WO2021240046A1

WO2021240046A1 - People mover and people mover arrangement

Info

Publication number: WO2021240046A1
Application number: PCT/FI2020/050355
Authority: WO
Inventors: Nithil Natarajan; Giovanni Hawkins; Andrea Zotti; Benjamin Ekström; Deniss SMIRNOV
Original assignee: Kone Corporation
Priority date: 2020-05-27
Filing date: 2020-05-27
Publication date: 2021-12-02

Abstract

The invention relates to a people mover (1), comprising an endless conveying band (2); and a control system (5,100;5',100) comprising an entrance zone signaling arrangement (5;5'), in particular for presenting in the entrance zone of the people mover first signals (S1) and/or second signals; the control system (5,100;5',100), in particular said controller thereof, being configured to present periodically in the entrance zone (E) of the people mover (1) with said entrance zone signaling arrangement (5) at a preset signal frequency first signals (S1; S1') in particular for indicating to people periods when entrance to the people mover is allowed or at a preset signal frequency second signals (S2;S2') in particular for indicating to people periods when entrance to the people mover (1) is banned, or alternatingly both of said first and second signals (S1,S2; S1',S2'). The invention also relates to a new people mover arrangement (A) comprising a people mover (1).

Description

PEOPLE MOVER AND PEOPLE MOVER ARRANGEMENT

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The invention relates to a people mover and a people mover arrangement, where the people mover is preferably an escalator, an autowalk or a moving ramp.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Escalators, auto walks and moving ramps are people movers, each of which typically comprises an endless band of successively positioned conveying elements, such as steps or pallets for supporting the load to be transported, i.e. a person. The conveying element typically comprises a tread member with a tread surface on which a person can stand. The endless conveying band rotates in use and a passenger can step from a walking platform of the people mover on the portion, e.g. a conveying member, that emerges from below a walking platform.

[0003] When people flow towards a people mover, and while they are being moved by a people mover, they may occasionally be very close to each other. In prior art, the people flowing towards a people mover have been guided into a queue or queues so as to facilitate swift and high flow of people to the people mover. A goal has been that the people are packed close to each other the time of transport by the people mover. Dense positioning of people has been a goal since it increases use of capacity of the people mover and thereby the people flow.

[0004] It has been noticed that positioning of people close to each other makes them vulnerable to contagious diseases. For this reason, there is a need for a solution that could minimize exposure of individuals during their passage to and/or with a people mover.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The object of the invention is to introduce a new people mover and a people mover arrangement improved in terms safety of its users. An object is to introduce a solution by which one or more of the above defined problems of prior art and/or problems discussed or implied elsewhere in the description can be solved. An object is particularly to introduce a solution which can simply yet efficiently be used for controlling distance of people in a people mover and/or in its proximity, particularly so that exposure of individuals to contagious diseases during their passage to and/or with a people mover can be reduced while still allowing efficient people flow.

[0006] It is brought forward a new people mover, comprising an endless conveying band; and a control system. The control system comprises an entrance zone signaling arrangement, in particular for presenting in the entrance zone of the people mover first signals and/or second signals. The control system, in particular a controller thereof for instance, is configured to present periodically in the entrance zone of the people mover with said entrance zone signaling arrangement at a preset signal frequency first signals, in particular for indicating to people periods when entrance to the people mover is allowed or at a preset signal frequency second signals, in particular for indicating to people periods when entrance to the people mover is banned, or alternatingly both of said first and second signals.

[0007] With this solution one or more of the above-mentioned objects can be achieved.

[0008] Preferable further details of the people mover are introduced in the following, which further details can be combined with the people mover individually or in any combination.

[0009] In a preferred embodiment, the endless conveying band comprises plurality of conveying elements, such as steps or pallets, each of the conveying elements comprising a tread member with a tread surface on which a person can stand.

[0010] In a preferred embodiment, the first and second signal are different from each other

[0011] In a preferred embodiment, each said signal is a light signal. [0012] In a preferred embodiment, each said signal is a light signal in the form of a light beam passing across a passage to the people mover. The light beam then preferably passes across a passage to the people mover in horizontal direction at a vertical distance from a walking surface, the distance preferably being between 0.3 and 1.5 meters.

