JP7833871B2 - Suspension device for elevator car, display device for elevator car, and suspension method - Google Patents

Description

This invention relates to an elevator car suspension device for mounting on the ceiling inside the elevator car and suspending an information processing device from the ceiling, an elevator car display device suspended from the ceiling inside the elevator car and displaying various information, and a method for suspending an information processing device from the ceiling.

There are numerous display devices, also known as digital signage, inside elevator cars that provide various information such as advertisements. Similarly, there are numerous surveillance cameras inside elevator cars that monitor the conditions within the car.

Specifically, related technologies included a display device comprising an information processing device having a display screen for displaying images, and a support member for supporting the information processing device, which was installed on the inner wall surface of an elevator car and displayed images to the elevator occupants (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2 below).

Japanese Patent Publication No. 2019-151443 Japanese Patent Publication No. 2019-199314

However, in the prior art, such as the display devices described in Patent Documents 1 and 2, the information processing device is attached to the side wall inside the elevator car, which interferes with cleaning and repairing the side wall. Furthermore, the prior art hinders the effective use of the wall space for advertising and interior design. Additionally, the prior art has limitations on the installation location on the side wall, such as requiring installation above the passenger's eye level.

This invention aims to provide an elevator car suspension device, elevator car display device, and suspension method that can effectively utilize the ceiling of an elevator car and enable effective information provision and collection within the elevator car, thereby solving the problems of the prior art described above.

To solve the above-mentioned problems and achieve the objective, the elevator car suspension device according to this invention is characterized by comprising: a mounting portion attached to the ceiling of the elevator car; a support portion for supporting an information processing device having a display screen; and a connecting portion that connects the mounting portion and the support portion, positioning the information processing device within the car at a location where the elevator occupant can view the display screen.

Furthermore, the elevator car suspension device according to this invention is characterized in that, in the above invention, it is provided with a rotating part located at least between the mounting part and the connecting part, and between the connecting part and the support part, which allows at least one of the connecting part and the support part to rotate around an axis in at least one of the vertical and horizontal directions.

Furthermore, the elevator car suspension device according to this invention is characterized in that, in the above invention, the connecting portion is composed of a plurality of connected connecting members, and is provided at least at one location between the connecting members, and includes a rotating portion that allows the connecting members to rotate around at least one axis in either the vertical or horizontal direction.

Furthermore, the elevator car suspension device according to this invention is characterized in that, in the above invention, it has a rotation control unit that controls the rotation and stopping of the rotation of the rotating part.

Furthermore, the elevator car suspension device according to this invention is characterized in that, in the above invention, the rotation control unit is controlled by remote operation or by instructions from the information processing device.

Furthermore, the elevator car suspension device according to this invention is characterized in that, in the above invention, the support portion is fixed to the side of the information processing device opposite to the side on which the display screen is provided, thereby supporting the information processing device.

Furthermore, the elevator car suspension device according to this invention is characterized in that, in the above invention, the support portion is fixed to the information processing device by a screw.

Furthermore, the elevator car suspension device according to this invention is characterized in that, in the above invention, at least one of the mounting parts is attached to the four corners of the ceiling or near the four corners.

Furthermore, the elevator car suspension device according to this invention is characterized in that, in the above invention, at least one of the mounting parts is attached to the central part of the ceiling or near the central part.

Furthermore, the elevator car suspension device according to this invention is characterized in that, in the above invention, the mounting portion is attached to the ceiling by a screw.

Furthermore, the elevator car suspension device according to this invention is characterized in that, in the above invention, it has a plurality of support parts attached to a single mounting part, and each of the plurality of support parts supports the information processing device.

Furthermore, the elevator car display device according to this invention is characterized by comprising: an information processing device having a display screen that displays various information including images within the elevator car; a suspension device comprising a mounting portion attached to the ceiling of the car; a support portion that supports the information processing device; and a connecting portion that connects the mounting portion and the support portion, positioning the information processing device in a location within the car where the elevator occupant can view the display screen.

Furthermore, the elevator car display device according to this invention is characterized in that, in the above invention, the information processing device is composed of a tablet-type terminal device equipped with a CPU (Central Processing Unit), memory, and a communication interface.

Furthermore, the suspension method according to this invention is characterized by using a suspension device comprising a mounting part attached to the ceiling of the elevator car, a support part for supporting an information processing device having a display screen, and a connecting part for connecting the mounting part and the support part, to suspend the information processing device from the ceiling so that the elevator occupants can view the display screen inside the elevator car.

The elevator car suspension device, elevator car display device, and suspension method according to this invention allow for effective use of the elevator car ceiling, resulting in the effect of effective information provision and information collection within the elevator car.

Figure 1 is an explanatory diagram (part 1) showing an example of the external configuration of an information processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 is an explanatory diagram (part 2) showing an example of the external configuration of an information processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 is an explanatory diagram (part 3) showing an example of the external configuration of an information processing device according to an embodiment of this invention. Figure 4 is an explanatory diagram (part 4) showing an example of the external configuration of an information processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5 is an explanatory diagram (part 1) showing an example of the connection state between the AC power connector and the power supply plug. Figure 6 is an explanatory diagram (part 2) showing an example of the connection state between the AC power connector and the power supply plug. Figure 7A is an explanatory diagram (part 1) showing an example of the installation of an information processing device according to the embodiment of this invention inside a cage. Figure 7B is an explanatory diagram (part 2) showing an example of the installation of an information processing device according to the embodiment of this invention inside a cage. Figure 7C is an explanatory diagram (part 3) showing an example of the installation of an information processing device according to the embodiment of this invention within a cage. Figure 8 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the appearance of an information processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention, including the display content. Figure 9 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of an information processing device and a suspension device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 10 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of an information processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 11 is an explanatory diagram (part 1) showing an example of the external configuration of a suspension device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 12 is an explanatory diagram (part 2) showing an example of the external configuration of a suspension device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 13 is an explanatory diagram showing another example of the installation of an information processing device according to the embodiment of this invention within a cage. Figure 14 is an explanatory diagram showing another example of the installation of an information processing device according to the embodiment of this invention within a cage. Figure 15 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing procedure of an information processing device according to an embodiment of this invention.

Preferred embodiments of the elevator car suspension device, elevator car display device, and suspension method according to this invention will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings.

(External configuration of the information processing device)
First, the external configuration of the information processing device constituting the elevator car display device according to the embodiment of this invention will be described. Figures 1 to 4 are explanatory diagrams showing the external configuration of the information processing device according to the embodiment of this invention. Figure 1 shows a front view of the information processing device according to the embodiment of this invention, and Figure 2 shows a rear view of the information processing device. Figure 3 shows a perspective view from the front of the information processing device according to the embodiment of this invention, and Figure 4 shows a perspective view from the rear of the information processing device.

