Supervisory System MelEye Enhances Elevator and Escalator Operation Management with the Latest Network Technologies

In recent years, the need for a monitoring system utilizing network technology has increased. In large-scale international airports, for example, interfacing with the building and facility management control system has proved an essential oracle. In order to meet this requirement, Mitsubishi Electric Corporation has developed a sophisticated monitoring system — MelEye — which utilizes web-based technology.

MelEye closely observes the operational status of elevators and escalators that handle continually changing passenger traffic. This allows building managers to rapidly respond to changing traffic patterns, thus optimizing the performance of elevators and escalators and maximizing the added value of the whole building. The application of the latest network technology has also greatly increased the number of controllable elevators and escalators, which minimizes the cost spent on facilities — such as supervisory rooms and monitors.

MelEye is our solution to futuristic building traffic monitoring systems.

Latest Network Technologies

• Application of web server and web browser
  Because the system configuration is hosted on a web server, the elevators and escalators can be monitored by multiple computers at any desired location within the provided network. The use of a web browser interface allows various functions.
• Application of Ethernet*
  The high-speed broadband network uses Ethernet to facilitate smooth data communication between the server and the elevators and escalators. Connecting to a special high-security network** enables monitoring from anywhere in the building.
  
  (* Ethernet is a trademark of Xerox Corporation in the U.S.A.)
  (** A special high-security network needs to be provided in addition to the general LAN circuit.)

User-friendly Screens

• Versatile monitoring screens
  The system displays the operation mode of each elevator or escalator, or the operational status of each group, on user-friendly screens.
• Easy selection of screens
  Straightforward mouse operation enables speedy selection of the required information.
• Reliable indications and alarm* for safety
  To ensure passenger safety, indications are provided to warn of all elevator and escalator failures. An optional alarm — which will go off for specific events, such as group or individual car control failure — can be added to the warning indications.
  (*The alarm is optional and requires speakers for the computer.)

Optional Features

• Remote control
  The computer connected to the MelEye system can control the special and emergency* operations of the elevators. For example: Floor Lockout, VIP Operation, Operation by Emergency Power Source or Fire Emergency Return.
  (*For more details on special and emergency operations, please refer to our product brochures.)
• Scheduling of operations
  All buildings have a flow of people moving to specific floors at specific time periods. Scheduling of special operations, such as Intense Up Peak or Lunch Time Service, can be preset to meet the demand inside the building.
• Statistical information
  Past elevator and escalator fault logs and computer operation logs are recorded*. In addition, the traffic analysis function counts the calls of the elevators and measures the user waiting time. These functions enable the building manager to analyze the traffic flow statistically and optimize the efficiency of elevator and escalator operations.
  (* This function is a standard feature.)
• Play back information
  The movement of any elevator at any selected time within the past 30 days can be replayed.
• Locations of elevators and escalators
  The locations of grouped elevators and escalators within the building are displayed, and any fault is highlighted in order to facilitate a timely response under emergency conditions or for troubleshooting.