[0013] In a preferred embodiment, each said signal is a light signal in the form of a linear light barrier emitted from a light strip provided on the walking platform of the people mover and extending across a passage to the people mover, wherein the light signals are different from each other.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment, the first signal is a light signal of a first color, preferably green, and the second signal is a light signal of a second color, preferably red.

[0015] In a preferred embodiment, the control system comprises a controller preferably comprising one or more microprocessors. The controller is preferably, although not necessarily configured to control rotation of a motor of the people mover and thereby running speed of the people mover.

[0016] In a preferred embodiment, the signal frequency of the first and second signals is the same.

[0017] In a preferred embodiment, the control system, in particular a controller thereof, is configured to increase the signal frequency when running speed of the conveying band is increased and to reduce the signal frequency when running speed of the conveying band is reduced.

[0018] In a preferred embodiment, the control system, in particular a controller thereof, is configured to obtain a frequency value which is dependent of running speed setting of the conveying band, and to control the signal frequency based on said frequency value. Said frequency value can be a frequency value calculated from prevailing running speed setting, for example. Alternatively, said frequency value can be a frequency value on which the running speed of the conveying band is dependent, e.g. a frequency setting by which rotation of the motor is controlled.

[0019] In a preferred embodiment, the control system, in particular a controller thereof, is configured to synchronize the signal frequency with another frequency of the people mover which is dependent of running speed setting of the conveying band, such as the conveyor frequency in which every second, third, fourth or fifth conveying element, such as step, emerges from below a walking platform of the people mover, in particular from below the comb plate of the people mover. This way presenting of the signals can be synchronized simply with suitable moments for entering the people mover.

[0020] In a preferred embodiment, the control system, in particular a controller thereof, is configured to present each said signal for a period having a starting moment and an end moment.

[0021] In a preferred embodiment, the control system, in particular a controller thereof, is configured to present periodically in the entrance zone of the people mover with said entrance zone signaling arrangement at a preset signal frequency both of said first and second signals alternatingly, and the duration of each first signal is shorter than the duration of each second signal.

[0022] In a preferred embodiment, the control system, in particular a controller thereof, is configured to present second signals during gaps, preferably only during gaps, between first signals and/or vice versa.

[0023] In a preferred embodiment, the signaling arrangement comprises one or more light sources and each said first and/or second signal is a light signal. Preferably, said one or more light sources blink at the preset signal frequency during operation of the people mover.

[0024] In a preferred embodiment, the signal frequency is constant in particular when the running speed of the band of the people mover is constant. [0025] In a preferred embodiment, conveying elements are arranged to emerge during operation of the people mover from below a walking platform of the people mover, in particular from below a comb plate, and the aforementioned signal frequency is equal to the conveyor frequency in which every second, third, fourth or fifth conveying element, such as step, emerges from below a walking platform of the people mover, in particular from below the comb plate of the people mover. This way presenting of the signals can be synchronized simply with suitable moments for entering the people mover.

[0026] In a preferred embodiment, the people mover comprises a comb plate from below conveying elements, such as steps, emerge during use of the people mover, and the frequency is equal to the frequency in which every second, third, fourth or fifth conveying element, such as step, emerges from below the comb plate of the people mover. This way presenting of the signals can be synchronized simply with suitable moments for entering the people mover.

[0027] In a preferred embodiment, the signal frequency is equal to V/(n*L), wherein V is the running speed of the band (m/s], and L is the length of the step tread plate (m) and n is a number in the range 2-10, most preferably 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 , 7, 8, 9 or 10. This way presenting of the signals can be synchronized simply with suitable moments for entering the people mover.

[0028] In a preferred embodiment, the people mover is an escalator, an autowalk or a moving ramp.

[0029] In a preferred embodiment, the control system, in particular said controller thereof, is preferably although not necessarily configured to change the presenting of said signals based on prevailing traffic situation.

[0030] In a preferred embodiment, the control system, in particular said controller thereof, is configured to cease presenting periodically said first and/or second signals, and possibly to start continuously presenting one of the signals when people are not detected or have not been detected for a period in one or more locations. Said one or more locations preferably include one or more of the following locations: in a lobby zone of the people mover, in the entrance zone of the people mover, on a section of the endless conveying band.

[0031] In a preferred embodiment, the control system, in particular said controller thereof, is configured to start again presenting periodically said first and/or second signals when people is/are detected in one or more of said locations.