As shown in Figures 1 to 4, the information processing device 100 according to this embodiment of the invention has a substantially flat plate shape. Specifically, the information processing device 100 comprises a flat rectangular prism-shaped housing 101, which gives it its flat plate shape. The information processing device 100 is installed with one side (hereinafter referred to as the "rear surface") 101a of the flat plate-shaped housing 101 facing the inner wall surface 714 of the elevator car (see Figures 7A to 7C described later). Also, as can be seen from Figure 4, the rear surface 101 may have a protruding shape. In this way, the information processing device 100 can be retrofitted inside the elevator car 701.

On the housing 101 of the information processing device 100, a display screen (display) 102 is provided on the side opposite to the rear 101a (hereinafter referred to as the "front 101b"). Specifically, the display screen 102 can be implemented using, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, or a 7-segment display.

Furthermore, the front surface 101b is provided with the front lens 103 (103a, 103b) of a camera (front camera 903, which will be described later in Figure 9). The front lens 103a is positioned vertically below the display screen 102 on the housing 101 when installed inside the cage.

Furthermore, the front lens 103b may be positioned outside the left or right edge of the display screen 102 (to the right in Figures 1, 3, and 6, when facing the display screen 102) of the housing 101, as shown in Figures 1, 3, and 6. The front lens 103 may consist of only one of 103a or 103b, or both 103a and 103b may be provided. The number of front lenses 103 is not limited to one or two, but may be three or more. The front lens 103, together with the front image sensor, constitutes the front camera (see reference numeral 903 in Figure 9, described later), which is the imaging means according to this invention.

The front camera may include one or more lenses between the front lens 103 and the image sensor, or a movable mechanism that moves at least one of the lenses along the optical axis. Specifically, the front camera is implemented by an AF unit that focuses using a passive method such as contrast AF (AutoFocus) or phase-detection AF.

Furthermore, the front lens 103b protrudes from the front plane and is configured to point downward at a predetermined angle relative to the front plane. It is also movable in the vertical and horizontal directions to allow adjustment of this angle. This ensures that even when the flat-shaped housing 101 is mounted on the ceiling 703 and the display screen 102 is parallel to the inner wall surface 704, the lower and left/right areas inside the cage 701 can be reliably captured.

Furthermore, of the components of the front camera, at least the front lens 103 only needs to be located vertically below the display screen 102 on the housing 101, or outside either the left or right edge of the display screen 102 on the housing 101. Depending on the shape of the housing 101 and the arrangement of components within the housing 101, components other than the front lens 103 do not necessarily need to be located vertically below the display screen 102.

Furthermore, the front panel 101b is equipped with a speaker 104 and a status indicator LED (Light Emitting Diode) 105. The speaker 104 generates sound by vibrating a diaphragm in response to an electrical signal, which is an audio signal. This allows for sound output in conjunction with advertising information such as videos displayed on the display screen 102, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of the advertisements. Additionally, background music can be played inside the cart independently of advertising information. Management information can also be output via voice. Furthermore, alarms and other alerts can be output in emergencies.

The speakers 104 are located on the left and right sides of the display screen 102 (left and right when installed inside the basket). The speakers 104 may also be output terminals that output audio signals, and external speakers may be connected to these output terminals to generate sound. One external speaker or two or more external speakers may be connected. This allows for the output of three-dimensional sound, enhancing the effectiveness of advertisements and other materials. The placement of the speakers 104 is not limited to the left and right sides of the display screen.

The status indicator LED 105 indicates the operating status of the information processing device 100. Specifically, the status indicator LED 105 indicates, for example, the ON/OFF status of the power supply, the link-up status, whether data transmission or reception has occurred, whether an error has occurred, and warnings. The status indicator LED 105 is composed of multiple LED lamps 105a. These multiple LED lamps 105a may each emit light in a different color, or they may each switch between multiple colors as appropriate. The status indicator LED 105 indicates the operating status of the information processing device 100 by the illumination status and color of each LED lamp 105a.

The rear panel 101a is provided with a power button 201 and operation buttons 202. Each time the power button 201 is pressed, it switches the power of the information processing device 100 on and off. The operation buttons 202 consist of multiple buttons 202a to 202f.

Specifically, buttons 202a and 202b accept, for example, an operation to adjust the volume of the sound output from speaker 104. Buttons 202c and 202d accept, for example, an operation to select a desired operation menu from among the multiple operation menus displayed on the setting screen shown on display screen 102 when the information processing device 100 is started up. Button 202e accepts confirmation of the selected operation menu.

Button 202e may, when operated while the information processing device 100 is running, accept an operation to switch the displayed content on the display screen 102. Specifically, by operating button 202e while the information processing device 100 is running, the displayed content, such as an advertisement, can be switched to the settings screen.

Button 202f, when operated while the information processing device 100 is running, accepts the request to start shooting. Whether to shoot with the front camera or the rear camera can be selected by operating buttons 202a to 202e.

The power button 201 and the operation button 202 only need to be located on the rear panel 101a. Specifically, for example, the power button 201 may be located on the rear panel 101a, and the operation button 202 may be located on the side of the housing 101 (a side other than the rear panel 101a and the front panel 101b) or on the front panel 101b. Alternatively, a touch panel may be layered on the display screen 102, and the operation button 202 may be implemented as a soft key reproduced by software using the touch panel and the image displayed on the display screen 102.

Furthermore, the rear panel 101a is provided with a rear cover 203, a rear lens 204, a port power switch 205, an external antenna mounting hole 206, multiple screw holes 207, an AC power connector 208, and an AC power cable fixing member 209. The rear cover 203 is detachably attached to the housing 101. The rear cover 203 is secured to the housing 101 using screws or the like.

It is preferable to use special screws that cannot be operated with general-purpose tools to secure the rear cover 203 to the housing 101. Furthermore, it is preferable to provide the rear cover 203 in multiple locations, including at least two locations on each side. When attached to the housing 101, the rear cover 203 covers ports and slots (not shown) provided on the rear 101a.

Ports are responsible for data input and output between the information processing device 100 and the outside world, and can be implemented using various USB types (such as Type-A). Multiple ports may be provided. When multiple ports are provided, for example, one can be used as an interface with an external device such as a remote monitoring device for the elevator, and another can be used as an interface with a storage device such as a USB memory stick for recording (video recording) images inside the elevator car captured by the security camera function. This allows for simultaneous operation with external devices while recording (video recording) images inside the elevator car. Slots accept the insertion of expansion boards, memory cards, etc., and can be implemented using, for example, a SIM card slot or a MicroSD card slot.

