EP1584599A2 - Method and device for automatically testing the availability of an elevator - Google Patents

Abstract

The method involves registering reaction based on actuation of a cage door, shaft door, change of drive state of the lift (1.1,1.2), control signals of components in lift or detected position of the cage. The usage frequency of the lift is estimated and is measured for different time periods. The measured and estimated values are compared. A test command is output, when the measured value is smaller than the estimated value. An independent claim is also included for device for automatically checking availability of lift installation.

Description

The invention relates to a method for automatically checking the availability an elevator installation with at least one elevator according to the preamble of Claim 1 and an apparatus for automatically checking the availability of a Elevator installation with at least one elevator according to the preamble of claim 8.

It is in the interest of an operator of an elevator system, the elevator system in one To maintain state, for users of the plant the highest possible level of availability guaranteed. As malfunctions affect the availability of the elevator system can and additionally pose a security risk to users, it is for the Operator of the elevator system of interest that malfunctions as early as possible detected and, where appropriate, their causes are detected.

In US3973648 is an elevator system with a communication interface for a Communication with a remote maintenance center revealed. From the remote maintenance center can via the communication interface of the elevator system a communication connection between a test system and an elevator control of the elevator installation getting produced. The test system is programmable such that it becomes a predetermined one Time establishes a communication connection with the elevator control and automatically cabin and / or floor calls according to a given program sends to the elevator control and the respective reaction of the elevator system analyzed. The analysis of the reactions thus provides information about whether the Elevator installation is currently available. The procedure disclosed in US3973648 has several disadvantages. For example, the availability of the elevator system is only verifiable at times scheduled by staff in the remote maintenance center, or at times that are preprogrammed. The test system should then be used when the elevator system is not used, for example at night. information about the availability of the elevator system during the times in which people usually use the elevator system, are not won in this way. malfunctions during the main usage times of the elevator system therefore not automatically detected automatically. Another disadvantage is the fact that the described tests a reliable statement about the availability of the elevator system only allow if the tests all possible rides of an elevator installation between include any floors. Accordingly, the tests lead to a large number by testing the elevator at times when the elevator is normally used by persons not used. Furthermore, a variety of a remote maintenance center is usually connected by elevator systems. This concept usually excludes that Communication connections with the individual elevator systems over an arbitrarily long Period can be maintained. A single elevator installation is therefore as a rule, can not be controlled without interruption from a remote maintenance center.

The present invention begins with the disadvantages mentioned. The invention is the Task is based on a method for automatically checking the availability of a To create elevator installation, which is suitable, an impairment of availability the elevator system during any period with the lowest possible number of tests quickly, especially if the elevator system of passengers is used. Furthermore, the invention is intended to provide a device for Implementation of such a method is suitable.

This object is achieved according to the invention by a method having the features of Claim 1 and a device with the features of claim 8 solved.

The dependent claims define preferred embodiments of the invention Method or the inventive device.

In the method according to the invention an automatic checking of the availability an elevator installation with at least one elevator realized in that the Elevator installation at least one predetermined command to execute at least one Tests the lift system is given and then at least one reaction of Lift system registered and compared with a desired response of the elevator system. If the lift system is available, the test should produce the desired response, i. the registered response should match the target response.

Whether or, if so, when the command to execute the test is given will According to the invention, it is determined as follows: It is a first estimate for a frequency of use of the elevator determined for a first period and / or a second Estimate of the frequency of use for a second period, the second period begins later than the first period. Moreover a measurement of the frequency of use for the first period is determined and the reading is compared to at least one of the estimates. Subsequently, the Command given if the measured value is lower by a predetermined amount than the respective one Estimate.

If the registered response matches the target response, then it can be assumed be that the elevator is available. If the registered reaction does not match the If the response is the same, then it can be assumed that the elevator is not available is.

A use in this context is intended to benefit every user Service of the elevator are understood. As a rule, there is a use in connection with a car call, a floor call, a move command and / or a command to open or close a door or doors.

The term frequency of use is intended in this context to mean any quantitative measure for the frequency of use, assuming that the frequency of use the greater the more frequently the use takes place. For example it is possible to determine a frequency of use as the number of usages used in take place at a predetermined time interval. Alternatively, it is also possible to use a frequency derive from a length of a time interval different from a given one Time to the time of the next use extends, the frequency of use as the reciprocal value of the time interval could be determined. For example could have a frequency of use as the reciprocal of the time interval between two consecutive uses.

• wenn die im Betrieb gemessene Benutzungsfrequenz geringer ist als erwartet (in diesem Fall könnte ein Betriebsstörung vorliegen) oder
• wenn ein Anstieg der Benutzungsfrequenz um ein vorgegebenes Mass erwartet wird (in diesem Fall wird vor dem erwarteten Anstieg der Benutzungsfrequenz überprüft, ob der Aufzug verfügbar ist, um gegebenenfalls - falls der Aufzug nicht verfügbar sein sollte - rechtzeitig vor dem Anstieg mittels geeigneter Massnahmen die Verfügbarkeit des Aufzugs wiederherstellen zu können).

The invention is based on the idea that the fact that an elevator is currently being used is usually a proof that the elevator is available. An occasion to check availability by means of a test is therefore only seen during the operation of a lift:

• if the frequency of use measured during operation is lower than expected (in this case, there may be a malfunction) or
• if an increase in the frequency of use is expected by a predetermined amount (in which case the lift is available before the expected increase in the frequency of use, if necessary, if the elevator should be unavailable, the availability, in good time before the increase, by appropriate measures) to recover the elevator).

An estimate of the frequency of use of the elevator for a predetermined period of time for example, can be determined by first using before this period the elevator and the times of the respective uses are registered. In a further step may be based on plausible assumptions about a temporal Development of the frequency of use from the already registered times of the Uses are determined, which frequency of use for the predetermined period can be expected. This expected frequency of use would be in this context to be considered as the above estimate.

Assumptions about the temporal evolution of the frequency of use may be based on a usage model, i. on the basis of a theoretical model for Uses of the elevator to be taken. In the context of the invention, a usage model be chosen appropriately depending on the situation.

For a lift in a publicly accessible building could be a usage model for example, based on a statistical analysis of uses become. For example, a statistical analysis may show that the frequency of use As expected, certain trends follow depending on a number of Parameters, for example as a function of time over the course of a day, from day to day or from week to week, due to user habits or other factors (Hours, holidays, weather, etc.). In addition, plannable events influence the course of the frequency of use. This is how events, where a certain number of people participate during a defined Time span affect the frequency of use in a characteristic way. For example can be expected to use the frequency of use at the beginning or at the end of such events rises sharply and then subsides, with the extent of the increase depends on the number of participants.

In other cases, an elevator installation could be operated under conditions that constantly changing and showing no long-term trends. In this case, plausible Assumptions about a temporal evolution of the frequency of use are made based on a usage model that only forecasts short-term Makes trends. For example, the temporal change of the frequency of use measured over a first period of time and then the temporal behavior the frequency of use during a second period following the first period estimated by extrapolation of those measured during the first period Values for the frequency of use. The extrapolation is based on the assumption that there is a correlation between the time course of the frequency of use in the first period and the time course of the frequency of use in the second period. For example, should the frequency of use increase steadily in a first period of time, so it can be assumed that this trend is at least over a certain Time continues after the end of the first period. On the other hand, should the frequency of use steadily decreasing in a first period, it can be assumed that the frequency of use at least for a certain time after the end of the first Period continues to decrease by a certain amount. That way, readings can be taken for the frequency of use for the first period to be used Estimates of the frequency of use for a period of time following the first period to determine.

In a further variant of the inventive method is provided that the Determining a measurement of the frequency of use a duration of a time interval is specified and a number of uses of the elevator during the time interval be registered, and the measured value of the number and duration is calculated (e.g., as the quotient of the number and duration). This variant of the method is particularly advantageous if as estimates Statistical data are used for the frequency of use, each for Time intervals are determined with a predetermined duration.

In an alternative to the above-mentioned variant of the method is provided for determining a measurement value for the frequency of use, in each case a number predetermined by uses of the elevator and a duration of a time interval, in which these uses are registered, and the measured value is determined from the number and the duration is calculated (e.g., as a quotient of the predetermined number and the respective duration). In the simplest case, the predetermined number can be 1.

(i) gleich dem ersten Schätzwert ist, falls sich der erste Schätzwert und der Messwert um nicht mehr als einen vorgegebenen Betrag unterscheiden oder

(ii) kleiner als der erste Schätzwert ist, falls der Messwert um mehr als der vorgegebene Betrag kleiner ist als der erste Schätzwert oder

(iii) grösser als der erste Schätzwert ist, falls der Messwert um mehr als der vorgegebene Betrag grösser ist als der erste Schätzwert.

