevance to the operation of the Lift system can be divided into two groups: standard functions and optional Functions.

The standard function is an implemented function that works for every possible Operating mode of the elevator system should be available.

An optional function is an implemented function, not for each possible operating mode of the elevator system must be available. Depending on The interest situation of the operator of the elevator installation can be set in a configuration of the Elevator control should be considered whether such a function in the operation of Lift system should be available or not.

An implemented function is said to be activated when in operation Elevator system is available for tax.

An implemented function is called an activatable function if, during a configuration, a determination can be made as to whether or not the function is to be available for controlling during operation of the elevator installation.
Activation of a function is understood to be a measure which specifies that the function is available for controlling during operation of the elevator installation.

The invention assumes that at least one of the optional functions or also activates several optional functions when configuring the elevator control will or will be. Activation represents or is an optional feature optional functions first in an operation of the elevator system for controlling the Available.

According to the invention it is provided that the elevator control device for automatic deactivation of optional functions. Under deactivation An optional function is understood to be the function when configuring the Elevator control was activated after deactivation but no longer in operation Lift system to be available for control. According to the invention at least one of the initially activated optional functions is deactivated automatically and is thus available for in-service control only for a limited period of time. The device allows automatic deactivation of optional functions Accordingly, a control over the time in which an optional function in the operation of Elevator system is available and by a user of the elevator system in Claim can be made. Deactivation becomes a targeted change of control options after commissioning of the elevator system reached. These Change is not associated with any further expense for staff as it is automatic he follows.

Apart from the definition of which in the elevator control of an elevator system implemented functions in the operation of the elevator system for controlling available If necessary, further settings can be made during the configuration to be hit. For example, individual functions may be one or more Depend on parameters that determine the execution of each function. Such Parameters can be specified during configuration. For example, can a function "opening cabin and / or shaft doors" can be specified by determining how fast the doors should be opened or closed and / or how long doors should be open before an automatic closure of the Doors is started. Furthermore, it may be necessary to have multiple functions in Connection with each other in a control process must be effective to to control certain complex operations during the operation of the elevator installation, for example, such that multiple functions simultaneously or in a particular time sequence are executed sequentially. In the latter case, a Set of functions to be implemented such that several variants for the Interaction of several functions are possible. By configuring the Elevator control can now be determined which of the possible variants realized should be and should be available to control the operation of the elevator system. In In this case, when configuring the elevator control, it can be set: (i) which Functions in conjunction with each other in a control process to take effect and (ii) according to which rules the functions are used should. For example, in an elevator control, several types of control for the Handling of calls (car calls and / or floor calls) to be implemented under other types of control push button control, collective down control, Collective-selective control or group control. These types of controls differ mainly in terms of how the Elevator control responds to several incoming calls, for example with regard to the registration of incoming calls and / or the order of execution of several received calls. Which of these types of control in the operation of the elevator system is to be applied, is set in the configuration of the elevator control.

The invention makes it possible, for example, for a provider of elevator controls, Give a customer certain control options as a "temporary service" To make available, for example, in the context of a rental or lease agreement. So may have certain optional features when configuring the elevator control be activated, for example, optional features that improve the To serve driving comfort. The device for automatic deactivation of optional Functions can be set up so that deactivation occurs when a predetermined criterion is met, for example if a certain period of time has passed or if a particular event a predetermined number of times occurred. So the vendor can arrange with the customer over duration and Conditions of use of the optional features and already at one Configuration of the elevator system, the device for automatic deactivation set up according to the agreements. The provider can thereby the device for automatic disabling set up so that the optional features only so long are activated according to the agreements with the customer to control the Lift system must be available. Then follows - as pre-programmed - automatically deactivates the optional functions. The customer decides to use the optional features for a longer time want, so can timely activate the desired optional for another Period of use to be made. Does the customer not stick to the agreements For example, he does not pay the agreed fees for the use of the Service of the provider - then the provider has nothing to do: The Finally, use of the optional functions ends automatically at one point in time and under conditions that the provider has in connection with the activation of Functions has determined itself.

The invention enables, for example, a provider of services the field of maintenance of elevator equipment, with a customer agreements on maintenance of an elevator installation during a time-limited maintenance period to meet. In this case, the provider can, for example, in a configuration of Elevator control enable certain optional features that require detection and / or diagnosis of operating data and / or an analysis of error messages of the Enable elevator control. In this case, the provider can use the device for Disable the optional features so that the enabled optional Functions are deactivated at a time determined by the offerer, whereby the Deactivation automatically without further intervention of the provider. Does not happen re-activation, then the optional functions are not available after deactivation more available. This application is for the provider in particular then Interest, when the optional features deliver results that exceed a usual level - for example, a measure determined by law or norm. After deactivation, the optional features are no longer for maintenance purposes used. The automatic deactivation offers the provider a protection against one Abuse by other vendors who are unable to make a comparable To provide service. After deactivation stand for a collection and / or Diagnosis of operating data and / or an analysis of error messages only Standard functions that only produce results in provide a standard specific framework.

An embodiment of the elevator control according to the invention comprises a Interface via which activation information can be transmitted, and a processor for evaluation of the activation information. The activation information contains the essential information used to control activation and / or deactivation required by optional features. The activation information can For example, include a code or data and can, for example, manually can be entered (eg via a keyboard), transmitted by electronic means or up be stored on a disk and read from this disk.