A slit 203a is provided in the rear cover 203. This allows cables (see reference numeral 502 in Figures 5 and 6) connecting the information processing device 100 to external devices to be routed outside through the slit 203a, while protecting the ports and the connections between the ports and terminals. This ensures flexibility in connecting to external devices.

The rear lens 204, together with the rear image sensor, constitutes a rear camera (see reference numeral 904 in Figure 9). The rear camera is used to read the property code (not shown) attached to the elevator to be installed during the installation of the information processing device 100. The property code can be implemented, for example, by a two-dimensional code attached to the inner wall of the elevator car. Reading the two-dimensional code with the rear camera may be performed only during the installation of the information processing device 100, or periodically after installation or when certain conditions are met.

By periodically reading the two-dimensional code using the rear camera after the information processing device 100 has been installed, or when certain conditions are met, it is possible to confirm that the information processing device 100 is installed in the correct location, thereby preventing unauthorized removal of the information processing device 100.

The port power switch 205 switches the port's power ON/OFF when operated. This allows for power saving by turning off the power when the port is not in use. If the information processing device 100 has multiple ports, a port power switch 205 may be provided for each port. This allows for individual power ON/OFF switching for each port, further reducing power consumption.

The external antenna mounting hole 206 is used for mounting an external antenna separate from the information processing device 100. Specifically, the external antenna mounting hole 206 can be implemented, for example, by an F-type connector. The F-type connector is connected to a receiving circuit (not shown) inside the housing 101.

As shown in Figure 11 (described later), screws 1102 (1102a to 1102d) are screwed into the screw holes 207 to secure the information processing device 100 to the support portion 712 of the suspension device. Details of the support portion 712 will be described later. The information processing device 100 is suspended from the ceiling 703 of the cage via the screws, through the support portion 712, the connecting portion 713, and the mounting portion 711 fixed to the cage ceiling.

The AC power connector 208 is designed to allow insertion and removal of a power supply plug (see reference numeral 501 in Figures 5 and 6), and accepts power supply when a power supply plug connected to a power source is inserted. The AC power connector 208 accepts the insertion of a power supply plug from a device that extracts a predetermined DC power from an AC (commercial power) input, such as an AC (Alternating Current) adapter. The AC power connector 208 realizes the power connector according to this invention.

In an AC adapter, the power supply plug is connected to an AC power source and to the main body, which consists of a transformer circuit, rectifier circuit, and stabilized power supply circuit that extract a predetermined DC power from the AC power source's AC. By receiving power via the AC adapter, the information processing device 100, which operates using semiconductor elements, can operate even without a circuit that converts AC to DC. This allows for weight reduction and cost reduction of the information processing device 100. However, the information processing device 100 itself may also be equipped with a circuit that converts AC to DC. The AC adapter is not limited to one that is permanently connected to an AC power source; it may also have a power plug that receives power when inserted into an outlet.

The AC power cable fixing member 209 is used to fix the position of the cable that is continuous with the power supply plug inserted (connected) to the AC power connector 208. Specifically, the AC power cable fixing member 209 has an arc shape with both ends in the longitudinal direction in contact with the back surface 101a, and a hole is formed by the inner circumferential surface of the arc shape and the back surface 101a.

The AC power cable fixing member 209 has at least one end in the longitudinal direction fixed to the rear surface 101a. The other end of the AC power cable fixing member 209 in the longitudinal direction does not need to be fixed to the rear surface 101a, and may be spaced apart from the rear surface 101a. The method of fixing the cable using the AC power cable fixing member 209 will be described later (see Figures 5 and 6).

Furthermore, when the information processing device 100 is installed inside the cage, another port (not shown in the illustration) is provided at the bottom of the housing 101. This other port handles data input and output between the information processing device 100 and the outside world, and specifically, it can be implemented using various USB Type ports, similar to the port described above. This other port is used, for example, when exporting image data (security camera recording data) captured by the information processing device 100 to an external device. By providing this other port at the bottom of the housing 101, image data can be exported to an external device without removing the information processing device 100 from the inner wall of the cage or removing the rear cover 203 from the housing 101.

The housing 101 may be provided with a cover 210 that covers another port. This cover 210 may be fixed to the housing 101 using screws or the like. It is preferable to use special screws for fixing the cover 210, similar to the screws used to fix the rear cover 203 described above. This prevents unauthorized export of image data, even when the port is located at the bottom of the housing 101 to ensure good operability.

(Connection status between AC power connector 208 and power supply plug)
Next, the connection state between the AC power connector 208 and the power supply plug will be described. Figures 5 and 6 are explanatory diagrams showing the connection state between the AC power connector 208 and the power supply plug. As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the information processing device 100 can be powered and operated when the power supply plug 501, which is connected to an AC power source, is inserted (connected) into the AC power connector 208.

The cable 502 connected to the power supply plug 501 is routed to an arbitrary position, taking into consideration the prevention of cable breakage and interference with surrounding components, after, for example, the power supply plug 501 has been inserted (connected) into the AC power connector 208. Then, after confirming that the routed cable 502 is not broken and does not interfere with surrounding components, the cable 502 is secured to the AC power cable fixing member 209 using cable ties or the like.

This fixes the relative positions of the AC power connector 208 and the power supply plug 501 to a certain extent, preventing the power supply plug 501 from moving freely relative to the AC power connector 208. This prevents accidental power interruptions due to vibrations caused by the elevator car's movement. Furthermore, fixing the position of the cable 502 prevents it from sagging and detracting from the aesthetics, and prevents tampering such as pulling the cable 502 to interrupt the power supply.

(Example of information processing equipment installation)
Next, an example of the installation of the information processing device 100, which constitutes the elevator car display device according to the embodiment of this invention, will be described. Figures 7A to 7C are explanatory diagrams showing an example of the installation of the information processing device according to the embodiment of this invention inside an elevator car. Figures 7A to 7C show the inside of the elevator car 701.

As shown in Figure 7A, the elevator car 701 has an interior space for passengers, and a door 702 that opens and closes this space to the outside, allowing passengers to enter and exit the car 701. The car 701 has a roughly rectangular box shape, consisting of a ceiling 703, four interior wall surfaces 704 (704a to 704d), and a floor surface 705. Specifically, the ceiling 703, the floor surface 705, the interior wall surface 704a with the door 702, the interior wall surfaces 704b and 704c adjacent to both sides of the interior wall surface 704a and approximately perpendicular to it, and the interior wall surface 704d facing the interior wall surface 704a and approximately parallel to it, form the roughly rectangular box-shaped car 701. Note that the interior wall surface 704d is not depicted in Figure 7A.

