Abstract: Elevator velocity profile generation is based upon combining an open loop, least time profile for acceleration with a precision closed loop, phase plane control for deceleration. The deceleration phase-plane velocity profile is generated as a modified mirror image of the acceleration profile, and transition from open loop control is within ride quality constraints. Adaptive control permits operating a drive unit closer to its limits without danger of overloading under worst case conditions, which account for a small percentage of the time. Thus, smaller drive units can be used in a given application with minimal impact on performance.

Abstract: Two signals are provided for dissimilar inner and outer door zones in either direction of elevator travel by a vane (20) of length (d) mounted to the elevator hoistway at a landing, and three sensors (26,28,30) mounted to the elevator cab; an upper sensor (26), a lower sensor (30) disposed at a distance less than d below the upper sensor, and a middle sensor (28) disposed midway between the upper and lower sensors.The contemporaneous provision of vane/sensor proximity signals from the upper and middle sensors is indicative of the cab being in the outer door zone for the landing when the cab is traveling in an upward direction.The contemporaneous provision of vane/sensor proximity signals from the lower and middle sensors is indicative of the cab being in the outer door zone for the landing when the cab is traveling in a downward direction.

Abstract: A debris-retrieving cane comprising a longitudinal cane shaft member having an upper handle portion and effectively having a lower ground-surface-engageable portion, with said cane shaft member being provided adjacent to the bottom end thereof with a hollow debris-receiving receptacle means and effectively with debris-movement means for use in moving and manipulating a quantity of debris relative to the debris-receiving receptacle means into received relationship for removal of received and retrieved debris for subsequent emptying elsewhere. The entire device closely simulates and is capable of use as an effective cane concurrently with and independent of its use as a debris retriever and is also capable of use as an auxiliary weapon in the event that the person carrying the device is assaulted, attacked, or threatened.