The activation can be done under the control of the elevator control. After a Transmission of an activation information via the interface of the elevator control the activation information is sent from the elevator control processor to a given criterion - in the following evaluation criterion - evaluated. Depending on whether the activation information meets the evaluation criterion, can the processor accepts the activation information as valid or invalid deny. If there is a valid activation information, then depending if necessary, activation of one or more of a result of the evaluation optional functions. The evaluation can comprise several steps. The Activation information may include, for example, the information which optional Functions should be activated and / or when activating an optional function and / or when or by which criterion the deactivation of an optional function should be done. The activation information may further include security features that protect against possible abuse. For example, the Activation information containing data that uniquely the elevator control or the Identify lift system. In this way it can be ensured that a certain activation information only for an elevator control or a Lift system is valid and invalid by another lift controller is rejected. Furthermore, the activation information can be information which is only disclosed to persons responsible for a transmission of a Activation information about the interface should be authorized. This information can include an identification of the persons concerned. The activation information can For example, information contained in each individual transmission of a Activation information identified as such. This information - below For example, transmission identification may only be for a single Transmission or for a limited number of transmissions. Based on Submission identification can be sequential submissions of a Activation information can be distinguished from the processor. The processor can be a For example, accept activation information as valid only if the Delivery identification fulfills a criterion determined by the processor. The processor This criterion can be used after every transmission or after a finite number of times Change transmissions according to given rules. In this case, it will be the same Activation information only once or a finite number of times as validly accepted. In addition, the activation information or part of the Activation information to be encrypted.

Fig. 1

eine Aufzugsanlage, welche zwei Aufzüge mit je einer Aufzugssteuerung gemäss der Erfindung umfasst;

Fig. 2

die Aufzugssteuerung gemäss Fig. 1 im Detail;

Fig. 3

implementierte Standardfunktionen und optionale Funktionen und ein Beispiel für eine Kontrolle der Verfügbarkeit von optionalen Funktionen zum Steuern während eines Betriebs der Aufzugsanlage und

Fig. 4

ein Beispiel für eine Aktivierungsinformation.

In the following, embodiments of the invention will be explained with reference to the accompanying drawings. Show it:

Fig. 1

an elevator installation which comprises two elevators each with an elevator control according to the invention;

Fig. 2

the elevator control according to FIG. 1 in detail;

Fig. 3

implemented standard functions and optional functions and an example of a control of the availability of optional functions for controlling during operation of the elevator installation and

Fig. 4

an example of an activation information.

Fig. 1 shows an elevator system 1 with two elevators 1.1 and 1.2 in a building with two shafts 2.1 and 2.2 and six storeys 3.1 - 3.6. The elevators 1.1 and 1.2 each have a cabin 5.1 or 5.2. The shafts 2.1 and 2.2 are of the Levels 3.1 - 3.6 from each accessible via a landing door 4.

In the shaft 2.1 are the cabin 5.1 and a counterweight 6.1, which with the Cab 5.1 is connected via a support means 6.1, by means of a drive 10.1, which as a traction drive acting on the suspension element 6.1 is designed to be movable.

Accordingly, in the shaft 2.2, the cabin 5.2 and a counterweight 6.2, which is connected to the car 5.2 via a support means 6.2, by means of a drive 10.2, which is designed as a traction drive acting on the suspension element 6.2, movable. The elevators 1.1 and 1.2 are designed so that with the cabins 5.1 and 5.2 each of the floors 3.1 - 3.6 are operable.

To control the elevator installation are two elevator controls 20.1 and 20.2 intended. The elevator control 20.1 is used to control the elevator 1.1, the Elevator control 20.2 is used to control the elevator 1.2.

The elevator 1.1 comprises a control connection 36.1 which establishes a connection between the elevator control 20.1 and all components of the elevator 1.1 which are in the Operation are controlled, i.a. the drive 10.1, a door of the cabin 5.1 (not shown), the landing doors 4 on the shaft 2.1, input and display devices for cabin and / or floor calls (not shown), a device for Lighting of the cabin 5.1, a device for lighting the floors 3.1-3.6 (not shown), an apparatus for audible and / or visual reproduction of Information (not shown) and sensors for monitoring the components and the operation of the elevator 1.1 (not shown).

Accordingly, the elevator 1.2 comprises a control connection 36.1 having a Connection establishes between the elevator control 20.2 and all components of the Elevators 1.2, which are inspected during operation, i.a. the drive 10.2, a door of Cabin 5.2 (not shown), the floor doors 4 at the bay 2.2, input and Display devices for cabin and / or floor calls (not shown), a Device for lighting the cabin 5.2, a device for illuminating the Levels 3.1-3.6 (not shown), a device for acoustic and / or visual reproduction of information (not shown) and sensors for Monitoring the components and operation of the elevator 1.2 (not shown).

The elevators 1.1 and 1.2 are - each controlled by the elevator control 20.1 or the elevator control 20.2 - independently operable. The elevator system 1 However, as an optional function, it has a group control that, when activated - the operation of the elevators 1.1 and 1.2 can be coordinated with each other in order to Call requirements for the various floors 3.1 - 3.6 optimal on the two Elevators 1.1 and 1.2 to distribute and so faster processing of different calls to enable. To enable this group control, the Elevator controls 20.1 and 20.2 with each other via a communication link 38.1 connected: By a data exchange over the communication link 38.1 the elevator controls 20.1 and 20.2 the operation of the elevators 1.1 and 1.2 coordinate accordingly.

• ein Arbeitsspeicher 26,
• ein Speicher 27 für Daten und ein Programm bzw. Programme zum Steuern eines Aufzugs während eines Betriebs des Aufzugs,
• eine Steuerelektronik 30, welche Funktionselemente zum Steuern des Aufzugs in Form von Hardware umfasst,
• ein Speicher 31, welcher eine Bibliothek mit Programmmodulen umfasst, die Programmcode zum Steuern des Aufzugs enthalten und bei einer Konfigurierung optional zur Verfügung stehen, und
• Speicher 35 und 45, die zur Kontrolle optionaler Funktionen dienen (wie unten erläutert wird).