[0032] In a preferred embodiment, the control system, in particular said controller thereof, is configured to receive detection signals of one or more detectors for detecting people in one or more locations. These detection signals can include detection signals of one or more detectors for detecting people in the lobby zone and/or detection signals of one or more detectors for detecting people in the entrance zone; and/or detection signals of one or more detectors for detecting people on a section of the endless conveying band.

[0033] It is also brought forward a new people mover arrangement, comprising a people mover; a lobby zone located in proximity of an entrance zone of the people mover; one or more detectors for detecting people in the lobby zone; and a lobby zone signaling arrangement; and a controller configured to determine whether a distance between detected people in the lobby zone is below a threshold and to present in the lobby zone with said lobby zone signaling arrangement instruction signals when a distance between detected people in the lobby zone is below a threshold.

[0034] With this solution one or more of the above-mentioned objects can be achieved.

[0035] Preferable further details of the people mover arrangement have been described earlier above, and/or are introduced in the following, which further details can be combined with the people mover arrangement individually or in any combination.

[0036] In a preferred embodiment, the people mover is as defined anywhere above and/or in any of the claims of this application. The people mover arrangement is in this context particularly advantageous since hereby the distances can be controlled from the lobby zone up to the people mover optimally without harmfully short distances, thereby optimizing a large process.

[0037] In a preferred embodiment, the one or more detectors comprise one or more proximity sensors and/or one or more cameras. Preferably, in the first alternative there are plurality of proximity sensors.

[0038] In a preferred embodiment, the lobby zone signaling arrangement comprises a display for presenting visual third signal, which is a visual signal and/or a speaker for presenting a fourth signal, which a voice signal.

[0039] In a preferred embodiment, the people mover arrangement comprising visual instructions provided on the floor of the lobby zone.

[0040] In a preferred embodiment, the controller of the people mover arrangement preferably comprises one or more microprocessors.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0041] In the following, the present invention will be described in more detail by way of example and with reference to the attached drawings, in which

Figures 1 and 2 illustrate a people mover according to a first embodiment in different states.

Figures 3 and 4 illustrate a people mover according to a second embodiment in different states.

Figure 5 illustrates as a block diagram preferred details of the control system and the connections of parts thereof.

Figure 6 illustrates

Figure 6a illustrates the first signal as function of time.

Figure 6b illustrates the second signal as function of time.

Figure 6c illustrates a conveyor frequency.

Figure 7 illustrates a people mover arrangement according to an embodiment comprising detectors and a lobby zone signaling arrangement and a people mover. Figure 8 illustrates as a block diagram preferred details of an embodiment of a lobby zone signaling arrangement and the connections of parts thereof.

The foregoing aspects, features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the drawings and the detailed description related thereto.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0042] Figures 1 and 2 illustrate each a people mover 1 comprising an endless conveying band 2, comprising plurality of conveying elements 2, in particular steps, each of the conveying elements 2 comprising a tread member 3 with a tread surface 3a on which a person can stand. The conveying elements 2 are connected successively so that they together form an endless conveying band 2. The conveying elements 2 are connected together e.g. by a chain to which the conveying elements 2 are engaged. The arrow shows the direction of movement of the conveying elements 2. The people mover 1 preferably comprises a motor M (not showed in Figures 1 or 2) for moving the endless conveying band 2. The people mover illustrated is in particular an escalator.

[0043] The people movers 1 of Figure 1 and 2 each moreover comprises a control system 5,100;5’,100 as illustrated in Figure 5 comprising an entrance zone signaling arrangement 5; 5’ for presenting in the entrance zone E of the people mover first signals S1;S1 and second signals S2;S2. The control system 5,100;5’,100 moreover comprises a controller 100 for controlling said signaling arrangement 5; 5’.

[0044] The control system 5,100;5’,100, in particular said controller 100, is configured to present periodically in the entrance zone E of the people mover 1 with said entrance zone signaling arrangement 5; 5’ at a preset signal frequency (also referred to as signal frequency] first signals S1;S1’ in particular for indicating to people periods when entrance to the people mover is allowed and at a preset signal frequency second signals S2;S2’ in particular for indicating to people periods when entrance to the people mover 1 is banned. The control system 5,100;5’,100, in particular said controller 100, is configured to present periodically in the entrance zone E of the people mover 1 with said entrance zone signaling arrangement 5 at a preset signal frequency both of said first and second signals S1,S2;S1’,S2’ alternatingly. The first and second signals S1,S2;S1’,S2’ are different from each other.