Diese Verfahrensschritte können iterativ ausgeführt werden. In einer ersten Wiederholung der Verfahrensschritte kann zunächst ein Messwert für die Benutzungsfrequenz für den zweiten Zeitraum bestimmt werden. Anschliessend kann gemäss einem der vorstehend genannten Verfahrensschritte (i), (ii) oder (iii) ein Schätzwert für einen auf den zweiten Zeitraum folgenden weiteren Zeitraum ermittelt werden, usw.A further embodiment of the method according to the invention comprises the following method steps: a first estimate of the frequency of use and a measurement of the frequency of use are each determined for a first period of time and a second estimate of a second period following the first period is set to a value of the

(i) is equal to the first estimate if the first estimate and the measurement differ by no more than a predetermined amount, or

(ii) is less than the first estimate if the reading is less than the first estimate or more than the predetermined amount

(iii) greater than the first estimate if the reading is greater than the first estimate by more than the predetermined amount.

These process steps can be carried out iteratively. In a first repetition of the method steps, a measured value for the frequency of use for the second period can first be determined. Subsequently, according to one of the above-mentioned method steps (i), (ii) or (iii), an estimated value for a further period following the second period can be determined, etc.

This embodiment of the method according to the invention has several advantages.

The above steps (i), (ii) and (iii) can be realized, for example, in the form of mathematical function, which is an estimate and a measurement of the frequency of use for a given period each an estimated value for a later Allocates period. Such a mathematical function may be for the purposes of the invention Method be suitably selected according to various criteria. To the one defines the mathematical function a prescription, like one in the execution of the method required for the frequency of use from measured values for the Frequency of use should be calculated. The iteration of the above-mentioned method steps therefore makes it possible to carry out the method according to the invention such that any estimated value obtained during the execution of the procedure on a certain time must be known, using the mathematical Function can be calculated successively from measured values for the frequency of use can be determined at an earlier date. Because the measurements for the frequency of use can change during operation of the elevator over time, can the estimated values of the frequency of use determined by the mathematical function also change as a function of time. In carrying out the procedure Therefore, the respective estimates for the frequency of use are constantly dependent on adjusted by measurements for the frequency of use. This adaptation helps to keep the number of tests during the procedure as much as possible can be kept low. To optimize the procedure, the mathematical Function can be selected accordingly.

In a further embodiment of the method according to the invention, it is provided that that registers a reaction of the elevator installation and / or a use of the elevator is by means of a registration of an operation of a car door and / or a shaft door and / or a registration of a change of a state of a drive of the elevator installation and / or a registration of an operation of a brake and / or a Registration of signals for controlling components of the elevator installation and / or a detection of a position of a car of the elevator. In usual elevator systems are actuations of a car door or a shaft door and / or a change a state of a drive of the elevator system and / or operations of a brake and / or signals for controlling components of the elevator installation and / or a position a cabin of the elevator detected anyway by means of suitable sensors. usual As a rule, elevator systems therefore include sensors whose signals are disrupted about the time of use. These signals can be used for a determination of measured values for the frequency of use of an elevator and form thus a basis for carrying out the inventive method.

The command to execute at least one test of the elevator installation can be, for example a car call, a floor call and / or a move command include. Car calls Floor calls and / or travel commands can be used in conventional elevators with relative simple means are generated. This is often possible without the use of detailed Information about the structure of an elevator control.

The target response may include, for example, the following operations: open and Closing a storey door of the elevator installation and / or opening and closing one Cabin door and / or a ride of a cabin from a predetermined floor to a another predetermined floor. Such operations are relatively easy to capture by means of sensors which are present in the usual elevator systems anyway.

• einen Befehlsgeber, mit dem an eine Aufzugssteuerung für mindestens einen Aufzug ein vorgegebener Befehl zum Ausführen mindestens eines Tests der Aufzugsanlage gegeben werden kann, wobei der Test so gewählt ist, dass bei Verfügbarkeit der Aufzugsanlage eine Soll-Reaktion der Aufzugsanlage registrierbar ist,
• eine Registrierungsvorrichtung zur Registrierung einer auf den Befehl folgenden Reaktion der Aufzugsanlage,
• eine Einrichtung zum Vergleichen der Reaktion mit der Soll-Reaktion,
• eine Einrichtung zur Ermittlung eines ersten Schätzwerts für eine Benutzungsfrequenz des Aufzugs für einen ersten Zeitraum und/oder zur Ermittlung eines zweiten Schätzwerts für die Benutzugsfrequenz während eines zweiten Zeitraums,
• eine Messvorrichtung zur Ermittlung eines Messwerts für die Benutzungsfrequenz für den ersten Zeitraum, und
• eine Steuervorrichtung zum Steuern des Befehlsgebers derart, dass der Befehl gegeben wird, wenn der Messwert um ein vorgegebenes Mass geringer ist als einer der Schätzwerte.

In order to carry out the described methods for automatically checking the availability of an elevator installation, according to the invention a device is suitable, which comprises:

• a command generator, with which a predetermined command for executing at least one test of the elevator installation can be given to an elevator control for at least one elevator, the test being selected so that a desired reaction of the elevator installation can be registered when the elevator installation is available,
• a registration device for registering a response of the elevator installation following the command,
• means for comparing the response with the desired response,
• a device for determining a first estimate for a frequency of use of the elevator for a first time period and / or for determining a second estimated value for the frequency of use during a second time period,
• a measuring device for determining a measurement of the frequency of use for the first period, and
• a control device for controlling the commander such that the command is given when the measured value is smaller by a predetermined amount than one of the estimated values.

The inventive device can, for example, in the vicinity of the elevator installation be installed.

The inventive device can be provided with means for communication via a Communication connection for the transmission of a predetermined information to a Monitoring Center be equipped in the event that the reaction does not comply with the target response matches. If necessary, the inventive device can the Automatically enable communication with the monitoring center. Should the Situation occur that the elevator system becomes unavailable, then can on this Ways to be taken care of automatically.

• Das Verfahren führt nur zu einem Test der Aufzugsanlage, wenn Beobachtungen des Betriebs einen Hinweis liefern, dass ein solcher Test momentan nützlich sein könnte. Auf diese Weise kann erreicht werden, dass die Zahl der Tests gering gehalten wird und Betriebsstörungen schnell erkannt werden.
• Die erfindungsgemässe Vorrichtung kann in konventionellen Anlagen in der Regel ohne Schwierigkeiten nachgerüstet werden. Dies ist möglich, da Kabinenrufe, Stockwerksrufe und/oder Fahrbefehle mit einfachen Mittel erzeugt werden können und Benutzungen des Aufzugs und Reaktionen des Aufzugs wie beispielsweise Öffnen und Schliessen einer Schachttür der Aufzugsanlage und/oder Öffnen und Schliessen einer Kabinentür und/oder eine Fahrt einer Kabine mit einfachen Mitteln registriert werden können.
• Das erfindungsgemässe Verfahren ist auch geeignet zum Überprüfen der Verfügbarkeit einer Aufzugsanlage mit mehreren Aufzügen, die eine Gruppensteuerung aufweisen.

The method according to the invention or the device according to the invention offers further advantages:

• The method only results in a test of the elevator installation when observations of the operation provide an indication that such a test might be useful at the moment. In this way it can be achieved that the number of tests is kept low and malfunctions are quickly detected.
• The inventive device can be retrofitted in conventional systems usually without difficulty. This is possible because car calls, floor calls and / or driving commands can be generated with simple means and uses of the elevator and reactions of the elevator such as opening and closing a shaft door of the elevator system and / or opening and closing a car door and / or a ride a cabin can be registered with simple means.
• The method according to the invention is also suitable for checking the availability of an elevator installation with several elevators having a group control.

Fig. 1

eine Aufzugsanlage mit zwei Aufzügen und einer erfindungsgemässen Vorrichtung zum automatischen Überprüfen der Verfügbarkeit der Aufzugsanlage;

Fig. 2

die erfindungsgemässe Vorrichtung gemäss Fig. 1 im Detail;

Fig. 3

ein Verlauf von Schätzwerten und Messwerten für eine Benutzungsfrequenz eines Aufzugs als Funktion der Zeit für verschiedene Zeiträume;

Fig. 4

Flussdiagramm für eine Ausführungsform des erfindungsgemässen Verfahrens, welches anwendbar ist auf die Schätzwerte bzw. Messwerte gemäss Fig. 3;

Fig. 5

Flussdiagramm für eine weitere Ausführungsform des erfindungsgemässen Verfahrens.