As shown in FIG. 2, the elevator controls 20.1 and 20.2 are constructed identically. The elevator controllers 20.1 and 20.2 each include a processor 21 to which a plurality of components are connected via a connection 23:

• a main memory 26,
• a memory 27 for data and a program for controlling an elevator during operation of the elevator,
• an electronic control unit 30, which comprises functional elements for controlling the elevator in the form of hardware,
• a memory 31 comprising a library of program modules containing program code for controlling the elevator and optionally available upon configuration, and
• Memory 35 and 45, which serve to control optional functions (as explained below).

• eine Schnittstelle 36 für einen Austausch von Steuerungssignalen über die Steuerungsverbindung 36.1,
• eine Schnittstelle 38 für eine Kommunikation über die Kommunikationsverbindung 38.1,
• eine Schnittstelle 40 für eine Kommunikation über eine Kommunikationsverbindung 40.1 und
• eine Schnittstelle 49 für eine Kommunikation mit einer Service- und/oder Wartungszentrale 50 über eine Kommunikationsverbindung 49.1.

The processor 21 is in each case connected to a number of interfaces:

• an interface 36 for an exchange of control signals via the control connection 36.1,
• an interface 38 for communication via the communication link 38.1,
• an interface 40 for communication via a communication link 40.1 and
• an interface 49 for communication with a service and / or maintenance center 50 via a communication link 49.1.

The control electronics 30 and the memory 31 form (in the form of hardware and software) an implementation of the functions that are for the elevator control 20.1 or 20.2 to Control of elevators 1.1 and 1.2 may be available during operation. Which Functions in operation for controlling elevators 1.1 or 1.2 are actually available are determined by a configuration of the elevator controls 20.1 and 20.2.

The course of a configuration will be explained with reference to FIG. For this purpose, it is assumed that 2 n + m functions are implemented in the elevator control 20.1 or 20, these functions being symbolically represented in FIG. 3 by F ₁ , F ₂ ,..., F _n , F _{n + 1} , ...., F _{n + m are} denoted (with 1≤n and 1≤m). Each of these functions comprises one or more control commands, which can be transmitted via the respective control connection 36.1 in order to control the elevators 1.1 or 1.2. It is permitted that some of these functions fall back on other functions in terms of subfunctions.

It is assumed that the functions F ₁ to F _{n are} standard functions and the functions F _{n + 1} to F _{n + m are} optional functions. Consequently, in a configuration of the elevator control 20.1 or 20.2 with respect to the functions F ₁ to F _n no choice: After each configuration, these functions are available to control the elevators 1.1 and 1.2 in operation and are therefore activated. With regard to the functions F _{n + 1} to F _{n + m} , in a configuration of the elevator control 20.1 or 20.2, there are options: These functions can be activated as required. During the configuration, it is determined which of the optional functions F _{n + 1} to F _{n + m} are to be available for operation of the elevators 1.1 or 1.2 during operation, ie, to be activated.

a) eine Information darüber, ob eine der optionalen Funktionen F_i aktiviert ist;

b) falls die Funktion F_i aktiviert ist: eine Information darüber, ob diese Funktion deaktiviert werden soll und wenn ja, unter welchen Bedingungen bzw. an welchem Zeitpunkt;

c) gegebenenfalls weitere Parameter, die einer Spezifikation der Funktionen F_i dienen.

As a result of a configuration, for the optional functions F _{n + 1} to F _{n + m,} corresponding status information S _{n + 1} to S _{n + m is} generated and stored in the memory 35 of the elevator control 20.1 or 20.2 (see FIGS. 2 and 3). The status information S _i (i> n) is assigned to the optional function F _i , as indicated in FIG. 3 by double arrows. The status information S _i - available to the processor 21 during operation - holds the following information regarding the optional functions F _i :

a) information about whether one of the optional functions F _{i is} activated;

b) if the function F _{i is} activated: information about whether this function should be deactivated and if so, under what conditions or at what time;

c) optionally further parameters that serve a specification of the functions F _i .

The above points a) -c) are explained by way of example with reference to an optional function "individual disabled mode". If this disabled mode is activated, then in the operation of the elevator installation 1 it is provided that a disabled person can get acquainted with the elevator control 20.1 or 20.2 (according to any method implemented in the elevator control), with the result that all Doors which the disabled person has to pass through when using the elevator installation shall remain open for a period of time longer than a predetermined standard value and appropriate for the disabled person. In the present case, the status information S _i , which is assigned to this optional function "individual disabled mode" and is stored in the memory 35 when the elevator control 20.1 or 20.2 is configured, could, for example, have the following content: With regard to point a), that the optional function "individual disabled mode" is activated, that is, after the configuration is to be available during operation of the elevator installation 1; With regard to point b), for example, it is stipulated that this optional function is deactivated after a certain period of time following the configuration of the elevator control 20.1 or 20.2 and thus should no longer be available during operation of the elevator installation 1; With regard to point c), for example, a list of disabled persons who are to be identifiable by the elevator control and, for each identifiable person, a value for the respective duration of a door opening is stored.