An inner wall surface 704a, which has a door 702, is provided with a control panel 706 operated by the crew inside the elevator car 701. The control panel 706 includes, for example, a group of control buttons including destination floor buttons, door open/close buttons, and emergency buttons, as well as a display that shows the floor level where the elevator car 701 is located.

In Figure 7A, the information processing device 100 is installed on the same inner wall surface 704a as the wall on which the door 702 and control panel 706 are located, near the ceiling 703 above the control panel 706, suspended from the ceiling 703 by a suspension device 710. This assumes that the occupants inside the elevator car 701 typically stand facing the wall on the door side 702. In Figure 7A, it is installed near the ceiling 703 on the opposite side of the door from the control panel 706, but it may also be installed near the ceiling above the control panel 706.

Typically, passengers often stand facing the inner wall surface 704a on the door side after entering the elevator car 701. Therefore, by positioning the information processing device 100 with its back to this inner wall surface 704a, passengers inside the elevator car 701 can easily view the advertisements displayed on the display screen 102. This allows for a high advertising effectiveness via the information processing device 100.

The information processing device 100, for example, captures the passenger's facial expression using the front camera 903, which will be described later in Figure 9. By installing the information processing device 100 near the ceiling 703, the front camera 903 can easily capture the passenger's facial expression. Furthermore, the front camera 903 can capture the passenger's facial expression when they disembark from the elevator car 701.

Furthermore, by installing the information processing device 100 near the ceiling 703, crew members cannot easily reach the information processing device 100 even under normal circumstances. Therefore, it is possible to prevent crew members from inadvertently touching, improperly operating, or damaging the information processing device 100.

The basket 701 is provided with a plug socket 707 that accepts the insertion of the AC adapter's power plug. The plug socket 707, when the AC adapter's power plug is inserted, forms a wiring connector together with the power plug. Specifically, for example, a Type A plug socket, commonly used in Japan, can be used.

The 707 plug socket is not limited to type A. Specifically, for example, type B3 or type C plug sockets, widely used in India and Indonesia, may also be used, as may type BF plug sockets, widely used in Hong Kong.

Alternatively, an SE-type plug socket, widely used in South Korea and other countries, may be used, or an O-type plug socket, widely used in Taiwan and other countries, may be used. In countries and regions where multiple types of plug sockets are common, such as China, it is preferable to use any type of plug socket appropriate to the area where the elevator is installed, from among various types such as A-type, B-type, C-type, B3-type, BF-type, SE-type, and O-type.

The plug socket 707 is electrically connected to the electrical circuit of the circuit board housed in the cage-top box. This allows power to be supplied to the information processing device 100 via the plug socket 707 and the AC adapter. The plug socket 707 is not limited to being directly connected to the terminals of the electrical circuit of the circuit board housed in the cage-top box; it may also be connected to a power line connected to those terminals. When connecting the plug socket 707 to such a power line, a branching connector can be provided on the power line, and the plug socket 707 can be connected to this connector.

Conventionally, in order to display images for extended periods in an add-on information processing device, continuous power supply to the device is essential. However, if a power supply cable 502 is connected to the information processing device, a hole must be drilled in the ceiling 703 or inner wall surface 704 of the cage 701 to pass the power supply cable 502 through, resulting in a complicated and time-consuming process.

Furthermore, if a hole is drilled in the elevator car 701 to allow the power supply cable 502 to pass through, when the information processing device 100 installed inside the car 701 is removed after the elevator is installed, the hole drilled in the car 701 for the cable 502 will be exposed. To avoid problems such as detracting from the aesthetics, it is necessary to perform repair work to seal the hole. This work is complicated and time-consuming, resulting in extended periods of elevator downtime and negatively impacting user convenience.

In contrast, in the elevator shown in Figure 7A, a plug socket 707 is provided in the car 701, allowing power to be supplied to the information processing device 100 without the need to drill a separate hole in the car 701 for inserting the power supply cable 502. This allows the information processing device 100 to be easily and quickly installed without burdening workers, and can be operated continuously without being shut down due to power shortages. Furthermore, even when displaying advertisements on the display screen 102, it can operate stably without being shut down due to power shortages. This also reduces the time required for installing the information processing device 100, thereby reducing the burden on elevator users and workers.

Furthermore, since the cage 701 is equipped with a plug socket 707, the work of filling in the through-hole for inserting the power supply cable 502 into the cage 701 becomes unnecessary, thereby reducing the burden on workers during removal. In addition, the aesthetic appearance of the inside of the cage 701 after the removal of the information processing device 100 can be ensured.

Furthermore, if the plug socket 707 is exposed inside the cage 701, it is preferable to position the plug socket 707 at a high location inside the cage 701, as shown in Figure 7A. Specifically, as shown in Figure 7A, it is preferable to install the plug socket 707 on the ceiling 703 or inner wall surface 704 of the cage 701. By positioning the plug socket 707, which is exposed inside the cage 701, at a high location inside the cage 701, it is possible to prevent water droplets from umbrellas or clothing from adhering to it during rainy weather, and also to make it more difficult for electricity to be stolen or for children to tamper with it.

The plug socket 707 may be provided as one per basket 701, or multiple plug sockets may be provided per basket 701. When multiple plug sockets 707 are provided in one basket 701, they may be arranged side by side or distributed in multiple locations. The plug sockets 707 should be arranged such that they are in the same plane as the ceiling 703 or inner wall surface 704 of the basket 701. Furthermore, the plug sockets 707 may be covered by a removable cover member or the like.

Furthermore, the cage 701 may be provided with a connector seat (not shown) instead of a plug socket 707. The connector seat has the function of supplying power from the electrical circuit housed in the cage-top box (not shown) to the information processing device 100 connected to the connector seat. Specifically, for example, power can be supplied to the electrical equipment connected to the connector seat by using a receptacle equipped with power supply wiring. The receptacle may also be equipped with signal transmission wiring in addition to power supply wiring.

The receptacle that provides the connector is preferably implemented using a hot-plug mechanism that allows the information processing device 100 connected to the receptacle to be plugged in and unplugged while it is in operation. The receptacle that provides the connector may also supply power to the information processing device 100 via a control circuit (not shown).

Furthermore, the connector seat may be implemented, for example, by a USB connector. The USB connector acting as a receptacle for the connector seat can be implemented by various known USB connector receptacles, such as USB Type-A connectors, Micro USB connectors, Micro USB Type-B connectors, and USB Type-C connectors.

Furthermore, the receptacle that provides the connector seat is not limited to USB interface connectors (receptacles), but may also be implemented using, for example, IEEE 1394 connectors, PS/2 connectors, D-Sub connectors, DIN connectors, coaxial connectors, or various other known communication connectors.