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

Fig. 1

an elevator installation with two elevators and an apparatus according to the invention for automatically checking the availability of the elevator installation;

Fig. 2

the device according to the invention according to FIG. 1 in detail;

Fig. 3

a plot of estimates and measurements for a frequency of use of an elevator as a function of time for different periods of time;

Fig. 4

Flowchart for an embodiment of the inventive method, which is applicable to the estimated values or measured values according to FIG. 3;

Fig. 5

Flowchart for a further embodiment of the inventive method.

Fig. 1 shows an elevator system 1 with two elevators 1.1 and 1.2 of the same type in Connection with an inventive device 30 for automatic checking the availability of the elevator installation 1.

The elevator installation 1 is installed in a building with six floors 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5 and 3.6. For each of the elevators 1.1 and 1.2 is in each case a shaft 2.1 or 2.2 intended. On each floor 3.x there are two landing doors 4. x (x = 1-6).

The elevator 1.1 comprises: a cabin 5.1 with a cabin door 6.1 on one of the floors 3.x facing side, a counterweight 7.1, a support means 8.1 for the cabin 5.1 and the counterweight 7.1, a drive 10.1 with a traction sheave for the suspension element 8.1 and an elevator control 15.1. The cab 5.1 and the counterweight 7.1 are respectively 8.1 connected to each other via the support means 8.1, wherein the support means 8.1 the traction sheave of the drive 10.1 wraps around. Activation of the drive 10.1 causes a Rotation of the traction sheave and thus an opposite movement of the cabin 5.1 and of the counterweight 7.1 upwards or downwards. To control the elevator 1.1 in operation can via a communication link 16.1 signals between the elevator control 15.1 and various controllable components of the elevator 1.1 are transmitted.

Accordingly, the elevator 1.2 comprises a car 5.2 with a car door 6.2 on a the floors 3.x facing side, a counterweight 7.2, a support means 8.2 for the Cab 5.2 and the counterweight 7.2, a drive 10.2 with a traction sheave for the Supporting means 8.2 and an elevator control 15.2. The cabin 5.2 and the counterweight 7.2 are connected to each other via the support means 8.2, wherein the support means 8.2 wraps around the traction sheave of the drive 10.2. Activation of the drive 10.2 causes a rotation of the traction sheave and thus an opposite movement of the cabin 5.2 and the counterweight 7.2 upwards or downwards. To control the elevator 1.2 im Operation can via a communication link 16.2 signals between the elevator control 15.2 and various controllable components of the elevator 1.2 transmitted become.

The elevators 1.1 and 1.2 can each independently by the elevator control 15.1 bzw.15.2 be controlled. In addition, there is a communication connection 18 provided between the elevator controls 15.1 and 15.2. About the communication connection If necessary, signals can be sent between the elevator controls 15.1 and 15.2 are exchanged to elevators 1.1 and 1.2 as elevator group with to be able to operate a group control.

• Einrichtungen 21.1, 21.2, 21.3, 21.4, 21.5, 21.6 zur Überwachung und zur Registrierung einer Betätigung der Schachttüren 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4, 4.5, 4.6,
• Einrichtungen 22.1 bzw. 22.2 zur Überwachung der Kabinentüren 6.1 bzw. 6.2 und zur Registrierung einer Betätigung der Kabinentüren 6.1 bzw. 6.2,
• eine im Schacht 2.1 angeordnete Codierung 23.1 für eine Position der Kabine 5.1 und eine an der Kabine 5.1 angeordnete Einrichtung 24.1 zum Lesen der Codierung 23.1 und zur Erfassung der Position der Kabine 5.1,
• eine im Schacht 2.2 angeordnete Codierung 23.2 für eine Position der Kabine 5.2 und eine an der Kabine 5.2 angeordnete Einrichtung 24.2 zum Lesen der Codierung 23.2 und zur Erfassung der Position der Kabine 5.2,
• Einrichtungen 25.1 bzw. 25.2 zur Registrierung eines Zustands des Antriebs 10.1 bzw. 10.2 und zur Registrierung einer Änderung eines Zustands des Antriebs 10.1 bzw. 10.2 (ein Zustand eines Antriebs kann beispielsweise durch einen Stromfluss im jeweiligen Antrieb oder eine Geschwindigkeit oder eine Beschleunigung von Komponenten, die bei einer Aktivierung des jeweiligen Antriebs bewegt werden, charakterisiert werden),
• Einrichtungen 26.1 bzw. 26.2 zum Registrieren einer Betätigung einer Bremse des Aufzugs 1.1 bzw. 1.2,
• Einrichtungen 27.1 bzw. 27.2 zum Registrieren von Signalen der Aufzugssteuerung 15.1 bzw. 15.2 (zur Steuerung der Aufzugsanlage),
• Einrichtungen 28.1 bzw. 28.2 um Registrieren von Personen im Umfeld der Aufzugsanlage 1 bzw. der Aufzüge 1.1 und 1.2 (beispielsweise Bewegungsmelder, Kameras, Lichtschranken etc.).

The elevator installation 1 has - as indicated in FIGS. 1 and 2 - a number of devices which are intended to detect different operating states of the elevator installation and, if necessary, to register changes in operating conditions:

• Facilities 21.1, 21.2, 21.3, 21.4, 21.5, 21.6 for monitoring and registering an actuation of the landing doors 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4, 4.5, 4.6,
• Means 22.1 or 22.2 for monitoring the car doors 6.1 or 6.2 and for registering an actuation of the car doors 6.1 or 6.2,
• a coding 23.1 arranged in the shaft 2.1 for a position of the car 5.1 and a device 24.1 arranged on the car 5.1 for reading the coding 23.1 and for detecting the position of the car 5.1,
• an encoding 23.2 arranged in the shaft 2.2 for a position of the car 5.2 and a device 24.2 arranged on the car 5.2 for reading the code 23.2 and for detecting the position of the car 5.2,
• Devices 25.1 or 25.2 for registering a state of the drive 10.1 or 10.2 and registering a change in a state of the drive 10.1 or 10.2 (a state of a drive, for example, by a current flow in the respective drive or a speed or acceleration of components, which are moved upon activation of the respective drive, are characterized),
• Means 26.1 or 26.2 for registering an actuation of a brake of the elevator 1.1 or 1.2,
• Means 27.1 or 27.2 for registering signals of the elevator control 15.1 or 15.2 (for controlling the elevator installation),
• Devices 28.1 and 28.2 to register persons in the vicinity of the elevator installation 1 or the elevators 1.1 and 1.2 (for example, motion detectors, cameras, photoelectric sensors, etc.).

When using one of the elevators 1.1 or 1.2 is usually at least one the doors moved and / or the position of one of the cabins 5.1 and 5.2 changed and / or a state of one of the drives 10.1 or 10.2 changed and / or at least one signal one of the elevator controls 15.1 and 15.2 generated. In addition, a use sets usually the presence of at least one person in the vicinity of the elevator installation 1 ahead.

When using one of the elevators 1.1 or 1.2, therefore, changes usually occur operating conditions associated with at least one of the devices 21.1, 21.2, 21.3, 21.4, 21.5, 21.6, 22.1, 22.2, 24.1, 24.2, 25.1, 25.2, 26.1, 26.2, 27.1, 27.2, 28.1, 28.2 can be recorded. These devices provide signals that the characterize the respective operating state. Use of one of the elevators 1.1 or 1.2 can therefore be registered with the help of one of the aforementioned facilities. The signals of these devices can be used by the elevator controls 15.1 or 15.2 are detected via communication links 17.1 and 17.2, as indicated in Fig. 2 is.

Fig. 2 shows details of the device 30. This comprises a device 30.1 for checking the availability of the elevator 1.1 and a device 30.2 for checking the availability of the elevator 1.2. The devices 30.1 and 30.2 are substantially the same built up.

• eine Kommunikationsschnittstelle 31.1 für eine Kommunikation mit den Einrichtungen 21.1, 21.2, 21.3, 21.4, 21.5, 21.6, 22.1, 24.1, 25.1, 26.1, 27.1, 28.1 über eine Kommunikationsverbindung 41.1,
• eine Kommunikationsschnittstelle 32.1 für eine Kommunikation mit der Aufzugssteuerung 15.1,
• einen Speicher M11 für ein Programm zum Überprüfen der Verfügbarkeit des Aufzugs 1.1 (im Folgenden "P1.1" genannt),
• einen Speicher M12 für Schätzwerte für eine Benutzungsfrequenz des Aufzugs 1.1,
• einen Speicher M13 für Messwerte für die Benutzungsfrequenz des Aufzugs 1.1,
• einen Speicher M14 für Daten.