[0045] In said alternating the first signals S1;S1’ are presented in particular during gaps between successive second signals and second signals S2;S2’ are presented during gaps between successive first signals S1;S1’.

[0046] In the preferred embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, each said first and second signal S1,S2 is a light signal. Figure 1 illustrates a situation when a first signal SI is presented and Figure 2 illustrates a situation when a second signal S2 is presented. [0047] In the preferred embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, each said signal S1,S2 is a light signal in the form of a light beam passing across a passage to the people mover 1. Thus, the light signals form a light beam gate the open state of which is presented by light signal SI in the form of a light beam passing across a passage to the people mover 1 and the closed state of which is presented by light signal S2 in the form of a light beam passing across a passage to the people mover 1, wherein the light signals SI and S2 are different from each other.

[0048] In the preferred embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, the first signal SI is a light signal of a first color, preferably green, and the second signal S2 is a light signal of a second color, preferably red. [0049] The signaling arrangement 5 comprises a light source 5a for presenting the first signal SI and a light source 5b for presenting the second signal S2. However, having plurality of light sources is not necessary as it is possible to achieve different light signals with only one light source, e.g. by adjusting wave length of the light emitted by a single light source to a first length when presenting a first signal and to a second length when presenting a second signal. The light of each signal S1,S2 can be of any visible kind. The light of each signal S1,S2 can be laser light, for example.

[0050] In use, the each signal S1,S2 is a light signal blinking with the signal frequency. [0051] In the preferred embodiment illustrated in Figures 3 and 4, each said signal S1’,S2’ is a light signal in the form of a linear light barrier emitted from a light strip 5a’, 5b’ of the walking platform 6 of the people mover 1 and extending across a passage to the people mover 1, wherein the light signals SI’ and S2’ are different from each other.

[0052] In the preferred embodiment illustrated in Figures 3 and 4, the first signal SI’ is a light signal of a first color, preferably green, and the second signal S2’ is a light signal of a second color, preferably red.

[0053] The signaling arrangement 5’ comprises a light source 5a’ for presenting the first signal SI’ and a light source 5b’ for presenting the second signal S2’. However, having plurality of light sources is not necessary as it is possible to achieve different light signals with only one light source, e.g. by adjusting wave length of the light emitted by a single light source to a first length when presenting a first signal and to a second length when presenting a second signal. The light of each signal S1’,S2’ can be of any visible kind.

[0054] In use, the each signal S1’,S2’ is a light signal blinking with the signal frequency.

[0055] Figure 6a illustrates the signal S1;S1’ as function of time, Figure 6b illustrates the signal S2;S2’ as function of time, and Figure 6c illustrates frequency (also referred to as a "conveyor frequency"] in which successive conveying elements reach a predetermined position such as preferably the frequency in which successive conveying elements emerge during operation of the people mover from below a walking platform 6 of the people mover 1. The Figures 6a-6c show also the preferred timing between signals SI and S2; SI’ and S2’, as well as with the frequency in which the successive conveying elements reach a predetermined position.

[0056] The signal frequency of the first and second signals S1,S2;S1,S2 is the same. Hereby, the rhythm and order in which the first and second signals SI; SI’ and S2;S2’ are presented will not change. [0057] In general, the signal frequency of first signals S1;S1’ is the number of occurrences of first signals S1;S1’ per time unit. Starts the first signals S1;S1’ at their starting moments ml of the signal can be more particularly the occurrences to be counted when determining the signal frequency of first signals S1;S1’. In general, the signal frequency of second signals S2;S2’ is the number of occurrences of second signals S2;S2’ per time unit. Starts the second signals S2;S2’ at their starting moments m3 of the signal can be more particularly the occurrences to be counted when determining the signal frequency of second signals S2;S2’.

[0058] The controller 100 preferably comprises one or more microprocessors.

The controller 100 can be responsible for plurality of escalator functions, but this is not necessary. Preferably, the controller 100 is configured to control rotation of a motor M of the people mover and thereby running speed of the people mover 1. A control software may be run by the controller 100.