(i) eine Funktion "Erfassung und/oder Diagnose von Betriebsdaten" (diese Funktion kann eine Erfassung und Diagnose von Betriebsdaten umfassen, die einen Zusatznutzen bringen gegenüber Betriebsdaten, die aufgrund gesetzlicher Bestimmungen bzw. Normen ohnehin von jeder Aufzugssteuerung aufbereitet werden müssen; beispielsweise kann diese Funktion als eine Option eine Erfassung aller Schaltvorgänge elektrischer Komponenten, eine statistische Diagnose dieser Schaltvorgänge und eine Speicherung von Ergebnissen dieser Diagnose o. ä. umfassen),

(ii) eine Funktion "Erfassung und/oder Verarbeitung von Wartungsdaten" (diese Funktion kann beispielsweise Daten über die Betriebsdauer einzelner Komponenten ermitteln, den Zeitpunkt der letzten Wartung für ausgewählte Komponenten ermitteln und Warnhinweise im Hinblick auf eine fällige Wartung liefern),

(iii) eine Funktion "Erstellung eines Fehlerprotokolls"
(diese Funktion kann beispielsweise auftretende Fehler im Betrieb der Aufzugsanlage feststellen und für jeden Fehler einen Fehlercode ermitteln, der eine detaillierte Analyse der Ursachen für das Auftreten des Fehlers ermöglicht; zusätzlich können Fehlercode über einen bestimmten Zeitraum gespeichert werden und verschiedene Fehler in eine Korrelation miteinander gebracht werden),

(iv) eine Funktion "Freigabe einer Kommunikationsschnittstelle für eine Datenkommunikation mit der Aufzugssteuerung",

(v) eine Funktion "automatische An-/Abschaltung einer Beleuchtung einer Aufzugskabine"
(diese Funktion erlaubt eine Steuerung einer Beleuchtung in einer Kabine in Abhängigkeit von der Anwesenheit von Personen),

(vi) eine Funktion "automatische An-/Abschaltung einer Beleuchtung auf einem Stockwerk"
(diese Funktion erlaubt eine Steuerung einer Beleuchtung auf einem Stockwerk in Abhängigkeit von der Anwesenheit von Personen),

(vii) eine Funktion "Steuerung einer Vorrichtung zur akustischen und/oder visuellen Wiedergabe von Informationen",

(viii) eine Funktion "Steuerung einer Vorrichtung zur Darbietung von Multimedia-Inhalten",

(ix) eine Funktion "Überwachung eines Innenraums einer Kabine",

(x) eine Funktion "Überwachung eines Vorraums an einer Stockwerkstür",

(xi) eine Funktion "Anzeige einer Position einer Kabine auf vorbestimmten Stockwerken",

(xii) eine Funktion "automatische Rückkehr einer Kabine auf ein vorbestimmtes Stockwerk",

(xiii) eine Funktion "vorzeitiges Öffnen von Kabinen- und/oder Stockwerkstüren vor einem Anhalten einer Kabine auf einem Stockwerk,"

(xiv) eine Funktion "Erkennen von missbräuchlichen Kabinenrufen",

(xv) eine Funktion "Gruppensteuerung für eine Gruppe von Aufzügen".

As further optional functions which can be activated during a configuration and can be deactivated at a later time, for example:

(i) a function "acquisition and / or diagnosis of operational data" (this function may include the acquisition and diagnosis of operational data providing an added benefit over operating data which, in any event, may need to be prepared by each elevator control due to legislation or standards; this function includes, as an option, detection of all switching operations of electrical components, a statistical diagnosis of these switching operations, and storage of results of this diagnosis or the like),

(ii) a function "collection and / or processing of maintenance data" (this function can, for example, determine data on the operating life of individual components, determine the time of the last maintenance for selected components and provide warnings with regard to a due maintenance),

(iii) an "error log generation" function
(This feature can detect, for example, faults occurring in the operation of the elevator installation and determine for each fault an error code that allows a detailed analysis of the causes of the fault, in addition to storing fault codes over a period of time and correlating various faults become),

(iv) a function "enabling a communication interface for data communication with the elevator control",

(v) a function "automatic activation / deactivation of a lighting of an elevator car"
(this function allows control of lighting in a cabin depending on the presence of people),

(vi) an "automatic on / off lighting function on a floor" function
(this function allows control of lighting on a floor depending on the presence of people),

(vii) a function "controlling an apparatus for acoustically and / or visually reproducing information",

(viii) a function "controlling a multimedia content presentation device",

(ix) a function "monitoring an interior of a car",

(x) a function "monitoring an anteroom on a landing door",

(xi) a function of "displaying a position of a car on predetermined floors",

(xii) a function "automatic return of a cabin to a predetermined floor",

(xiii) a function "premature opening of cabin and / or landing doors before stopping a car on a floor,"

(xiv) a function "detection of abusive car calls",

(xv) a function "group control for a group of elevators".

In the following, a method for configuring the elevator control 20.1 or 20.2 explained.

A configuration of the elevator control 20.1 or 20.2 can be made by transmitting an activation information Al to the elevator control 20.1 or 20.2 (see Fig. 2). The activation information A1 consists of a sequence of signals, via the communication link 40.1 and the interface 40 or via the Communication link 49.1 and the interface 49 to the processor 21 transmitted and can be evaluated by the processor 21.

For the transmission of the activation information Al, the communication link 40.1 or 49.1 and the interface 40 or 49, there are a variety of suitable Realization possibilities based on known technologies. The invention is not limited to a specific realization possibility.

The activation information Al may be, for example, digital data or analog Signals exist. As communication link 40.1 or 49.1 is any means for Transmission of data or signals suitable. As interface 40 or 49 is Accordingly, suitable any means that the data or signals to the processor 21 in a form suitable for further processing makes accessible. The Communication link 40.1 or 49.1, for example, on the transmission electrical or optical signals based, the transmission of the signals via Lines or not tied to lines (wireless) can be done. For the Generating the activation information A1 is suitable for a variety of technical means. The activation information Al can be generated by means of a keyboard which is connected to the Interface 40 is connected, for example by means of a keyboard that has a fixed Part of the controller 20.1 or 20.2 forms. Alternatively, the Activation information is also generated with a mobile computer and sent to the Interface 40 are transmitted. As a further alternative, it would be conceivable that Activation information Al at a remote location, such as in a Service Center or the service and / or maintenance center 50, to generate and to the Processor 21 for further processing. It is also possible that the Activation information in the form of data stored on a data medium, is presented and the data from the disk (for example, a memory card with a memory chip) must be read. In this case, the interface 40 also be designed as a device for reading the data.