The device 30.1 comprises a processor P1 and various components with which the processor P1 can exchange data during operation:

• a communication interface 31.1 for communication with the devices 21.1, 21.2, 21.3, 21.4, 21.5, 21.6, 22.1, 24.1, 25.1, 26.1, 27.1, 28.1 via a communication connection 41.1,
• a communication interface 32.1 for communication with the elevator control 15.1,
• a memory M11 for a program for checking the availability of the elevator 1.1 (hereinafter referred to as "P1.1"),
• a memory M12 for estimates of a frequency of use of the elevator 1.1,
• a memory M13 for measurements of the frequency of use of the elevator 1.1,
• a memory M14 for data.

a) Unter der Kontrolle des Programms P1.1 kann der Prozessor P1 Signale der Einrichtungen 21.1, 21.2, 21.3, 21.4, 21.5, 21.6, 22.1, 24.1, 25.1, 26.1, 27.1, 28.1 auswerten.

b) Die Auswertung der Signale gemäss a) ermöglicht die Registrierung von Benutzungen des Aufzugs 1.1 und die Ermittlung von Messwerten für die Benutzungsfrequenz des Aufzugs 1.1. Der Prozessor P1 bildet demnach zusammen mit mindestens einer der Einrichtungen gemäss a) und dem Speicher M11 eine Messvorrichtung für die Benutzungsfrequenz des Aufzugs 1.1. Die Messwerte für die Benutzungsfrequenz können als Funktion der Zeit registriert werden. Die Messwerte für die Benutzungsfrequenz können im Speicher M13 abgelegt werden.

c) Unter der Kontrolle des Programms P1.1 kann der Prozessor P1 Befehle geben, die über die Kommunikationsverbindung 42.1 an die Aufzugssteuerung 15.1 übermittelt werden, beispielsweise einen Befehl zum Ausführen eines Tests des Aufzugs 1.1. Der Prozessor P1 bildet demnach zusammen mit dem Speicher M11 einen Befehlsgeber für die Aufzugssteuerung 15.1.

d) Unter der Kontrolle des Programms P1.1 kann der Prozessor P1 die Signale der Einrichtungen 21.1, 21.2, 21.3, 21.4, 21.5, 21.6, 22.1, 24.1, 25.1, 26.1, 27.1, 28.1 registrieren und auswerten, die unmittelbar auf den jeweiligen Befehl gemäss c) folgen. Die Signale charakterisieren eine Reaktion des Aufzugs 1.1 auf den jeweiligen Befehl. Der Prozessor P1 bildet demnach zusammen mit mindestens einer der vorstehend genannten Einrichtungen und dem Speicher M11 eine Registrierungsvorrichtung für Reaktionen des Aufzugs 1.1.

e) Im Speicher M14 können beispielsweise Daten gespeichert werden, die alle möglichen Soll-Reaktionen des Aufzugs 1.1 spezifizieren und jeweils den Befehlen zugeordnet sind, die an die Aufzugssteuerung gegeben werden können und die jeweiligen Soll-Reaktionen hervorrufen. Unter der Kontrolle des Programms P1.1 kann der Prozessor P1 für den gemäss d) an die Aufzugssteuerung gegebenen Befehl die entsprechende Soll-Reaktion ermitteln und eine gemäss d) registrierte Reaktion vergleichen mit der Soll-Reaktion. Der Prozessor P1 bildet demnach zusammen mit den Speichern M11 und M14 eine Einrichtung zum Vergleichen einer Reaktion mit einer Soll-Reaktion.

f) Im Speicher M12 können Schätzwerte für die Benutzungsfrequenz des Aufzugs 1.1 abgelegt werden. Schätzwerte für die Benutzungsfrequenz für einen bestimmten Zeitraum können unter Kontrolle des Programms P1.1 beispielsweise aus Messwerten für die Benutzungsfrequenz nach Verfahren bestimmt werden, die im Folgenden erläutert werden. Zur Bestimmung von Schätzwerten für die Benutzungsfrequenz können auch Signale der Einrichtungen 28.1 bzw. 28.2 herangezogen werden. Signale dieser Einrichtungen geben Auskunft über die Anzahl von Personen, die sich der Aufzugsanlage nähern oder sich von der Aufzugsanlage entfernen oder sich in einem Bereich an der Aufzugsanlage aufhalten. Ändert sich Anzahl der von den Einrichtungen 28.1 bzw. 28.2 registrierten Personen, so ist zu erwarten, dass sich im Verlauf der Zeit auch die Benutzungsfrequenz des Aufzugs ändern wird. Registrieren die Einrichtungen 28.1 bzw. 28.2 eine bestimmte Anzahl von Personen, die sich der Aufzugsanlage 1 nähern, so ist zu erwarten, dass die Benutzungsfrequenz ansteigen wird. Ist in diesem Fall beispielsweise ein Messwert für die Benutzungsfrequenz für einen ersten Zeitraum bekannt, so kann ein Schätzwert der Benutzungsfrequenz für einen späteren Zeitraum aus dem Messwert und der Anzahl der registrierten Personen berechnet werden. Die Anzahl der registrierten Personen legt in diesem Fall eine obere Grenze für die Benutzungsfrequenz im zweiten Zeitraum fest.

g) Unter der Kontrolle des Programms P1.1 kann der Prozessor P1 Schätzwerte und Messwerte für die Benutzungsfrequenz vergleichen und in Abhängigkeit von einem Ergebnis des Vergleichs entscheiden, ob und gegebenenfalls wann ein Befehl zum Ausführen eines Tests des Aufzugs 1.1 gemäss c) gegeben werden soll.

The program P1.1 can run under the control of the processor P1. The program P1.1 controls various processes:

a) Under the control of the program P1.1, the processor P1 can evaluate signals of the devices 21.1, 21.2, 21.3, 21.4, 21.5, 21.6, 22.1, 24.1, 25.1, 26.1, 27.1, 28.1.

b) The evaluation of the signals according to a) allows the registration of uses of the elevator 1.1 and the determination of measured values for the frequency of use of the elevator 1.1. The processor P1 accordingly forms, together with at least one of the devices according to a) and the memory M11, a measuring device for the frequency of use of the elevator 1.1. The measurements of the frequency of use can be registered as a function of time. The measured values for the frequency of use can be stored in memory M13.

c) Under the control of the program P1.1, the processor P1 can give commands which are transmitted to the elevator control 15.1 via the communication connection 42.1, for example a command for carrying out a test of the elevator 1.1. The processor P1 thus forms together with the memory M11 a command generator for the elevator control 15.1.

d) Under the control of the program P1.1, the processor P1 can register and evaluate the signals of the devices 21.1, 21.2, 21.3, 21.4, 21.5, 21.6, 22.1, 24.1, 25.1, 26.1, 27.1, 28.1 which are directly related to the respective ones Follow the instructions in c). The signals characterize a reaction of the elevator 1.1 to the respective command. The processor P1 thus forms, together with at least one of the aforementioned devices and the memory M11, a registration device for reactions of the elevator 1.1.

e) In the memory M14, for example, data can be stored, which specify all possible target reactions of the elevator 1.1 and are respectively assigned to the commands that can be given to the elevator control and cause the respective desired responses. Under the control of the program P1.1, the processor P1 can determine the corresponding desired reaction for the command given to the elevator control according to d) and compare a reaction registered according to d) with the desired reaction. The processor P1 thus forms, together with the memories M11 and M14, means for comparing a response with a desired response.

f) Estimates for the frequency of use of the elevator 1.1 can be stored in the memory M12. Estimates of the frequency of use for a particular period of time may be determined under control of program P1.1, for example, from frequency of use measurements according to methods that are explained below. In order to determine estimates for the frequency of use, it is also possible to use signals from the devices 28.1 or 28.2. Signals from these devices provide information about the number of people approaching the elevator installation or moving away from the elevator installation or staying in an area at the elevator installation. If the number of persons registered by the devices 28.1 or 28.2 changes, it is to be expected that the frequency of use of the elevator will also change over time. If the devices 28.1 or 28.2 register a specific number of persons approaching the elevator installation 1, it is to be expected that the frequency of use will increase. If in this case, for example, a measurement of the frequency of use is known for a first period, then an estimate of the frequency of use for a later period can be calculated from the measured value and the number of registered persons. The number of registered persons in this case sets an upper limit for the frequency of use in the second period.

g) Under the control of the program P1.1, the processor P1 can compare estimated values and measurements for the frequency of use and, depending on a result of the comparison, decide whether and, if so, when an instruction to execute a test of the elevator 1.1 according to c) should be given ,

• eine Kommunikationsschnittstelle 31.2 für eine Kommunikation mit den Einrichtungen 21.1, 21.2, 21.3, 21.4, 21.5, 21.6, 22.2, 24.2, 25.2, 26.2, 27.2, 28.2 über eine Kommunikationsverbindung 41.2,
• eine Kommunikationsschnittstelle 32.2 für eine Kommunikation mit der Aufzugssteuerung 15.2,
• einen Speicher M21 für ein Programm zum Überprüfen der Verfügbarkeit des Aufzugs 1.2 (im Folgenden " Programm P1.2 " genannt),
• einen Speicher M22 für Schätzwerte für eine Benutzungsfrequenz des Aufzugs 1.2,
• einen Speicher M23 für Messwerte für die Benutzungsfrequenz des Aufzugs 1.2,
• einen Speicher M24 für Daten.

