Assessment and improvement of elevator controllers for energy efficiency

Abstract

In recent years, several measures are being taken to conserve power with a goal towards energy savings without degradation in performance. In this paper we develop an algorithm to achieve notable energy savings in elevator systems. Operation of an elevator can be classified into two modes-running mode and stand-by mode. We design an energy-saving elevator system capable of manipulating its speed in running mode. Speed is varied based on the load carried and acceleration based on the number of floors to travel. Also choosing an appropriate range of speed is investigated. The total travel time of the system is to be considered for enhancing its overall performance. The algorithm is tested on varied traffic patterns: 1) Non-peak hours and 2) Peak hours. The final results are compared with constant speed elevators and tabulated. This method produces a 12.35% energy savings and 5.49% reduction in travel time during non-peak hours and 5.06% energy savings and 1.32% reduction in travel time during peak hours of traffic intensity.