Abstract: A classification mechanism automatically aligns time-sensitive data streams to sequences (schedules), according to information in the packets or other information and classification criteria specified by a human network administrator, a sequence agent, an application program or otherwise. When a packet arrives at a first sequence-aware switch along a path, the packet is aligned to a new or existing sequence. When a new sequence is established, appointments are reserved at sequence-aware switches along the path. The packet is placed in a queue, based on its classification. When the packet reaches the head of the queue, at that queue's appointment time, the switch forwards the packet along the path. If possible, appointments have been reserved at subsequent switches along the packet's path, so the packet can be forwarded through the subsequent switches without delay. Packets that do not match any classification criteria are handled on a best-effort basis.

Abstract: Magnetizing current generated in a linear induction motor driving elevator car doors in elevator systems is optimized. Magnetizing current level is set low for door operation modes requiring lower levels of thrust, such as hold open and hold closed. Magnetizing current level is increased for modes of door operation requiring greater thrust levels, such as closing or opening. Optimization of magnetizing current in linear induction motors reduces overheating and increases energy efficiency.

Abstract: A secondary positioning system for elevator car doors includes three sensors positioned in register with a plurality of openings formed within a door hanger. The unique spacing between the sensors in combination with unique spacing between each of the openings within the door hanger, allows determination of fully closed, fully opened, and intermediate positions and direction of elevator car doors.

Abstract: A multiplexer receives a message from a first bus and a message from a second bus, wherein a preamble is received at the head of each message, compares the preamble from each bus against an ideal preamble and, prior to receiving the next bit in either message, provides to a transceiver the message which is least noisy as indicated by the comparison; if the preamble in the message on the bus presently selected for reception by the transceiver does not compare favorably with the ideal preamble, the message from the other bus is selected.

Abstract: A LAN elevator network includes (a) a pair of redundant car buses for exchanging signals with car control system elements, (b) a pair of redundant group buses for exchanging signals with the redundant car buses by means of a car-group bridge, and (c) with a pair of redundant building buses, which exchange messages with a building controller, by means of a group-building bridge. Communication among all nodes on the car bus, group bus, and building bus occurs by means of a single protocol. Each communications element on a bus communicates with the bus by means of a communications coprocessor including a transmitter and a receiver.

Abstract: The emergency terminal stopping speed is checked by comparing (30) the number of pulses (26) provided by an encoder (10) driven by the elevator motor (12) with a fixed number (36) which for the particular elevator will correspond to the maximum allowable speed when received within a time frame determined by the overflow (46) from a presettable (44) counter (40). The time period is adjusted for each elevator installation so that the fixed number of pulses relate to the desired speed by adjusting the preset of the presettable counter. Floor leveling speed is also determined by comparing (32) the counted number of pulses with a settable (38) number.