[0059] The control system 5,100;5’,100, in particular said controller 100, is configured to increase the signal frequency when running speed of the conveying band 2 is increased and to reduce the signal frequency when running speed of the conveying band 2 is reduced. This makes it possible to allow people to enter the people mover 1 with a higher frequency when the speed of the band 2 is high. This makes it possible to maximize capacity of the people mover while at the same time ensuring distance between people. The signal frequency is preferably constant, when the running speed of the band 2 of the people mover 1 is constant. If or when the running speed is changed to a new level wherein it is kept constant, the signal frequency can be also changed to a new level by the controller wherein it is kept constant.

[0060] The control system 5,100;5’,100, in particular a controller thereof, is configured to synchronize the signal frequency with another frequency of the people mover which is dependent of running speed setting of the conveying band 2, such as the conveyor frequency in which every second, third, fourth or fifth conveying element 3, such as step, emerges from below a walking platform of the people mover, in particular from below the comb plate of the people mover. [0061] Preferably, the control system 5,100;5’,100, in particular said controller 100, is configured to obtain a frequency value which is dependent of running speed setting of the conveying band 2, and to control the signal frequency based on said frequency value. Said frequency value can be a frequency value calculated from prevailing running speed setting, for example. Alternatively, said frequency value can be a frequency value on which the running speed of the conveying band 2 is dependent, e.g. a frequency setting by which rotation of the motor M is controlled.

[0062] Preferably, the control system 5,100; 5’, 100, in particular said controller 100 thereof, is configured to present each said signal S1,S2 for a period P1,P2 having a starting moment ml;m3 and an end moment m2;m4. Preferably, the control system 5,100;5’,100, in particular said controller 100 thereof, is configured to cease presenting said signal S1;S1’ after the period PI. Preferably, the control system 5,100;5’,100, in particular said controller 100 thereof, is configured to cease presenting said signal S2;S2’ after the period P2. These aspects are illustrated in Figure 6.

[0063] Preferably, the control system 5,100;5’,100, in particular the controller 100 thereof, is configured to present periodically in the entrance zone E of the people mover 1 with said entrance zone signaling arrangement 5,5’ at a preset signal frequency both of said first and second signals S1,S2;S1,S2 alternatingly, and the duration of each first signal S1;S1’ is shorter than the duration of each second signal S2;S2’.

[0064] The control system 5,100;5’,100, in particular said controller 100, is configured to present second signals S2;S2 during gaps between first signals S1;S1’ and vice versa. Most the control system 5,100;5’,100, in particular said controller 100, is configured to present second signals S2;S2’ only during gaps between first signals S1;S1' and vice versa ,as it is the case in the embodiment illustrated in Figure 6.

[0065] Preferably, as illustrated in Figure 6c, the conveying elements 3 are arranged to emerge during operation of the people mover 1 from below a walking platform 6 of the people mover 1, in particular from below a comb plate c comprised in the walking platform 6, and the aforementioned signal frequency is equal to the conveyor frequency in which every second, third, fourth or fifth conveying element 3, such as step, emerges from below a walking platform 6 of the people mover, in particular from below the comb plate of the people mover. Particularly, preferably the people mover 1 comprises a comb plate c, from below of which conveying elements 3, such as steps, emerge during use of the people mover 1, and the signal frequency is equal to the frequency in which every second, third, fourth or fifth conveying element 3 emerges from below the comb plate c of the people mover 1.

[0066] Preferably, the signal frequency is equal to V/(n*L), wherein V is the running speed of the band 2 (m/s), and L is the length of the step tread plate m and n is a number in the range 2-10, most preferably 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 , 7, 8, 9 or 10.

[0067] Figure 7 illustrates an embodiment of a people mover arrangement A, comprising a people mover 1, which is preferably (although not necessarily) as described anywhere above referring to Figures 1-6.