Analogous to the structure of the device 30.1, the device 30.2 comprises a processor P2 and various components with which the processor P2 can exchange data during operation:

• a communication interface 31.2 for communication with the devices 21.1, 21.2, 21.3, 21.4, 21.5, 21.6, 22.2, 24.2, 25.2, 26.2, 27.2, 28.2 via a communication link 41.2,
• a communication interface 32.2 for communication with the elevator control 15.2,
• a memory M21 for a program for checking the availability of the elevator 1.2 (hereinafter referred to as "program P1.2"),
• a memory M22 for estimates of a frequency of use of the elevator 1.2,
• a memory M23 for measurements of the frequency of use of the elevator 1.2,
• a memory M24 for data.

The program P1.2 can be under the control of the processor P2
expire. Program P1.1 and program P1.2 are equivalent. The statements concerning the program P1.1 according to the above points a) -g) apply correspondingly to the program P1.2, the functions of the communication interfaces 31.2 or 32.2 of the device 30.2 corresponding to the respective functions of the communication interfaces 31.1 or 32.1 of the device 30.1 , The functions of the memories M21, M22, M23, M24 of the device 30.2 correspond to the respective functions of the memories M11, M12, M13, M14.

The processors P1 and P2 can communicate with one another via a communication link 35 are connected, as indicated in Fig. 2. Via the communication connection 35 Data can be exchanged between the processors P1 and P2. This is useful when the elevators 1.1 and 1.2 operated as an elevator group with a group control become. The devices 30.1 and 30.2 but can also independently operate.

The program P1.1 or P1.2 can use several different commands to execute a Tests on the elevator control 15.1 or 15.2 give: for example a car call, a landing call and / or a move command. Accordingly, different target reactions of the elevator 1.1 or 1.2 considered: opening and closing a Shaft door of the elevator installation and / or opening and closing of a car door and / or a trip of a cabin from a predetermined floor to another predetermined one Floor.

As indicated in FIG. 2, the processors P1 and P2 are connected to a communication interface 33 for communication with a monitoring center 50 via a Communication connection 43 connected. Should during operation of the devices 30.1 or 30.2 be found that one of the elevators 1.1 or 1.2 not is available, so can the processors P1 and P2 via the communication link 43 communicate a predetermined information to the monitoring center 50, to point out this situation.

In the following, three variants of the inventive method for automatic Checking the availability of an elevator system using the elevator system as an example 1 described. The first two variants ("Process A", "Process B") relate on the review of a single elevator. The third variant ("method C") relates focus on a group of two lifts with a group control.

Method A

Method A will be described using an example of an automatic availability check of the elevator 1.1 explained by means of the device 30.1.

• Es wird davon ausgegangen, dass der Aufzug 1.1 in einer Folge von aufeinander folgenden Zeiträumen ΔT(i) mit jeweils gleicher Dauer t_e(i)- t₀(i) benutzt wird. Der Index i (i≥1) kennzeichnet die jeweiligen Zeitintervalle, t₀(i) bezeichnet den Zeitpunkt des Beginns des Zeitraums ΔT(i) und t_e(i) bezeichnet den Zeitpunkt des Endes des Zeitraums ΔT(i).
• Es wird angenommen, dass alle Benutzungen unter Bedingungen stattfinden, die sich nach Beginn jedes einzelnen der Zeiträume ΔT(i) auf ähnliche Weise wiederholen. Unter dieser Voraussetzung ist zu erwarten, dass eine Benutzungsfrequenz des Aufzugs 1.1 in jedem der Zeiträume ΔT(i) - abgesehen von statistischen Schwankungen - denselben zeitlichen Verlauf (bezogen auf den Beginn des jeweiligen Zeitraums) zeigt. Der Einfachheit halber wird angenommen, dass das Ende eines Zeitraums mit dem Beginn des unmittelbar folgenden Zeitraums zusammenfällt, d.h. t_e(i) = t₀(i+1).

With regard to the uses of the elevator 1.1, it is assumed that a usage model is based on the following assumptions:

• It is assumed that the elevator 1.1 is used in a succession of consecutive periods ΔT (i), each having the same duration t _e (i) -t ₀ (i). The index i (i≥1) denotes the respective time intervals, t ₀ (i) denotes the time of commencement of the period ΔT (i) and t _e (i) denotes the time of the end of the period ΔT (i).
• It is assumed that all uses take place under conditions that repeat in a similar manner after the beginning of each of the periods ΔT (i). Under this condition, it is to be expected that a frequency of use of the elevator 1.1 in each of the periods ΔT (i) - apart from statistical fluctuations - shows the same time course (relative to the beginning of the respective period). For the sake of simplicity, it is assumed that the end of a period coincides with the beginning of the immediately following period, ie t _e (i) = t ₀ (i + 1).

Such a usage model is, for example, realistic for an elevator installation in a public building. The number of visitors to such a building and thus the number of users of the lift system fluctuates on consecutive days - due to opening hours, the habits of visitors, or similar - in each case after the same Laws as a function of time. Under certain circumstances, the number of Users still experience day-to-day fluctuations that follow long-term trends, for example due to seasonal influences.

Under the above conditions, it can be assumed that an estimate for the frequency of use for a certain period ΔT (n) from measured values for the Frequency of use for one or more previous periods ΔT (i) with i <n by means of statistical Methods can be obtained.

According to method A, measurements for the frequency of use are determined as follows.

The starting point is a sequence of uses of the elevator 1.1 which take place at times t _B (k) after the beginning of the period ΔT (i = 1). The index k identifies the individual uses.

For times t> t ₀ (i), the uses of the elevator 1.1 and the respective time t _B (k) of use are registered by means of the device 30.1.

For times t> t ₀ (i), measured values N _m (i, t) for a frequency of use of the elevator 1.1 are determined as follows. Each period ΔT (i) with t ₀ (i) ≦ t ≦ t _e (i) is subdivided into a predetermined number of, for example, m subintervals ΔT (i, j) of equal length d, where ΔT (i, j) is defined as a period δT (i, j): t 0 (i) + (j-1) d ≦ t ≦ t 0 (i) + jd with d = (t _e (i) - t ₀ (i)) / m and j = 1, .., m.

N (i, j) denotes the number of uses registered in the sub-interval δT (i, j). The measured value N _m (i, t) for the frequency of use is now defined according to N m (i, t) = N (i, j) / d for t ₀ (i) + (j-1) d≤t≤t ₀ (i) + jd

The measured value N _m (i, t) of the frequency of use is thus determined as the quotient of the number of uses registered during the time interval ΔT (i, j) and the duration of the time interval ΔT (i, j).

In method A, provision is made for an estimated value N _S (i, t) for the frequency of use ΔT (i) from measurements for the frequency of use for the time periods ΔT (k) with k <i preceding the period ΔT (i) determine.

Estimates N _s can be determined, for example, iteratively according to the recursion formula (starting from i = 1): N S (i + 1, t) = N S (i, t - Δ (i)) + [N m (i, t - Δ (i)) - N S (i, t -Δ (i))] / λ = F (i, t, λ) where Δ (i) = t ₀ (i + 1) -t ₀ (i) indicates the time period between the beginning of the period ΔT (i + 1) and the beginning of the period ΔT (i). In the present case, t ₀ (i + 1) = t _e (i) is assumed, ie Δ (i) = t _e (i) -t ₀ (i) = t _e (i + 1) -t ₀ (i + 1) corresponds to the duration of the periods ΔT (i) and ΔT (i + 1).

The left side of the recursion formula defines usage frequency estimates as Function of time for the period ΔT (i + 1). The right side takes into account estimates and measurements of the frequency of use as a function of time for the period ΔT (i). The term Δ (i) on the right side of the recursion formula takes into account that the beginning of the period .DELTA.T (i + 1) compared to the beginning of the period .DELTA.T (i) by the duration of the Period ΔT (i), i. is shifted by Δ (i) and that the method assumes acceptance underlying that is the frequency of use in all periods - based on the beginning period - should have a similar course as a function of time (apart from statistical fluctuations that occur over several consecutive Periods may occur).