• falls die Aktivierungsinformation Al verschlüsselt ist: eine entsprechende Entschlüsselung,
• eine Überprüfung der Aktivierungsinformation Al auf Gültigkeit nach einem vorgegebenen Kriterium und
• falls der Schritt "Überprüfung der Aktivierungsinformation Al auf Gültigkeit" ergibt, dass die Aktivierungsinformation dem vorgegebenen Kriterium genügt: eine Umsetzung der Aktivierungsinformation Al in Daten, die zur Konfigurierung der Aufzugssteuerung 20.1 bzw. 20.2 benötigt werden.

An activation information A1 transmitted to the processor 21 is evaluated by the processor 21 according to an evaluation criterion with an evaluation program which is stored in the memory 45. The evaluation includes:

• if the activation information Al is encrypted: a corresponding decryption,
• a check of the activation information Al validity according to a predetermined criterion and
• if the step "checking the activation information Al for validity" shows that the activation information meets the predetermined criterion: a conversion of the activation information Al into data that are required for the configuration of the elevator control 20.1 or 20.2.

The step "checking the activation information Al for validity" allows the processor 21 to check whether a configuration of the elevator control 20.1 or 20.2 and an activation of the optional functions F _{n + 1} to F _{n + m should be} made or prevented. Details of such a check will be explained below.

It is assumed that an activation information A1 evaluated as valid by the processor 21 is composed of three components Al ₁ , Al ₂ and Al ₃ , as indicated in FIG. 4.

If the activation information Al consists, for example, of a sequence of digital data, then Al could consist of three consecutive data sets, one of which each represents Al ₁ , Al ₂ or Al ₃ . It is an object of the processor 21 to suitably evaluate the activation information Al and to separate the components Al ₁ , Al ₂ and Al ₃ .

• Der Bestandteil Al₁ enthält Daten bzw. einen Code zur Identifikation der Aufzugssteuerung, die konfiguriert werden soll. Die Aktivierungsinformation wird als ungültig erkannt, wenn diese Daten bzw. dieser Code nicht übereinstimmen bzw. nicht übereinstimmt mit entsprechenden Daten bzw. einem entsprechenden Code für die vorliegende Aufzugssteuerung 20.1 bzw. 20.2;
• Der Bestandteil Al₂ enthält Daten bzw. einen Code für eine Überprüfung, ob die Übermittlung der Aktivierungsinformation Al von Unbefugten veranlasst wurde, d.h. einen offensichtlichen Missbrauch darstellt. Al wird vom Auswerteprogramm nur dann als gültig klassifiziert, wenn Al₂ mindestens eine oder mehrere der folgenden Bedingungen (i)-(ii) erfüllt: (i) Al₂ enthält eine dem Auswerteprogramm bekannte Kennzeichnung einer Person, die zur Übermittlung einer Aktivierungsinformation befugt sein soll und/oder (ii) Al₂ enthält eine dem Auswerteprogramm bekannte Kennzeichnung eines Vertrages, der das Recht zubilligt, eine Konfigurierung der Aufzugssteuerung 20.1 bzw. 20.2 vorzunehmen und/oder (iii) Al₂ enthält eine gültige Übermittlungsidentifikation, d.h. eine Kennzeichnung, die nur für eine einzige Übermittlung oder endlich viele Übermittlungen einer Aktivierungsinformation Al an den Prozessor 21 identisch ist. Die jeweils gültige Übermittlungsidentifikation gemäss Punkt (iii) kann nach einem vorgegebenen Verfahren unter Kontrolle des Prozessors 21 bzw. des Auswerteprogramms verändert werden, beispielsweise in Anschluss an eine erfolgreich abgeschlossene Konfigurierung. Die Übermittlungsidentifikation kann beispielsweise eine Folge von mehreren Zeichen sein. Das Auswerteprogramm überprüft die übermittelte Aktivierungsinformation Al anhand der Punkte (i)-(iii) und klassifiziert Al ― abhängig von einem Ergebnis der Überprüfung - als gültig bzw. ungültig.
• Der Bestandteil Al₃ enthält Daten, die eine Aktivierung und/oder Deaktivierung der optionalen Funktionen F_n+1 bis F_n+m festlegen. Al₃ umfasst die Information, welche der optionalen Funktionen F_n+1 bis F_n+m bei der Konfigurierung aktiviert werden sollen, und die Information, unter welchen Bedingungen eine der aktivierten optionalen Funktionen zu einem späteren Zeitpunkt deaktiviert werden soll. Die Aktivierungsinformation Al wird als gültig angesehen, wenn Al₃ die zu aktivierenden optionalen Funktionen eindeutig spezifiziert.