[0068] The people mover arrangement A comprises a lobby zone L located in proximity of an entrance zone E of the people mover 1; and one or more detectors 7,8 for detecting people in the lobby zone L; and a lobby zone signaling arrangement 10a,10b;a controller 11 configured to determine whether a distance between people detected, in particular by said one or more detectors 7,8, in the lobby zone L is below a threshold; and to present in the lobby zone L with said lobby zone signaling arrangement 10a, 10b instruction signals S3;S4 when a distance between people detected in the lobby zone L is below a threshold. Hereby, people dwelling in the lobby, e.g. waiting in line for their turn to enter a people mover 1, can be instructed according to their actual distance. This kind of ability to instruct is particularly advantageous in context where the people mover is as described anywhere above referring to Figures 1-6, because this kind of people mover 1 in operation easily gathers people in the lobby due to delimitations in density and capacity that the access control causes, and should the distance between people in the lobby zone L, e.g. in the waiting queue, be substantially increased, the advantages of controlled distances gained by the access control might be eliminated in the uncontrolled distances in the lobby zone L. However, at least part of the advantages of the ability to control distance of people in the lobby zone L can be achieved also if the people mover 1 is not provided with an access control (entrance zone signaling arrangement) as described above referring to Figures 1-6.

[0069] The controller 11 preferably comprises one or more microprocessors. It may be in the form of a computer, for example.

[0070] As illustrated in Figure 7, the one or more detectors 7,8 preferably comprise one or more proximity sensors 7a;7b and/or one or more cameras 8.

[0071] There may be plurality of proximity sensors 7a, 7b since thus they can simply be used for detection allowing determination of distance between people also when their relative speed is not known. However, it may be possible to achieve detection of distance also with one proximity sensor. The controller 11 can be configured to process signal data of the proximity sensor arrangement 7, e.g. by analyzing the signal data to determine distances between people.

[0072] The camera 8 may be any known camera device. The controller 11 can be configured to process data, in particular videos and/or images, produced by the camera 8, e.g. by analyzing the data with image recognition software configured to detect people from the data. The analyzing preferably moreover comprises determining distances between people.

[0073] The lobby zone signaling arrangement 10a, 10b preferably comprises a display 10a for presenting visual third signal S3, which is a visual signal and/or a speaker 10b for presenting a fourth signal S4, which a voice signal. Thus, the people can be instructed to increase the distance when the distance has become too short.

[0074] The arrangement preferably moreover comprises visual instructions 9 e.g. provided on the floor of the lobby zone L. Thus, the people may be informed how far they should position relative to other people and thus the detection is simplified due to not becoming overloaded.

[0075] As mentioned, the people mover comprised in the people mover arrangement A is preferably as described anywhere above referring to Figures 1-6. The people mover 1 could then be an escalator, an autowalk or a moving ramp, for example as illustrated in Figures 1-4 and 7. However, in general, the people mover of the arrangement could as a further alternative be some other kind of people mover such as an elevator, for instance.

[0076] In general, the control system 5,100;5’,100, in particular said controller thereof, is preferably although not necessarily configured to change the presenting of said signals S1,S2; S1’,S2’ based on prevailing traffic situation. Preferred alternatives for implementation of this is described in the following.

[0077] The control system 5,100;5’,100, in particular said controller thereof, is preferably although not necessarily configured to cease presenting periodically said first and/or second signals S1,S2; S1’,S2’, and possibly to start continuously presenting one of the signals S1,S2; S1’,S2’ when people are not detected or have not been detected for a period in one or more locations. Said one or more locations can include one or more of the following locations: in a lobby zone L of the people mover, in the entrance zone E of the people mover, on a section of the endless conveying band 2.

[0078] Hereby, the control system can react to reduction of traffic in one or more critical locations. The control system can utilize cease of people presence in any one of said locations or in plurality of said locations as the criteria for the ceasing of said periodical signaling and/or starting of said continuous signaling.

[0079] In a preferred embodiment, the control system, in particular said controller thereof, is configured to start again presenting periodically said first and/or second signals in response to detecting people in one or more of said locations.

[0080] In one embodiment, the control system 5,100; 5’, 100, in particular said controller thereof, is preferably although not necessarily configured to cease presenting periodically said first and/or second signals S1,S2; S1’,S2’ or to start continuously presenting one of the signals first and second signals S1,S2; S1’,S2’ when people are not detected or have not been detected for a period in a lobby zone L of the people mover nor in the entrance zone E of the people mover. [0081] In one embodiment, the control system 5,100;5’,100, in particular said controller thereof, is preferably although not necessarily configured to cease presenting periodically said first and/or second signals S1,S2; S1’,S2’ or to start continuously presenting one of the signals first and second signals S1,S2; S1’,S2’ when people are not detected or have not been detected for a period on a section of the endless conveying band 2. This can be implemented for example using load sensors incorporated in the conveying elements or external detectors (not shown) detecting people on a section of the endless conveying band 2. Said section is preferably the end section of the band 2 closest to the entrance zone E.