The receptacle that provides the connector seat may be provided as one per cage 701, or multiple receptacles may be provided per cage 701. When multiple receptacles providing connector seats are provided per cage 701, the communication I/F connector may be of one type, or multiple types.

The receptacle that provides the connector seat can be positioned such that, for example, its end is flush with the inner wall surface 704 of the cage 701. Alternatively, the receptacle that provides the connector seat may have its end protruding inward from the inner wall surface 704 of the cage 701, or it may be positioned recessed from the inner wall surface 704 of the cage 701.

Figure 7B shows the view from the inner wall surface 704b side to the inner wall surface 704c side inside the elevator car 701. In Figure 7B, the suspension device 710 comprises a mounting portion 711 attached to the ceiling 703 of the elevator car 701, a support portion 712 supporting the information processing device 100 having a display screen 102, and a connecting portion 713 that connects the mounting portion 711 and the support portion 712, positioning the information processing device 100 in a location inside the elevator car 701 where the display screen 102 can be viewed. Furthermore, the suspension device 710 is provided with a pivot portion 714a between the mounting portion 711 and the connecting portion 713, and between the connecting portion 713 and the support portion 712. The pivot portion 714a allows at least one of the connecting portion 713 and the support portion 712 to rotate around an axis in at least one of the vertical and horizontal directions.

Furthermore, the suspension device 710 also has a connecting section 713, which is composed of multiple (two in Figure 7B) connecting members, and a rotating section 714b is provided between the connecting members. The rotating section 714b allows the connecting members to rotate around a horizontal axis. The rotating section 714b may also allow the connecting members to rotate around a vertical axis.

Furthermore, the suspension device 710 can support the information processing device 100 by fixing the support portion 712 to the opposite side (rear 101a) of the side (front 101b) on which the display screen 102 of the information processing device 100 is located.

By configuring the suspension device 710 in this way, the position and display direction of the display screen 102 of the information processing device 100 can be freely changed while the information processing device 100 is suspended from the ceiling 703.

Figure 7C shows another example of the installation of the information processing device 100. In Figure 7C, the suspension devices 710 are attached to the four corners (or near the four corners) of the ceiling 703. This allows the information processing device 100 to be positioned with both the inner wall surface 704a and the inner wall surface 704c behind it. The display screen 102 can also be tilted forward. In this way, the information processing device 100 can be suspended and installed at the corners of the ceiling 703 of the elevator car 701, and the display screen 102 can be viewed from anywhere in the elevator car 701.

Furthermore, although not shown in the illustration, the information processing device 100 may be installed on the wall surface opposite to the inner wall surface 704a where the door 702 and control panel 706 are located (the inner wall surface 704d on the rear side of the cage 701). By installing it on the inner wall surface 704d on the rear side of the cage 701, the occupant can see the information processing device 100 (or its display screen 102) when entering the cage 701.

Furthermore, by installing information processing devices 100 on the inner wall surface 704a where the door 702 and control panel 706 are located, and on the wall surface opposite to that inner wall surface 704a (the inner wall surface 704d at the rear of the cage 701), the occupants can view the information processing device 100 (or its display screen 102) when entering and exiting the cage 701.

Furthermore, the information processing device 100 may be installed on the inner wall surfaces (side wall surfaces) 704b and 704c on either side, instead of on the upper part of the same wall surface 704a where the door 702 and control panel 706 are located. In this case, it is preferable to install the information processing device 100 on the upper part of the side wall surfaces 704b and 704c of the cage 701, closer to the ceiling 703. Thus, the information processing device 100 may be installed at any position above the upper end of the door 702 inside the cage 701. Also, the information processing device 100 is not limited to one unit; multiple units may be installed on the inner wall surfaces and corners.

The information processing device 100 can be retrofitted using the suspension device 710 after the elevator has been installed. The information processing device 100 can be installed in an optimal location considering factors such as the size (capacity) of the elevator car 701, the height of the ceiling 703 of the car 701, the shape of the car 701 (e.g., square or rectangular floor), the type of elevator (see-through type, presence or absence of mirrors on the walls), and the type of outer door (presence or absence of windows). Furthermore, the information processing device 100 may be designed so that its installation position and orientation (horizontal and vertical angles) can be freely changed after installation.

The information processing device 100 can be installed in elevators in various locations, including apartment buildings, commercial buildings, office buildings, schools, and medical facilities. Because the elevator car 701 is a sealed space, displaying various information from the information processing device 100 can achieve a high visibility rate.

(Appearance of the information processing device 100)
Next, the appearance of the information processing device 100 will be described. Figure 8 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the appearance of an information processing device, including the display content, according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Figure 8, the display screen 102 of the information processing device 100 is a horizontally elongated rectangle and is surrounded by the housing 101.

The display screen 102 may consist of multiple areas (four in this embodiment), such as a security camera video display area 801, a management information display area 802, various information display areas 803, and an advertising display area (advertising area) 804. By dividing the display into these four areas, various types of information can be efficiently conveyed to the occupants.

The display screen 102 has a rectangular advertising display area 804 in the lower left corner. Surrounding this area, from the top to the right, are three L-shaped display areas: a security camera video display area 801, a management information display area 802, and various information display areas 803. The security camera video display area 801 is located on the left side, followed by the horizontally elongated management information display area 802. The security camera video display area 801 may display real-time video captured by the front camera.

Furthermore, in the management information display area 802, if the message is long, it is displayed scrolling from right to left. The management information display area 802 is located above the display screen 102 because the upper part of the display screen 102 is easily visible to the crew, thus ensuring that relatively important management information is reliably conveyed to them.

Furthermore, a vertically oriented information display area 803 is provided on the right side, displaying various information that should be communicated to elevator occupants, such as weather forecasts, traffic information, and news, as shown in Figure 8. When displaying a large amount of information in the information display area 803, the information may be arranged to flow from bottom to top.

Specifically, for example, when displaying weather forecasts for various regions, newer region information may be displayed sequentially from the bottom, while older region information may move to the top before being removed. Conversely, the information may be displayed flowing from top to bottom. It may also be displayed flowing to either the left or right. In this way, the display format of the various information display areas 803 can be changed depending on the content of the information being displayed.

There does not need to be a clear boundary between the management information display area 802 and the various information display area 803. This allows the management information display area 802 to be extended to the right, or the various information display area 803 to be extended upwards, depending on the display situation. Furthermore, depending on the information to be displayed, the management information display area 802 and the various information display area 803 can be used as a single continuous area.