Activation information A1 is checked for validity by means of the evaluation program as follows:

• The component Al ₁ contains data or a code for identifying the elevator control to be configured. The activation information is recognized as invalid if this data or this code does not match or does not agree with corresponding data or a corresponding code for the present elevator control 20.1 or 20.2;
• The component Al ₂ contains data or a code for a check as to whether the transmission of the activation information Al was initiated by unauthorized persons, ie represents obvious abuse. Al is classified by the evaluation program as valid only if Al ₂ fulfills at least one or more of the following conditions (i) - (ii): (i) Al ₂ contains an identification of a person known to the evaluation program who is authorized to transmit activation information should and / or (ii) Al ₂ contains a program known to the evaluation of a contract that grants the right to make a configuration of the elevator controls 20.1 and 20.2 and / or (iii) Al ₂ contains a valid transmission identification, ie a label that only for a single transmission or finally many transmissions of an activation information Al to the processor 21 is identical. The respectively valid transmission identification according to item (iii) can be changed according to a predetermined method under the control of the processor 21 or of the evaluation program, for example following a successfully completed configuration. For example, the delivery identification may be a sequence of multiple characters. The evaluation program checks the transmitted activation information Al based on the items (i) - (iii) and classifies Al as valid or invalid depending on a result of the check.
• The component Al ₃ contains data that specify an activation and / or deactivation of the optional functions F _{n + 1} to F _{n + m} . Al ₃ includes the information as to which of the optional functions F _{n + 1} to F _{n + m} should be activated during configuration and the information under which conditions one of the activated optional functions should be deactivated at a later time. The activation information Al is considered valid if Al ₃ uniquely specifies the optional functions to be activated.

• Eine gültige Aktivierungsinformation Al wird an den Prozessor 21 übermittelt.
• Nach einer Verifikation der Gültigkeit der Aktivierungsinformation Al nach dem oben beschriebenen Verfahren werden aus der Gruppe der optionalen Funktionen F_n+1 bis F_n+m diejenigen Funktionen ermittelt, die gemäss dem Bestandteil Al₃ aktiviert werden sollen. Die entsprechenden Statusinformationen S_n+1 bis S_n+m werden vom Prozessor 21 bestimmt und im Speicher 35 abgelegt.

A configuration of the elevator control 1.1 or 1.2 can be made according to the following steps:

• A valid activation information Al is transmitted to the processor 21.
• After a verification of the validity of the activation information A1 according to the method described above, those functions are determined from the group of optional functions F _{n + 1} to F _{n + m} that are to be activated according to the component Al ₃ . The corresponding status information S _{n + 1} to S _{n + m} are determined by the processor 21 and stored in memory 35.

After a configuration of the elevator controls 20.1 or 20.2, an operation of the Lift system 1 are added.

During operation of the elevator installation 1, the elevator 1.1 is controlled according to a program P1, which is stored in the memory 27 of the elevator control 20.1. Accordingly, the elevator 1.2 is controlled according to a program P2, which is stored in the memory 27 of the elevator control 20.2. The programs P1 and P2 have access to the memory 35 of the respective elevator control 20.1 or 20.2 and in particular to the status information S _{n + 1} to S _{n + m} . The status information S _{n + 1} to S _{n + m} provide the program P1 or P2 with the information as to which of the optional functions F _{n + 1} to F _{n + m} - in addition to the standard functions F ₁ to F _n in operation for controlling the elevators 1.1 or 1.2 are available. The status information S _{n + 1} to S _{n + m} provide the program P1 or P2 - if necessary - in addition to each activated optional function F _i (i> n) further parameters that are specific to the operation of the elevator 1.1 or 1.2 and to a determination of all control steps that includes the function F _i needed. On the basis of the status information S _{n + 1} to S _{n + m} , the program P1 or P2 has access to the optional functions F _{n + 1} to F _{n + m} and, while activated, can operate them to control the elevator Use 1.1 or 1.2.

Should the optional function "group control function for a group of Elevators "(above function below (xv)) is activated, then this optional function provides in operation for a coordinated sequence of programs P1 and P2 for controlling the Lifts 1.1 and 1.2.

The processor 21 of the elevator control 20.1 controls in operation the status information S _{n + 1} to S _{n + m} , which are stored in the memory 35 of the elevator control 20.1, and determines from the status information whether one of the status information S _{n + 1} to S _{n + m} conditions for deactivating one of the activated optional functions is met. If the time for a deactivation of F _{i has} come for an activated optional function F _i (i> n) according to the corresponding status information S _i , then the optional function F _{i is} deactivated. For this purpose, the status information S _{i is} suitably changed, for example, deleted in the memory 35 of the elevator control 20.1. From now on, the deactivation of the optional function F _{i is} effective for the program P1: F _i is no longer available for the elevator control 20.1 in operation for controlling the elevator 1.1. Accordingly, the processor 21 and the memory 35 together form a device which initiates automatic deactivation of the optional function F _i .

Accordingly, the processor 21 controls the elevator controller 20.2 in operation the status information S _{n + 1} to S _{n + m} , which are stored in the memory 35 of the elevator control 20.2, and determines whether one of the in the status information S _{n + 1} to S _{n + m} specified conditions for deactivating one of the activated optional functions. If the time for a deactivation of F _{i has} come for an activated optional function F _i (i> n) according to the corresponding status information S _i , then the optional function F _{i is} deactivated. For this purpose, the status information S _{i is} suitably changed, for example, deleted in the memory 35 of the elevator control 20.2. From now on, the deactivation of the optional function F _{i is} effective for the program P2: F _i is no longer available for the elevator control 20. 2 in operation for controlling the elevator 1.2. Accordingly, the processor 21 and the memory 35 together form a device which initiates automatic deactivation of the optional function F _i .

In order to determine the time for a deactivation of an optional function F _k (k> n), the processor 21 of the elevator control 20.1 or 20.2 can each execute different types of controls. The status information S _k can specify, for example, that a deactivation of F _k should take place after a predetermined period of time. For certain optional functions, however, it may be decisive for a deactivation of how frequently a specific event has occurred during the operation of the elevators 1.1 or 1.2. In this case, the status information S _k includes information about which event must be monitored by the processor 21 and how often the event may occur before the function is automatically deactivated. In this case, the processor determines a frequency of the event so predetermined and causes the deactivation of F _k when the frequency of the event reaches a predetermined level. An example of the latter case is the optional function "premature opening of cabin and / or landing doors before stopping a car on a floor" (above function under (xiii)). This function accelerates the operation as the doors already opened a defined period of time before stopping a car on a floor and thus a prerequisite is created that a waiting time of the cabin is reduced on the floor. Activation of this function, however, involves risks if the doors show signs of wear and tear after frequent use and the optional function "premature opening of cab and / or landing doors before stopping a car on a floor" can no longer be carried out with the necessary precision. In this case, it may be provided that the processor 21 determines the number of door openings executed during operation and deactivates the function "premature opening of booths and / or landing doors" when the number reaches a predetermined level. The doors are then operated according to a standard function "normal opening of cabin and / or landing doors". Here, the doors are opened only when the cabin has come to a halt on a floor. By this measure, only the operation of the elevator is slowed down.