[0082] In the aforementioned ceasing of first and/or second signals S1,S2;

S1’,S2’ preferably presenting of each of the signals is ceased. Thus, periodical presentation of each of the signals S1,S2; S1’,S2’ that is/are being presented is ceased. Possibly one of the signals is started to be presented in a continuous manner. For example, the control system 5,100;5’,100, in particular said controller thereof can start to present the first signal, e.g. a green light signal, continuously. Hereby, it is indicated to distant people that the people mover is in operation and available.

[0083] For facilitating the aforementioned reacting to reduction of traffic in one or more critical locations, the control system 5,100;5’,100, in particular said controller thereof, is preferably configured to receive detection signals of one or more detectors 7,8 for detecting people in one or more locations. These detection signals can include detection signals of one or more detectors 7,8 for detecting people in the lobby zone L and/or detection signals of one or more detectors for detecting people in the entrance zone E and/or detection signals of one or more detectors for detecting people on a section of the endless conveying band 2.

[0084] In general, preferably, each said first and second signal S1,S2 is a light signal, although in general each signal could be alternatively an audio signal or a physical signal presented by movable mechanical signaling means (e.g. a gate).

[0085] Generally preferably the people mover 1 is an escalator, an autowalk or a moving ramp. In the first case, the conveying elements 2 are preferably steps, and in the second and third cases, the conveying elements 2 are preferably pallets. However, in general at least part of the advantages of the invention could be achieved also if the endless conveying band is an endless belt or equivalent.

[0086] Generally, it is preferable that the control system 5,100;5’,100, in particular said controller thereof, is configured to present periodically in the entrance zone E of the people mover 1 with said entrance zone signaling arrangement 5 at a preset signal frequency both said first signals SI; SI’ and said second signals S2;S2’ alternatingly, as described above e.g. referring to Figures 1-6. However, presenting both said signals is not necessary for achieving at least part of the advantages of the invention, since by presenting only either one of the signals may be sufficient for telling the people the periods in which they are allowed to enter the people mover.

[0087] It is to be understood that the above description and the accompanying

Figures are only intended to teach the best way known to the inventors to make and use the invention. It will be apparent to a person skilled in the art that the inventive concept can be implemented in various ways. The above-described embodiments of the invention may thus be modified or varied, without departing from the invention, as appreciated by those skilled in the art in light of the above teachings. It is therefore to be understood that the invention and its embodiments are not limited to the examples described above but may vary within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A people mover (1), comprising an endless conveying band (2); and a control system (5,100;5’,100) comprising an entrance zone signaling arrangement (5; 5’), in particular for presenting in the entrance zone of the people mover first signals (S1;S1’) and/or second signals (S2;S2’); wherein the control system (5,100;5’,100), in particular a controller (100) thereof, is configured to present periodically in the entrance zone (E) of the people mover (1) with said entrance zone signaling arrangement (5; 5’) at a preset signal frequency first signals (SI; SI’) in particular for indicating to people periods when entrance to the people mover (1) is allowed or at a preset signal frequency second signals (S2;S2’) in particular for indicating to people periods when entrance to the people mover (1) is banned, or alternatingly both of said first and second signals (S1,S2; S1',S2').

2. A people mover according to claim 1, wherein each said signal (S1,S2; S1’,S2’) is a light signal.

3. A people mover according to any of the preceding claims, wherein each said signal (S1,S2) is a light signal in the form of a light beam passing across a passage to the people mover (1).

4. A people mover according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first signal (S1;S1’) is a light signal of a first color, preferably green, and the second signal (S2;S2’) is a light signal of a second color, preferably red.

5. A people mover according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the control system (5,100;5’,100), in particular a controller (100) thereof, is configured to increase the signal frequency when running speed of the conveying band (2) is increased and to reduce the signal frequency when running speed of the conveying band (2) is reduced.

6. A people mover according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the control system (5,100;5’,100), in particular a controller (100) thereof, is configured to obtain a frequency value which is dependent of running speed setting of the conveying band (2), and to control the signal frequency based on said frequency value.