The advertising display area (advertising area) 804 displays advertising information consisting of video or still images. Specifically, the advertising information is designed to hit the target audience during the short elevator ride time (the time from boarding the elevator car 703 at a designated floor to disembarking at another designated floor). For example, it may be broadcast in a loop of 120 seconds per roll. A 120-second roll can be constructed by appropriately combining 30-second, 15-second, and 6-second advertisements. More generally, for example, a 120-second roll can be achieved by using six 15-second slots and five 6-second slots, alternating between the two. By employing such efficiently cyclical materials as 6-second and 15-second advertisements, the hit rate can be further increased.

Advertising rates can be set separately based on the length of the advertisement. Furthermore, rates can be set differently depending on the number of displays, region, and other factors.

Since most people, including apartment residents and office building workers, use elevators every day, elevators are always a part of people's daily routines. In other words, they are a medium closely tied to people's daily lives, such as during commutes and when going out. By playing audio, their visibility can be further enhanced, making them an effective advertising medium for delivering advertising information. In this way, advertisers can directly connect the "information" they want to convey to the "people" who use elevators.

In this way, by arranging the display screen 102, advertising information can be displayed while other information is simultaneously conveyed to the passengers. The display screen 102 is normally laid out as shown in Figure 8, but this layout may be changed depending on the situation. For example, in the event of an emergency such as an elevator malfunction, the advertising area may be cleared and necessary information displayed. Furthermore, as a display effect for advertising, the entire display screen 102 may be used for advertising.

(Hardware configuration of the information processing device 100)
Next, the hardware configuration of the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment of this invention will be described. Figure 9 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the information processing device and suspension device according to the embodiment of this invention. As shown in Figure 9, the information processing device 100 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 901, a memory 902, a front camera 903, a rear camera 904, a communication interface (I/F) 905, a display screen (display) 102, a speaker 104, a microphone 906, a vibration sensor 907, an illuminance sensor 908, a power control unit 909, a power button 201, and an operation button 202. Each component 102, 104, 201, 202, and 901 to 909 are connected by a bus 900.

Thus, the information processing device 100 may be implemented using an information processing device such as a tablet terminal (tablet terminal, tablet PC), smartphone, notebook personal computer (mobile PC), or digital camera, each equipped with components 102, 104, 201, 202, and 901-909. In this way, an all-in-one, portable, and highly functional information processing device can be used as the information processing device 100. This allows for the implementation of a display device and a security camera using a general-purpose device, without the need to separately develop and manufacture specialized equipment for elevators.

The CPU 901 controls the entire information processing device 100 by executing programs stored in the memory 902. The memory 902 can store various types of information, including programs executed by the CPU 901. The memory 902 may also store advertising information displayed on the display screen 102, image data captured by the front camera 903 and rear camera 904, and information regarding the date and time of capture. The memory 902 may be internal memory built into the information processing device 100, such as a hard disk memory, IC memory, or SSD (Solid State Drive).

Furthermore, the memory 902 may be a memory card that can be attached to and detached from the information processing device 100 via a card slot provided on the information processing device 100. The memory card can, for example, be an IC card such as an SD (Secure Digital) memory card. The memory card may also be an external hard disk, USB memory, SSD, etc.

The front camera 903 is equipped with a front-facing image sensor, and acquires image information (captured data) by converting light received by the front-facing image sensor through the front lens 103 into an electrical signal. The front camera 903 may capture still images or motion pictures. Motion pictures include the continuous playback of still images captured at predetermined time intervals. The image information may be compressed using a predetermined standard for video and audio data compression (for example, MPEG (Moving Picture Experts Group)).

The rear camera 904 is equipped with a rear-facing image sensor, and acquires image information (capture data) by converting light received by the rear-facing image sensor through the rear lens 204 into an electrical signal. The rear camera 904, for example, captures still images. The image information may be compressed using a predetermined video/audio data compression standard (for example, MPEG (Moving Picture Experts Group)) similar to that of the front camera 903.

The communication interface 905 is an interface that connects the information processing device 100 to a network N such as the Internet via a communication line. It controls the interface between the network N and the internal workings of the information processing device 100, and controls the input of data from external devices and the output of data to external devices. Specifically, external devices include, for example, the remote monitoring device 930 and the suspension device 710, as shown in Figure 9.

The CPU 901 may control the communication interface 905 to acquire advertising information via the network N from an advertising distribution server or an advertiser's information terminal device (not shown in the diagram). Alternatively, the CPU 901 may control the communication interface 905 to receive advertising information from an information terminal device, such as a smartphone, carried by an elevator occupant.

The communication interface 905 is, for example, a wireless interface using Wi-Fi® or Bluetooth®. Alternatively, the communication interface 905 may be a wireless communication interface such as a mobile phone line (e.g., LTE (Long Term Evolution)) or PHS (Personal Handy-phone System), or it may employ a wired communication interface such as a modem or LAN adapter. Furthermore, it may connect to a network that the elevator has for remote monitoring, and information may be transmitted and received via that network. The communication interface 905 may also be implemented using, for example, a USB interface.

The display screen 102 is controlled by the CPU 901 to display advertisements and other information. The display screen 102 may also display elevator management information, such as maintenance schedules. This management information is transmitted to the information processing device 100 as needed, for example, by the administrator of the information processing device 100. The advertisement and management information may include information indicating the display period on the display screen 102 (such as the display start date and time and display end date and time).

The speaker 104 generates sound by vibrating its diaphragm in response to an electrical signal, which is an audio signal. The speaker 104 may also have an output terminal that outputs an audio signal, and an external speaker 104 may be connected to this output terminal to generate sound.

The microphone 906 collects sound from inside the cage 701. The vibration sensor 907 detects vibrations in the cage 701. The vibration sensor 907 can be implemented, for example, by an acceleration sensor. The illuminance sensor 908 detects the illuminance (brightness) inside the cage 701. The illuminance sensor 908 can be implemented, for example, by a phototransistor or photodiode. In addition to these sensors, although not shown in the figures, other sensors such as proximity sensors, contact sensors, temperature sensors, humidity sensors, and infrared sensors may also be provided.

The power control unit 909 can be implemented, for example, by a voltage adjustment unit (such as a power supply IC) that adjusts the voltage of the AC power supplied via the cable 502. Alternatively, the power control unit may consist of, for example, a power outlet plug, a cable connected to the power outlet plug, and a transformer circuit, rectifier circuit, stabilized power supply circuit, etc., that extracts a predetermined DC power from the AC power supplied via the power outlet plug.