The function F (i, t, λ) contains a parameter λ, which can be suitably selected for optimization purposes and determined empirically. For λ = 1, for example, F (i, t, λ) = N _m (i, t-Δ (i)). In this case, it is assumed that the usage frequency measured for a period ΔT (i) is equal to the usage frequency estimate for the following period ΔT (i + 1). In the limiting case λ → ∞, on the other hand, F (i, t, λ) = N _S (i, t-Δ (i)) = N _S (i + 1, t-Δ (i)). In this case, the estimates for the frequency of use would thus be independent of the index i, ie identical for all periods ΔT (i). In this case, the measurements N _m (i, t) for the frequency of use have no influence on the size of the corresponding estimates. The parameter λ in the function F (i, t, λ) thus determines with which weighting a measured value N _m (i, t) for a time interval ΔT (i) in comparison to estimates of the frequency of use for the periods ΔT (k) k ≤ i affects the estimate of the frequency of use N _s (i + 1, t) for the following period ΔT (i + 1).

In other words, by means of an iteration according to the recurrence formula F (i, t, λ) the estimates of the frequency of use for consecutive periods of current Trends can be adjusted, resulting in the time dependence of the measurements of the frequency of use in the course of several consecutive periods ΔT (k) with k ≤i demonstrate.

The above iteration can be started with starting values for N _S (i = 1, t), which can be chosen arbitrarily. In a repeated application of the iteration according to the function N _S (i + 1, t) = F (i, t, λ), the frequency of use estimates thus calculated converge more or less rapidly to realistic values corresponding to a statistical expectation value for the frequency of use according to a statistical analysis of uses of the elevator 1.1. The speed of convergence depends on the choice of the parameter λ. Accordingly, the parameter λ determines inter alia how quickly the device 30.1 can determine realistic statistical data for uses of the elevator 1.1 during the operation of the elevator 1.1 on the basis of the method A. In the course of the convergence of the iteration, the device 30.1 thus undergoes a "learning phase" during which it can collect and evaluate data about uses of the elevator 1.1.

The above parameter λ can additionally be optimized according to the criterion that the Device 30.1 in operation on the basis of the method A as few commands to perform a test of the elevator 1.1.

It is understood that other statistical methods can be used instead of the iteration according to the function N _S (i + 1, t) = F (i, t, λ) in order to obtain realistic estimates for the frequency of use.

The method A will be explained below with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4.

Fig. 3 shows (superimposed) two diagrams each as a function of time t. The upper diagram is assigned to the period ΔT (i) and the lower diagram to the period ΔT (i + 1). The end of the period ΔT (i) coincides with the beginning of the period ΔT (i + 1), ie t _e (i) = t ₀ (i + 1).

The diagrams represent data for estimated values N _S and measured values N _m and minimum values N _min stored in the memories M12, M13 and M14. This data will be collected, managed and analyzed at the end of program P1.1.

The upper diagram in FIG. 3 shows an estimated value N _S (i, t) for the frequency of use of the elevator 1.1, a corresponding measured value N _m (i, t) for the frequency of use and a minimum value N _min (i, t) for the frequency of use , The lower diagram in FIG. 3 shows an estimated value N _S (i + 1, t) for the frequency of use of the elevator 1.1 and a minimum value N _min (i + 1, t) for the frequency of use.

The timelines of the diagrams are divided into 24 hours each. The diagrams indicate by way of example that the elevator 1.1 is usually used only between 5 and 21 o'clock. The estimated values N _S (i, t) and N _S (i + 1, t) are equal to 0 in the time between 21 o'clock in the evening and 5 o'clock in the morning. According to the course of the curves N _S (i, t) and N _S ( i + 1, t) peak values of the frequency of use are expected between 5 and 21 o'clock in the morning, at noon and in the evening at times.

The diagrams in FIG. 3 represent the estimated values N _S, measured values N _m and minimum values N _min for a time at 16 o'clock during the period ΔT (i). According to FIG. 3, it is assumed that the measured values N _{m are} just above 15 o'clock assume the value 0. Accordingly, measured values for N _m are recorded in the time between 15 and 16 o'clock, but no uses of the elevator 1.1 have been registered. For the time from 16 o'clock in the period ΔT (i) no measured values N _{m have been} recorded.

4 shows the steps of method A in the form of a flow chart with the method steps S1-12.

In process step S1 , the device 30.1 is initialized: the processor P1 sets an internal counter i to i = 1 and an internal clock to the time t = t ₀ (i), ie the beginning of the period .DELTA.T (i). The process of program P1.1 is started. Then continue with S2.

In step S2, the period .DELTA.T (i) with t ₀ (i) ≤ t ≤ t _e (i) is defined, in which the availability of the elevator 1.1 is to be checked. Then continue with S3.

In method step S3 , the estimated values N _S (i, t) for the frequency of use of the elevator 1.1 for the period ΔT (i) are loaded from the memory M12 into the processor P1.

In method step S4 , uses of the elevator 1.1 or the respective time t _B (k) of each use (index k) are registered and measured values N _m (i, t) for the frequency of use are determined as a function of time during the period ΔT (i) and stored in memory M13. From the measured values N _m (i, t) and estimated values N _s (k, t) with k ≦ i, estimates N _s (i + 1, t) can be calculated, for example according to the above iteration N _s (i + 1, t ) = F (i, t, λ), and then stored in memory M12.

Parallel to the method step S4, the method steps S5, S7 and S12 run.

In method step S5 , the processor P1 checks whether the end of the period ΔT (i) has reached t ₀ (i) ≦ t ≦ t _e (i). If yes, then continue with method step S6 (path +). If not, then step S4 is continued (path -).

In step S6 , the index i is incremented by one. Subsequently, the previous steps are repeated from S2.

In method step S7 it is checked whether the measured value N _m (i, t) for the frequency of use of the elevator falls below the minimum value N _min (i, t). N _min (i, t) is smaller by a predetermined amount than the respective estimated value N _S (i + 1, t), as indicated in FIG. 3. If the measured value N _m (i, t) for the frequency of use of the elevator falls below the minimum value N _min (i, t), then the method continues with method step S8 (path +). If not, then continue with step S4 (path -).

In step S8 , an instruction for executing a test of the elevator 1.1 is given to the elevator control 15.1 (at the time t _T ). Subsequently, the process continues with method step S9.

In method step S9 , a reaction R of the elevator 1.1 is registered.

Subsequently, in method step S10, the reaction R is compared with a desired reaction R _S. If the reaction R agrees with the desired response R _S , then it can be assumed that the elevator 1.1 is available. In this case you can continue with S4 (path +). If the reaction R does not match the target response R _S , then it can be assumed that the elevator 1.1 is not available. In this case you can continue with S11 (path -).

In method step S11 , it is communicated to the monitoring center 50 that the elevator 1.1 is not available. Subsequently, the process is interrupted. If the elevator 1.1 is available again, then the method can be continued with the method step S1.

In method step S12 , it is checked whether it is to be expected that-starting from a point in time t-within a period Δt, an increase in the frequency of use is expected by more than a predetermined amount ΔN _S , ie, (N _m (t) <N _S (t + Δt) - ΔN _S ). If an increase by more than ΔN _{S is} expected, a precautionary command is given for carrying out a test according to method step S8 (path +). If the latter is not the case, then S4 is continued (path -).

As indicated in FIG. 3, in the process steps S7 and S12, an instruction to execute a test is given once to the elevator controller 15.1. A first test at time t _T (1) is due to step S12. In this case, it was successfully checked that the elevator is available just before a sharp increase in the frequency of use in the morning.

A second test at the time t _T (2) is due to the method step S7. In this case, shortly after a sharp drop in the frequency of use below the minimum value N _min (i, t) at about 15 o'clock, it was checked whether the elevator 1.1 is available. The result is negative: The frequency of use N _m (t) remains 0 for t> t _T (2) because elevator 1.1 is not available.

The values for N _S (i + 1, t) for the frequency of use and the minimum value N _min (i + 1, t) in the lower diagram of FIG. 3 are calculated from the values N _S (i, t) and N _m ( i, t) for the period ΔT (i) according to the iteration N _S (i + 1, t) = F (i, t, λ). For t> t _T (2) + Δ (i), N _S (i + 1, t) = N _S (i, t - Δ (i)) was set, since for this range no corresponding measured values of the frequency of use in the time interval ΔT (i) have been registered (N _m (t) = 0 for t> t _T (2) in the period ΔT (i), see above).