7. A people mover according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the control system (5,100;5’,100), in particular a controller (100) thereof, is configured to synchronize the signal frequency with another frequency of the people mover (1) which is dependent of running speed setting of the conveying band (2), such as the conveyor frequency in which every second, third, fourth or fifth conveying element (3), such as step, emerges from below a walking platform (6) of the people mover (1), in particular from below a comb plate of the people mover (1).

8. A people mover according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the control system (5,100;5’,100), in particular a controller (100) thereof, is configured to present each said signal (S1,S2; S1’,S2’) for a period (P1,P2) having a starting moment (ml;m3) and an end moment (m2;m4).

9. A people mover according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the control system (5,100;5’,100), in particular a controller (100) thereof, is configured to present periodically in the entrance zone (E) of the people mover (1) with said entrance zone signaling arrangement (5; 5’) at a preset signal frequency both of said first and second signals (S1,S2; S1’,S2’) alternatingly, and the duration of each first signal (S1;S1’) is shorter than the duration of each second signal (S2;S2’).

10. A people mover according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the control system (5,100;5’,100), in particular a controller (100) thereof, is configured to present second signals (S2;S2’) during gaps, preferably only during gaps, between first signals (S1;S1’) and/or vice versa.

11. A people mover according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the signaling arrangement (5; 5’) comprises one or more light sources (5a, 5b; 5a’, 5b’) and each said first and/or second signal is a light signal.

12. A people mover according to any of the preceding claims, wherein conveying elements (3) are arranged to emerge during operation of the people mover (1) from below a walking platform (6) of the people mover (1), in particular from below a comb plate (c) of the walking platform (6), and the aforementioned signal frequency is equal to a conveyor frequency in which every second, third, fourth or fifth conveying element (3), such as step, emerges from below a walking platform (6) of the people mover (1), in particular from below the comb plate (c) of the walking platform (6).

13. A people mover according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the signal frequency is equal to V/(n*L), wherein V is the running speed of the band (m/s), and L is the length of the step tread plate (m) and n is a number in the range 2-10, most preferably 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 , 7, 8, 9 or 10.

14. A people mover according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first and second signal (S1,S2; S1’,S2’) are different from each other, in particular in one or more ways, such as in color and/or contrast for example.

15. A people mover according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the people mover (1) is an escalator, an autowalk or a moving ramp.

16. A people mover according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the control system (5,100;5’,100), in particular a controller (100) thereof, is configured to cease presenting periodically said first and/or second signals (S1,S2; S1’,S2’), and possibly to start continuously presenting one of the signals (SI or S2;S1’ or S2’) when people are not detected or have not been detected for a period in one or more locations, said one or more locations preferably including one or more of the following locations: in a lobby zone (L) of the people mover (1); in the entrance zone (E) of the people mover (1); on a section of the endless conveying band (2).

17. A people mover according to claim 16, wherein the control system (5,100;5’,100), in particular a controller (100) thereof, is configured to start again presenting periodically said first and/or second signals (S1,S2; S1’,S2’) when people is/are detected in one or more of said locations.

18. A people mover arrangement (A), comprising a people mover (1); a lobby zone (L) located in proximity of an entrance zone (E) of the people mover (1); one or more detectors (7,8) for detecting people in the lobby zone

(L); a lobby zone signaling arrangement (10a, 10b); a controller (11) configured to determine whether a distance between detected people in the lobby zone (L) is below a threshold; and to present in the lobby zone (L) with said lobby zone signaling arrangement (10a, 10b) instruction signals (S3;S4) when a distance between detected people in the lobby zone (L) is below a threshold.

19. A people mover arrangement (A) according to claim 18, wherein the people mover (1) is as defined in any of the preceding claims 1-17.

20. A people mover arrangement (A) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more detectors (7,8) comprise one or more proximity sensors (7a;7b) and/or one or more cameras (8).

21. A people mover arrangement (A) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the lobby zone signaling arrangement (10a, 10b) comprises a display (10a) for presenting visual third signal (S3), which is a visual signal and/or a speaker (10b) for presenting a fourth signal (S4), which a voice signal.

22. A people mover arrangement (A) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the peole mover arrangement (A) comprises visual instructions (9) provided on the floor of the lobby zone (L).