Furthermore, the information processing device 100 is equipped with a battery (storage battery) such as a lithium battery. That is, the power control unit 909 may include a storage battery. Alternatively, the power control unit 909 may be equipped with connection terminals for connecting a storage battery. This allows for easy replacement of the storage battery. Thus, the power control unit 909 has an AC power connector 208 and supplies power supplied to the AC power connector 208 to each component of the information processing device 100.

The power button 201 and operation buttons 202 each output a signal to the CPU 901 corresponding to the button pressed. The CPU 901 controls the operation of various components based on the signals output from the power button 201 and operation buttons 202, thereby switching the power ON/OFF, adjusting the volume of audio output from the speaker 104, and switching the display content on the display screen 102.

Although not shown in the diagram, the information processing device 100 may also include a memory card interface, input/output devices, a GNSS receiver, and other components. The memory card interface is an interface connected to the information processing device 100 via a card slot. The memory card interface controls the internal interface with the memory card, and controls the input of data from the memory card and the output of data to the memory card.

Input/output devices can be implemented, for example, by keys or buttons for inputting characters, numbers, or various instructions. Alternatively, input/output devices may be implemented by microphones, displays (touch panels), or connection terminals to which other information processing devices can be connected.

GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) is a general term for satellite positioning systems such as GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and Quasi-Zenith Satellite System (QZSS). A GNSS receiver receives radio waves from three to five satellites and outputs GNSS positioning data to determine its geometric position relative to the satellites. The GNSS receiver allows the information processing device 100 to determine its current position. The current position may be, for example, information regarding latitude and longitude. Alternatively, the current position may be information regarding a base station performing wireless communication. If information regarding a base station is used as the current position, a GNSS receiver may not be necessary.

Furthermore, the information processing device 100 may be equipped with an image projection device (projector) in place of, or in addition to, the display screen 102. This allows the image to be projected onto at least one of the following surfaces of the elevator car 701: the door 702, the ceiling 703, the interior wall surfaces 704a to 704d, or the floor surface 705.

Furthermore, as shown in Figure 9, the suspension device 710 includes a communication interface (I/F) 951, a drive circuit (rotation control unit) 952, and a motor 953. The communication I/F 951 may be a wireless interface such as Wi-Fi® or Bluetooth®, or it may employ a wired communication interface such as a modem or LAN adapter.

The drive circuit (rotation control unit) 952 rotates the motor 953 and controls the rotation and stopping of the motor 953.

The motor 953 is provided on the rotating parts 714a and 714b. By rotating the motor 953 in both forward and reverse directions, the rotating part 714a is rotated, causing the connecting part 713 to rotate relative to the mounting part 711. Similarly, the rotation of the motor 953 rotates the rotating part 714a, causing the support part 712 to rotate relative to the connecting part 713. Also similarly, the rotation of the motor 953 rotates the rotating part 714b, causing the connecting members of the connecting part 713 to rotate.

(Functional configuration of the information processing device 100)
Figure 10 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of an information processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention. In Figure 10, the information processing device 100 includes a control unit 1000, an imaging unit 1001, an imaging information storage unit 1002, a power supply unit 1003, an energy storage unit 1004, a power monitoring unit 1005, a power supply control unit 1006, an advertising information receiving unit 1007, an advertising information storage unit 1008, a display unit 1009, a receiving unit 1011, and a transmitting unit 1012. Also in Figure 10, arrows A to E indicate the flow of power supply.

The control unit 1000 controls the entire information processing device 100. Specifically, the control unit 1000 can achieve its functions, for example, by having the CPU 901 shown in Figure 9 execute a program stored in the memory 902 or the like.

The imaging unit 1001 photographs the inside of the cage 701. Specifically, the imaging unit 1001 can achieve its function using, for example, the front camera 903 shown in Figure 9, i.e., the front lens 103 (103a, 103b).

The image information storage unit 1002 stores image information and video information captured by the image capture unit 1001. Specifically, the image information storage unit 1002 can function using, for example, the memory 902 shown in Figure 9. Alternatively, the image information storage unit 1002 may function using an external memory (not shown). Furthermore, the image information stored in the image information storage unit 1002 may be transmitted to an external device such as a management center via the network N using the communication interface 905 shown in Figure 9.

The power supply unit 1003 receives power from the AC power connector 208 via the power supply plug 501 (arrows A and B) to power the device (information processing device 100), including the display unit 1009 and the imaging unit 1001, and supplies the received power to the device (information processing device 100) (arrow C). Here, arrow C is shown as supplying power to the control unit 1000. This indicates that by supplying power to the control unit 1000, power is supplied to each component of the device (information processing device 100) (arrow E, described later, is the same). Furthermore, the rotating part 714 (motor 953) of the suspension device 710 may also be included among the components. Alternatively, the rotating part 714 (motor 953) of the suspension device 710 may be driven by a separate power source.

The power supply unit 1003 also supplies power to the energy storage unit 1004 (arrow D). Specifically, the power supply unit 1003 can function through, for example, the power control unit 909 shown in Figure 9. Alternatively, the power supply unit 1003 may function through the CPU 901 executing a program stored in memory 902 or the like.

The energy storage unit 1004 is installed in the device (information processing device 100) and stores energy when power is supplied by the power supply unit 1003 (arrow D). Specifically, the energy storage unit 1004 can function through, for example, the power control unit 909 shown in Figure 9.

The power supply monitoring unit 1005 monitors the status of the power supply received by the power supply unit 1003. Specifically, the power supply status refers to situations such as a sudden change in the voltage of the power supply received by the power supply unit 1003 (arrow B), or a situation where the voltage becomes unstable, preventing the power supply unit 1003 from supplying stable power to various parts of the device (information processing device 100), including the imaging unit 1001. This could result in problems with imaging by the imaging unit 1001. The power supply monitoring unit 1005 also detects when the power supply to the power supply unit 1003 via the power supply plug 501 (arrows A and B) has stopped. Furthermore, the power supply monitoring unit 1005 monitors the insertion and removal status of the power supply plug 501 from the AC power connector 208. Finally, the power supply monitoring unit 1005 monitors the energy storage level of the energy storage unit 1004.

The power supply monitoring unit 1005 can, specifically, implement its functions through, for example, the power supply control unit 909 shown in Figure 9. Alternatively, the power supply monitoring unit 1005 may implement its functions through the CPU 901 executing a program stored in memory 902 or the like.

The power supply control unit 1006 switches the power supply from the power supply unit 1003 to the information processing device (information processing device 100) (arrow C) depending on the power supply monitoring status by the power supply monitoring unit 1005. Specifically, for example, if the power supply unit 1003 is unable to supply stable power to each part of the device (information processing device 100), including the imaging unit 1001. The power supply control unit 1006 switches the power supply from the power supply unit 1003 to the power supply from the energy storage unit 1004 (arrow E).