As an additional service, it is provided that the elevator control 20.1 or 20.2 at least one hint of imminent deactivation of an optional one Function delivers. An imminence of deactivation can be timely Information display the elevator control 20.1 or 20.2 are displayed. alternative Such an indication can be transmitted to a service center 50. To such a To enable transmission, the interface 49 is provided for a Communication with the service and / or maintenance center 50 via the Communication link 49.1 is prepared.

An activation of an optional function can be repeated at a later time. For this purpose, an activation information Al can again be transmitted via the interface 40 to the processor 21 of the elevator control 20.1 or 20.2. Then a renewed configuration of the elevator control 20.1 or 20.2 takes place in accordance with this activation information A1. It is important to note that the evaluation program may require a modified transmission identification in the component Al _{2 of} the activation information to accept the activation information Al as valid, even if the remaining parts of the activation information match with a corresponding activation information that already at an earlier time was successfully used for a configuration of the elevator control 20.1 or 20.2. In this way, the risk is reduced that certain activation information can be repeatedly used by unauthorized persons to configure the elevator controls 20.1 or 20.2 and thus to reactivate a previously deactivated optional function.

If, after the activation of an optional function F _i, the wish exists to change the criterion for deactivating the function F _i , for example in order to extend or shorten the period in which the function F _{i is} activated, then the criterion for the deactivation of the function F _{i be} suitably adapted by a renewed transmission of an activation information Al. The status information S _i for the function F _i is then changed accordingly in the memory 35. The processor 21 then causes a deactivation of F _i according to the changed status information S _i .

Of course, the described methods and devices can be used in the context of Invention modified manifold.

For example, the memories 26, 27, 31, 35 and 45 do not necessarily have to be separate Storage media be realized. The data associated with the mentioned memories You can also use areas on a single storage medium or several suitable ones Storage media (e.g., hard disks, EPROM, etc.) and from the processor 21 be managed on the respective storage medium.

The activation and deactivation of the optional functions F _{n + 1} to F _{n + m} can also be carried out by alternative methods. For example, an optional function F _i may be implemented in the form of a program module, which is stored, for example, in the memory 31. For activating the function F _i , for example, a program code could be loaded into another memory area, for example into the memory 27, and linked to the program P1 or P2 stored in the memory 27 in such a way that the program code for the program P1 or P2 for the program P1 or P2 Control of the elevator 1.1 or 1.2 is available. To deactivate the optional function F _i , the link between the program code and the program P 1 or P 2 could be canceled and, if appropriate, the program code in the memory 27 could additionally be deleted again. Subsequently, the program code is no longer available for the program P1 or P2 in operation for controlling.

The elevator control 20.1 or 20.2 has in the present case a processor 21, the controls a variety of processes. Alternatively, the elevator control 20.1 or 20.2 be equipped with multiple processors. For example, a first Processor can be provided which evaluates incoming activation information and the Activation or deactivation of the optional functions. This Processor would therefore the configuration of the elevator control 20.1 or 20.2 check. A second processor could only be used to control the elevator 1.1 or 1.2 be responsible in the company. He could run the program P1 or P2 control and to perform this task access to all standard functions and have optional functions that are currently activated for the operation of the elevator installation are.

To realize a group control for several elevators of an elevator installation, Optionally, a third processor could be provided which is based on the control of Group control processes is specialized. During each elevator of the elevator system may have its own elevator control, the third processor can handle the entire Traffic volume of the elevator system to the individual elevators after one distribute appropriate procedures and for this purpose with the elevator controls of the individual elevators communicate to coordinate the of the Elevator controls of each elevator to achieve controlled processes.

Furthermore, it could be provided that the elevator control 20.1 or 20.2 with a Device could be connected, which is an implementation of additional optional Functions for controlling an elevator includes. Single of these additional optional Functions could in a further configuration of the elevator control 20.1 or 20.1 are activated. In this way, the functional scope of the elevator control 20.1 or 20.2 can be subsequently extended. Such a device could also be used in the elevator control are integrated (for example in the form of a plug-in card and / or a memory card) or via a suitable communication interface with the Elevator control 20.1 or 20.2 are connected such that the additional optional functions for the elevator control 20.1 or 20.2 are accessible.

In the above cases, the device could be the additional contains optional functions, and the elevator control 20.1. or 20.2 such be formed such that the device only with the elevator control 20.1 or 20.2 must be connected via a suitable interface and the elevator control then automatically detects the connection with the device, for example in Operation of the elevator system or after switching on the elevator control. The Elevator control 20.1 or 20.2 can be designed so that they are in this way automatically detects the changed configuration of the elevator control - for example, according to the "plug-in-and-play" principle known from computer technology - And automatically makes a new configuration of the elevator control, in which the additional optional functions are activated, i. for the control of Elevator system to be provided during operation. The above Device can - for example in a memory - an activation information for Available, which is evaluable by the elevator control and all necessary Information needed to enable the additional optional features be included (for example, with regard to an identification of the activating optional functions and the respective time of activation or the Deactivation of optional functions). Alternatively, it can be provided that the The above device itself contains a control device suitable for a Deactivation of the implemented in the device optional functions according to can provide a predetermined criterion (within the meaning of the present invention).

