Electronic safety system for elevators having a dual redundant safety bus

US6173814A · kind A · utility

Assignee

• OTIS ELEVATOR COMPANY · US

Inventors

• Peter Herkel · Berlin, DE
• Hans-Kilian Spielbauer · Berlin, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Mar 4, 1999
• Grant date: Jan 16, 2001
• Expiry date: Mar 4, 2019

Classification

• Technology area (CPC H): Electricity
• CPC primary: H04L67/125
• WIPO field: Handling
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, an electronic safety system for elevators for preventing unsafe elevator operation has a central controller which monitors a variety of sensors, contacts, and switches over an electronic safety bus. A plurality of bus nodes are distributed throughout the elevator system and are in constant communication with the central controller over the safety bus. The bus nodes interface with sensors, switches, contacts, detectors, components, and other safety equipment of the elevator system at each location and provide status information back to the controller. The controller consists of a microprocessor board with an input/output port in communication with the safety bus and bus nodes. Upon sensing an unsafe condition, the controller sends control signals to an elevator control system and a drive and brake system to arrest the elevator car in a safe manner.