Obviously result for the estimated values N _S (i + 1, t) for the period .DELTA.T (i + 1) each have values which are greater or equal to or smaller than the respective estimated values N _S (i, t) for the period .DELTA.T (i), depending on whether the measured values N _m (i, t) are greater than or equal to or smaller than the corresponding estimated values N _S (i, t) (assuming λ> 0).

The method A can be organized so that the test according to method step S8 is not executed in a predetermined time interval, for example when the elevator 1.1 is not used or only slightly used, e.g. during a night.

Method B

Method B will be described using an example of an automatic availability check of the elevator 1.1 explained by means of the device 30.1.

1) auf einer Beobachtung des Betriebs des Aufzugs 1.1 und gegebenenfalls auf der Registrierung von Benutzungen des Aufzugs 1.1 (sofern vorhanden) und einer Bestimmung des jeweiligen Zeitpunkts t_B einer Benutzung mit Hilfe der Vorrichtung 30.1,

2) auf einer Bestimmung des Zeitabstands zweier aufeinander folgender Benutzungen und

3) auf einer Schätzung des Zeitpunkts, bis zu dem nach der zuletzt registrierten Benutzung die nächste Benutzung zu erwarten ist.

Procedure B is based on the following measures:

1) on an observation of the operation of the elevator 1.1 and, if applicable, on the registration of uses of the elevator 1.1 (if present) and a determination of the respective time t _B of use by means of the device 30.1,

2) on a determination of the time interval between two consecutive uses and

3) on an estimate of the time until the next use is to be expected after the last registered use.

Measure 3) corresponds to the estimation of a time interval between the last registered Use and the next expected usage. The reciprocal value of this estimated time interval corresponds to an estimate of the frequency of use for a period immediately following the last registered use.

In carrying out the method B, the above measures 1) -3) respectively executed in succession and then repeated. Will be up to that in measure 3) estimated time no further use of the elevator 1.1 found so can be suspected that the elevator 1.1 is not available. According to method B is under this condition from the device 30.1 an instruction to perform a test to the Lift control 15.1 is given and checks if the elevator 1.1 meets the expectations corresponding reaction shows.

5 shows the steps of method B in the form of a flowchart with method steps S20-S33.

In method step S20 , the device 30.1 is initialized: the processor P1 sets an internal counter i to i = 1 and an internal clock to the time t = t ₀ (i). The process of program P1.1 is started. Subsequently, the process continues with method step S21.

In method step S21 , a period ΔT (i) is set with t ₀ (i) ≦ t ≦ t _e (i). The reciprocal of the duration may be considered as the estimated value N _s (i) for the frequency of use for the period ΔT (i), ie, N _s (i) = 1 / [t _e (i) -t ₀ (i)]. Upon initialization of the method (i = 1) according to method step S20, the period ΔT (i) can be arbitrarily specified, especially since the device has no data regarding the uses of the elevator 1.1 at the beginning of the method. The above variable N _S (i) can therefore show arbitrarily large deviations of measured values for the frequency of use at the beginning of the method.

In the following method step S22 it is checked whether in the period .DELTA.T (i) use of the elevator takes place. If no use of the elevator takes place until the end of this period, ie before the time t _e (i), the method continues with method step S24. If a use takes place by the time t _e (i), then the time t _{B of} the use is registered and continued with method step S30.

In step S24, a command is given to perform a test of the lift 1.1 to the elevator control 15.1 (at time t _T). Subsequently, the process continues with method step S25.

In step S25 , a reaction R of the elevator 1.1 is registered.

Subsequently, in method step S26, the reaction R is compared with a desired reaction R _S. If the reaction R does not match the target response R _S , then it can be assumed that the elevator 1.1 is not available. In this case, it is possible to continue with method step S27 (path -). If the reaction R agrees with the desired response R _S , then it can be assumed that the elevator 1.1 is available. In this case, it can be assumed that the estimated value N _S (i) defined according to method step _S 21 is too large in comparison to the frequency of use in real operation. The method can be continued with method step S28 (path +).

In method step S27 , it is communicated to the monitoring center 50 that the elevator 1.1 is not available. Subsequently, the process is interrupted. If the elevator 1.1 is available again, then the method can be continued with the method step S20.

Method step S28 : According to method step 26, there is a reason for the assumption that the estimated value N _S (i) for the frequency of use is too large compared to the frequency of use of the elevator in real operation. It is assumed that a realistic estimate of the frequency of use would be smaller by a factor a <1 than the above value N _S (i). This assumption is checked in a subsequent iteration step. First, the beginning and end of a period ΔT (i + 1) following the period ΔT (i) are set with t ₀ (i + 1) ≤t≤t _e (i + 1). The beginning of the period ΔT (i + 1) is set to the time t _{T of} the test according to method step S24, the end of the period ΔT (i + 1) is determined according to the assumption that a realistic value for the frequency of use by the size " a N _S (i) "is given: t 0 (i + 1) = t T t e (i + 1) = t 0 (i + 1) + 1 / [a N S (I)] Subsequently, the method can be continued with method step S33.

In step S30 it is checked whether the time t _B of use in a time interval of duration δt at the end of the period .DELTA.T (i), ie it is checked whether the condition t _e (i) - δt ≤ t _B ≤ t _e (i) is fulfilled. If yes, then the method continues with method step S31 (path +). If not, then continue with method step S32 (path -). The duration Δt can be varied as a function of the duration of the time period ΔT (i), for example such that Δt is always smaller than a certain fraction of the difference t _e (i) -t ₀ (i). In the course of the iteration, this leads to a dynamic adaptation of the method to changed conditions, for example if the frequency of use of the elevator varies greatly over time.

In method step S31 , it is assumed that the usage frequency estimated value N _S (i) specified in method step S21 coincides with the use frequency of the elevator in real operation. This assumption is checked in the next iteration step. First, the beginning and end of a period ΔT (i + 1) following the period ΔT (i) are set with t ₀ (i + 1) ≤t≤t _e (i + 1). The beginning of the period ΔT (i + 1) is set to the time t _{B of} the last registered use according to the method step S22, the end of the period ΔT (i + 1) is determined on the assumption that a realistic value for the frequency of use by the Given size N _S (i) is: t 0 (i + 1) = t B t e (i + 1) = t 0 (i + 1) + 1 / N S (I) Subsequently, the method can be continued with method step S33.

In method step S32 , it is assumed that the estimated frequency N _S (i) for the frequency of use is too small compared to the frequency of use of the elevator in real operation. This assumption is checked in the next iteration step. First, the beginning and end of a period ΔT (i + 1) following the period ΔT (i) are set with t ₀ (i + 1) ≤t≤t _e (i + 1). The beginning of the period ΔT (i + 1) is set to the time t _{B of} the last registered use according to the method step S22, the end of the period ΔT (i + 1) is determined on the assumption that a realistic value for the frequency of use by the Size "b N _S (i)" with b> 1 is given: t 0 (i + 1) = t B t e (i + 1) = t 0 (i + 1) + 1 / [b N S (I)] Subsequently, the method can be continued with method step S33.

In method step S33 , the index i is increased by 1. Subsequently, the preceding steps are repeated from method step S21.

With a suitable choice of the parameters δt, a and b, the quantity N _S (i) converges more or less quickly against the frequency of use of the elevator in real operation in a repeated application of the method steps S21 to S33. Rapid changes in the frequency of use as a function of time can be quickly detected in the course of the process steps S21-S32. A test according to method step S24 is only initiated if an expected next use does not occur for an unexpectedly long time (method step S22).

Another advantage of the method B is that the processor P1 only has to consider a small number of data during each iteration step: During an iteration step, only three different times must be considered (start and end of the period .DELTA.T (i) according to method step S21 and the time t _B last used must Further -. be detected no statistical data for uses over long periods of time and stored, therefore less space is required (this concerns the memory M12, M13 to perform the process B, M22 and M23 - in contrast to the method A. In addition, the processor requires less computation time.

The method B can be organized so that the test according to method step S24 is not executed in a predetermined time interval, for example when the Elevator 1.1 is not or is used very little, e.g. during a night.

Method C

The elevators 1.1 and 1.2 of the elevator installation 1 can also be used as an elevator group with a Group control are operated. To realize the group control is provided that the elevator controls 15.1 and 15.2 via the communication link 18 can communicate.

As previously mentioned, the device 30.1 is for checking the availability of the elevator 1.1 and the device 30.2 for checking the availability of the elevator 1.2 for it designed to cooperate with each other. For this purpose is a communication connection 35 between the processors P1 and P2 (Fig. 2). The processors P1 and P2 can exchange data via the communication link 35.