Fig. 3 specifies an activation information Al with three components Al ₁ , Al ₂ and Al ₃ . It should be noted that such specified activation information is merely a specific example of activation information. The components Al ₁ and Al ₂ contain no information about the optional functions that are to be activated or deactivated, and only form special security features that are intended to complicate the misuse of the activation information Al. The invention can also be carried out without such security features.

Claims (14)

Method for operating an elevator installation (1), comprising an elevator control (20.1, 20.2) with a plurality of functions (F ₁ , .., F _n , F _{n + 1} ...., F _{n + m} ) for controlling the elevator installation (1), wherein the plurality of functions (F ₁ , ..., F _{n + m} ) comprises:
at least one optional function (F _{n + 1} , ..., F _{n + m} ), which is activatable in a configuration of the elevator control (20.1, 20.2) and by an activation for controlling during operation of the elevator installation is available, which Method comprises activating the optional function (F _{n + 1} , ..., F _{n + m} ),
characterized in that
after activation, the optional function (F _{n + 1} , ..., F _{n + m} ) is automatically deactivated, with the optional function after deactivation no longer being available for controlling the elevator installation (1) during operation. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that
an activation information via an interface (40, 49) of the elevator control (20.1, 20.2) is transmitted and the activation of the optional function (F _{n + 1} , ..., F _{n + m} ) is caused when the activation information meets a first criterion , A method according to claim 2, characterized in that
the activation information comprises a code and the code is checked for validity. A method according to claim 2, characterized in that
the activation information comprises data stored on a data carrier and the data is read and examined for validity. Method according to one of claims 1-4, characterized in that
the time of deactivation is initiated by the elevator control (20.1, 20.2) according to a second criterion. Method according to claim 5, characterized in that
the deactivation of the optional function (F _{n + 1} , ..., F _{n + m} ) is initiated after a predetermined period of time
and / or that a frequency of a predetermined event is determined and the deactivation of the optional function (F _{n + 1} , ..., F _{n + m} ) is caused when the frequency of the event reaches a predetermined level
and / or that the second criterion when operating the elevator installation (1) is variable. Method according to one of claims 1- 6, characterized in that the elevator control (20.1, 20.2) at least provides an indication of imminent deactivation and / or that an indication of imminent deactivation to a service and / or maintenance center (50 ) is transmitted. A method according to claim 2, characterized in that the activation of the optional function (F _{n + 1} , ..., F _{n + m} ) is performed a first time and then the first criterion is modified such that the activation does not happen again is made when the same activation information via the interface (40) of the elevator control (20.1, 20.2) is transmitted. Method according to one of claims 1- 8, characterized in that
the optional function (F _{n + 1} , ..., F _{n + m} ) comprises: a recording and / or diagnosis of operating data and / or a collection and / or processing of maintenance data and / or creating an error log and / or a release of a communication interface (38, 49) for data communication with the elevator control (20.1, 20.2) and / or automatic activation / deactivation of a lighting of an elevator car (5.1, 5.2) and / or automatic switching on / off of a lighting on a floor (3.1, .., 3.6) and / or a control of a device for the acoustic and / or visual reproduction of information and / or a controller of a multimedia content presentation device and / or monitoring an interior of a cabin (5.1, 5.2) and / or monitoring an anteroom on a storey door (4) and / or an indication of a position of a car (5.1, 5.2) on predetermined floors (3.1, .., 3.6) and / or an automatic return of a cabin (5.1, 5.2) to a predetermined floor (3.1, .., 3.6) and / or premature opening of cabin and / or landing doors prior to stopping a car (5.1, 5.2) on a floor (3.1, .., 3.6) and / or detecting abusive car calls and / or a group control for a group of elevators (1.1, 1.2). Elevator control (20.1, 20.2) having a plurality of functions (F ₁ , .., F _n , F _{n + 1} ..., F _{n + m} ) for controlling an elevator installation (1), wherein the plurality of functions ( F ₁ , .., F _n , F _{n + 1} ...., F _{n + m} ) comprises:
at least one optional function (F _{n + 1} ...., F _{n + m} ), which can be activated in a configuration of the elevator control (20.1, 20.2) and by an activation for controlling the elevator installation (1) during operation is available .
characterized in that
the elevator control (20.1, 20.2) comprises a device (21, 45) for automatically deactivating the optional function (F _{n + 1} ...., F _{n + m} ), the deactivation after the activation being provided and the optional function ( F _{n + 1} ...., F _{n + m} ) after deactivation is no longer available for controlling during operation of the elevator installation (1). Elevator control according to claim 10, characterized in that the elevator control (20.1, 20.2)
an interface (40, 49), via which an activation information for controlling the activation and / or the deactivation of the optional function (F _{n + 1} ...., F _{n + m} ) can be transmitted comprises. Elevator control according to claim 11, characterized in that
an evaluation of the activation information is provided and the activation and / or deactivation of the optional function (F _{n + 1} ..., F _{n + m} ) is executable as a function of a result of the evaluation and / or that the activation information comprises a code , wherein a check of the code for validity according to a predetermined criterion is provided. Elevator control according to one of claims 10-12, characterized in that a memory (35) for status information (S _{n + 1} , ..., S _{n + m} ) with respect to the activation or deactivation of the optional function (F _{n + 1} ...., F _{n + m} ) is provided. Elevator control according to one of claims 10-13, characterized in that for activating the optional function (F _{n + 1} ...., F _{n + m} ) a program code in a memory (27) is loadable and for deactivating the optional function ( F _{n + 1} ...., F _{n + m} ) the program code in the memory is erasable.

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