During operation, the device 30.1 can exclusively register uses of the elevator 1.1 and determine estimated values N _S (1) and measured values N _m (1) for the frequency of use of this elevator and store them in the memories M12 and M13.

Accordingly, during operation, the device 30.2 can exclusively register uses of the elevator 1.2 and determine estimated values N _S (2) and measured values N _m (2) for the frequency of use of this elevator and store them in the memories M22 and M23.

The cooperation of the devices 30.1 and 30.2 extends the functional scope of the device 30 in case of a group control for elevators 1.1 and 1.2.

On the one hand, the estimated values N _S (1) and the measured values N _m (1) determined for the elevator 1.1 can be evaluated for the frequency of use by the device 30.1 according to one of the methods A or B. In this case, a decision as to whether to give a command for executing a test to the elevator controller 15.1 does not depend on information about the use of the elevator 1.2.

Likewise, the estimated values N _S (2) and measured values N _m (2) determined for the elevator 1.2 can be evaluated for the frequency of use by the device 30.2 according to one of the methods A or B. In this case, a decision as to whether to give a command for executing a test to the elevator controller 15.2 does not depend on information about the use of the elevator 1.1.

As a rule, all elevators of an elevator group will be according to their transport capacity evenly utilized. Elevators of the same capacity should therefore (in the statistical Funds) are used equally frequently, if they are available.

Therefore, it is proposed to check the availability of the elevator 1.1 in Within the scope of the method according to the invention also measured values for the frequency of use the elevator 1.2 in a decision to include whether a command to execute a test of the elevator 1.1 should be given. Accordingly, for review the availability of the elevator 1.2 in the context of the inventive method Also measured values for the frequency of use of the elevator 1.1 are included.

Should the measured value N _m (1) for the frequency of use of the elevator 1.1 be substantially less than the measured value N _m (2) for the frequency of use of the elevator 1.2, this may be a reason for the assumption that the elevator 1.1 is not available. This can be checked by means of the device 30 in that the device 30.1 compares the measured values N _m (1) and N _m (2) and, if the measured value N _m (1) is smaller than the measured value N _m by a predetermined amount ( 2), to the elevator controller 15.1 there is a command to carry out a test of the elevator 1.1. The same applies to a check of the availability of the elevator 1.2.

• In einer Aufzugsanlage mit mehreren Aufzügen werden Messwerte für die Benutzungsfrequenz der Aufzüge bestimmt.
• Falls der Messwert der Benutzungsfrequenz eines der Aufzüge um ein vorgegebenes Mass geringer ist als der Mittelwert der Messwerte für die Benutzungsfrequenzen der anderen Aufzüge, dann wird ein Befehl zum Ausführen mindestens eines Tests der Aufzugsanlage gegeben.
• Anschliessend wird eine Reaktion der Aufzugsanlage registriert und mit einer Soll-Reaktion verglichen.

Method C comprises - in a generalization of this approach - the steps:

• In a lift system with several elevators, measured values for the frequency of use of the elevators are determined.
• If the measurement of the frequency of use of one of the elevators is less than the average of the measurements for the frequencies of use of the other elevators by a predetermined amount, then an instruction is issued to perform at least one test of the elevator installation.
• Subsequently, a reaction of the elevator system is registered and compared with a desired response.

In a variant of this method, it is provided that the command is selected such that the target reaction comprises a state change of the one elevator. The state change can be registered automatically. The test can be, for example, a floor call and / or include a car call.

Claims (10)

Method for automatically checking the availability of an elevator installation (1) with at least one elevator (1.1, 1.2),
which method comprises the following steps: the elevator installation (1) is given at least one predetermined command for executing at least one test of the elevator installation and at least one reaction (R) of the elevator installation is registered and compared with a desired reaction (R _S ) of the elevator installation (1), the test leading to the desired reaction (R _S ) when the elevator installation is available, characterized in that a first estimated value (N _s (i, t)) for a frequency of use of the elevator is determined for a first time period and / or
determining a second estimated value (N _s (i, t + Δt)) for the frequency of use for a second time period, the second time period starting at a later time than the first time period,
in that a measured value (N _m (i, t)) for the frequency of use for the first time period is determined, the measured value (N _m (i, t)) having at least one of the estimated values (N _S (i, t), N _S ( i, t + Δt)) and the command to execute the test is given if the measured value (N _m (1, t)) is reduced by a predetermined amount (N _s (i, t) - N _min (i, t ), ΔN _S ) is less than the respective estimated value (N _S (i, t), N _S (i, t + Δt)). A method according to claim 1, characterized in that each reaction (R) and / or use of the elevator (1.1, 1.2) is registered by means of registration of an operation of a car door (6.1, 6.2) and / or a landing door (4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4, 4.5, 4.6) and / or a registration of a change of a state of a drive (10.1, 10.2) of the elevator installation and / or a registration of an operation of a brake and / or a registration of signals for controlling components of the elevator installation and / or a detection of a position of a car (5.1, 5.2) of the elevator (1.1, 1.2). Method according to one of claims 1 or 2, characterized in that a duration of a time interval predetermined and a number of uses of the elevator, which are registered during the time interval is determined, or that a number of uses of the elevator predetermined and a duration of a time interval, in which these uses are registered is determined, wherein the measured value is calculated from the respective number and the respective duration. Method according to one of claims 1-3, characterized in that
the first estimated value (N _S (i, t)) and the measured value (N _m (i, t)) are determined for the first time period (ΔT (i)) and the second estimated value (N _S (i + 1, t) ) is set to a value for the second period (ΔT (i + 1)) (i) is equal to the first estimate if the first estimate and the measurement differ by no more than a predetermined amount, or (ii) is less than the first estimate if the reading is less than the first estimate or more than the predetermined amount (iii) greater than the first estimate if the reading is greater than the first estimate by more than the predetermined amount. Method according to one of claims 1-4, characterized in that
in that the instruction for carrying out at least one test of the elevator installation comprises a car call, a landing call and / or a drive command. Method according to one of claims 1-5, characterized in that the desired reaction (R _S ) comprises: Opening and closing a landing door (4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4, 4.5, 4.6) and / or Opening and closing a car door (6.1, 6.2) and / or a journey of a car (5.1, 5.2) from a predetermined floor to another predetermined floor. Method according to one of claims 1-6, characterized in that if the reaction (R) of the elevator system with the target reaction (R _S ) does not match - a predetermined information is communicated, for example, to a monitoring center (50). Device (30, 30.1, 30.2) for automatically checking the availability of an elevator installation (1) with an elevator control (15.1, 15.2) for at least one elevator (1.1, 1.2), which device comprises: a command generator (P1, P2) with which a predetermined command for executing at least one test of the elevator installation can be given to the elevator control (15.1, 15.2), wherein the test is selected so that when the elevator installation is available, a desired reaction (R _S ) of the elevator installation can be registered, and
a registration device (21.x, 22.1, 24.1, 25.1, 26.1, 27.1, 28.1) for registering a reaction (R) following the command of the elevator installation (1) and
a device for comparing the reaction (R) with the desired reaction (R _S ),
characterized in that
the device comprises:
a device (P1, M12, P2, M22) for determining a first estimated value (N _S (i, t)) for a frequency of use of the elevator for a first time period and / or for determining a second estimated value (N _S (i, t + Δt)) for the frequency of use for a second period,
a measuring device (P1, M13, P2, M23) for determining a measured value (N _m (i, t)) for the frequency of use for the first period, and
a controller (M11, M21) for controlling the commander (P1, P2) such that the command is given when the measured value (N _m (i, t)) is reduced by a predetermined amount (N _S (i, t) -N) _min (i, t), ΔN _S ) is less than one of the estimates (N _s (i, t), N _s (i, t + Δt)). Apparatus according to claim 8, characterized in that
the registration device and / or the measuring device comprises: a device (22.1, 22.2, 21.1, 21.2, 21.3, 21.4, 21.5, 21.6) for registering an actuation of a car door (6.1) and / or a landing door (4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4, 4.5, 4.6) and / or means (25.1, 25.2) for registering a change in a state of a drive (10.1, 10.2) of the elevator installation and / or means (26.1, 26.2) for registering operation of a brake and / or means (27.1, 27.2) for registering signals for controlling components of the elevator installation and / or means (24.1, 24.2) for detecting a position of a car of the elevator. Device according to one of claims 8 - 9, characterized in that a communication link (43) is provided for transmitting a predetermined information to a monitoring center (50) in the event that the reaction does not match the target response.

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