Furthermore, the power supply control unit 1006 may switch the power supply from the power supply unit 1003 to its own device (information processing device 100) (arrow C) to the power storage unit 1004 (arrow E) when the power monitoring unit 1005 detects that the power supply to the power supply unit 1003 (arrow B) has stopped. The cessation of power supply to the power supply unit 1003 includes causes such as elevator power outages, cable 502 breakage or poor contact (causes that result in the inability to supply power, arrow A). Also, the power supply control unit 1006 may switch the power supply from the power supply unit 1003 to its own device (information processing device 100) (arrow C) to the power storage unit 1004 (arrow E) when the power monitoring unit 1005 detects that the power supply plug 501 has been removed from the AC power connector 208.

Furthermore, the power supply control unit 1006 may, when the power supply monitoring unit 1005 detects that the power supply plug 501 has been inserted into the AC power connector 208, switch the power supply from the energy storage unit 1004 to the device (information processing device 100) (arrow E) to the power supply from the power supply unit 1003 (arrow C). At that time, the power supply from the power supply unit 1003 to the energy storage unit 1004 (energy storage, arrow D) may be resumed.

Furthermore, the power supply control unit 1006 may stop supplying power to the display unit 1009 depending on the status of the charge level in the energy storage unit 1004. The status of the charge level in the energy storage unit 1004 may be determined, for example, based on the monitoring results of the power supply monitoring unit 1005.

Specifically, the power supply control unit 1006 can perform its functions, for example, by having the CPU 901, as shown in Figure 9, execute a program stored in the memory 902 or the like. Alternatively, the power supply control unit 1006 may also perform its functions by having the CPU 901 execute a program stored in the memory 902 or the like.

The advertising information receiving unit 1007 receives advertising information related to advertisements for elevator occupants. Specifically, the advertising information receiving unit 1007 can implement its function using, for example, the communication I/F 905 shown in Figure 9. The advertising information receiving unit 1007 can receive advertising information via the network N from an advertising distribution server or an advertiser's information terminal device (not shown). Alternatively, the advertising information receiving unit 1007 may also receive advertising information from an information terminal device carried by the elevator occupants, as described later.

The advertising information storage unit 1008 stores the advertising information received by the advertising information receiving unit 1007. Specifically, the advertising information storage unit 1008 can implement its function using, for example, the memory 902 shown in Figure 9. The advertising information storage unit 1008 may store the advertising information received by the advertising information receiving unit 1007 as is, or it may store the advertising information after it has been processed for display by the control unit 1000.

The display unit 1009 consists of an advertising information display control unit 1010 and a display screen 102. The display screen 102 is located on the front of the information processing device 100 and displays video or still image advertisements to the occupants of the elevator car 701.

The advertising information display control unit 1010 displays advertisements on the display screen 102 based on the advertising information received by the advertising information receiving unit 1007 and stored in the advertising information storage unit 1008. The above-mentioned looping of advertisements in 120-second rolls is performed by the advertising information display control unit 1010. The advertising information display control unit 1010 may also display information other than advertisements on the display screen 102. Specifically, the advertising information display control unit 1010 can be implemented, for example, by the CPU 901 shown in Figure 9 executing a program stored in memory 902 or the like.

The advertising information display control unit 1010 may display the advertising information stored in the advertising information storage unit 1008 on the display screen 102, or it may process the advertising information stored in the advertising information storage unit 1008 by the control unit 1000 before displaying it on the display screen 102. Furthermore, the advertising information display control unit 1010 can also display management information and security camera footage on the display screen 102 in addition to advertising information.

The control unit 1000 also calculates the movement position of the information processing device 100 and generates control signals to control the rotation and stopping of the rotation of the rotating parts 714 (714a, 714b) based on the calculation result. Specifically, the movement position is calculated by acquiring occupant status information such as the position and direction of the occupant's line of sight using cameras and various sensors, and then calculating the position and angle to which the information processing device 100 should be moved based on the acquired occupant status information. The position and angle to be moved are the position and angle from which the occupant can see the display screen 102. Alternatively, the position and angle to be moved may be the position and angle from which the occupant can touch the touch panel provided on the display screen 102. The control signals are control signals for each rotating part 714 regarding which direction (forward/reverse) and by how much to rotate each motor 953 in order to move the information processing device 100 to the movement position. The generated control signals are sent from the communication I/F 905 to the communication I/F 951 of the suspension device 710 via the network N. The communication interface 951 transmits the received control signals to the drive circuit (rotation control unit) 952. Based on these control signals, the drive circuit 952 performs rotational drive on each motor 953.

Thus, the rotation control unit 952 is controlled by instructions from the information processing device 100. Alternatively, the rotation control unit 952 may be controlled remotely from the remote monitoring device 930. In this case, the operator operating the remote monitoring device 930 can control the rotation control unit 952 to manipulate the position and angle of the information processing device 100, visually inspect the state inside the cage 701 or the state of the occupants inside the cage 701 as captured by the information processing device 100, and further manipulate the position and angle of the information processing device 100 to display their own image on the display screen 102 of the information processing device 100, enabling face-to-face video communication with the occupants.

In this way, the position and orientation of the information processing device 100 suspended from the suspension device 710 within the space of the cage 701 can be easily changed. More specifically, as shown in Figure 14 later, for example, it becomes possible to respond to occupants in emergencies, more specifically to occupants who have fallen or are sitting down, thereby enabling more appropriate measures for the occupants.

(Exterior view of the suspension device)
Figures 11 and 12 are explanatory diagrams showing an example of the external configuration of a suspension device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 11 shows the entire suspension device 710, and Figure 12 shows a part of the suspension device 710 viewed from a different angle. Figure 11 also shows the mounting portion 711 attached to the ceiling 703, and Figure 12 shows the mounting portion 711 not attached to the ceiling 703.

As shown in Figure 12, the mounting portion 711 has at least three screw holes: screw holes 1201a (1201a not shown), 1201b, and 1201c. As shown in Figure 11, the mounting portion 711 is attached to the ceiling 703 by screwing it in with screws (bolts) 1101a, 1101b, and 1101c that pass through the screw holes 1201a (1201a not shown), 1201b, and 1201c.

The support portion 712 is fixed to the information processing device 100 by screwing screws 1102a to 1102d (1102d not shown) through screw holes provided in the support portion 712 into screw holes 207 (see Figure 4) provided on the opposite side (rear surface 101a) of the information processing device 100 from the side (front surface 101b) where the display screen 102 is located.

Furthermore, the support portion 712 and the connecting portion 713 are connected by bolt 723a and nut 723b. That is, as shown in Figure 11, the support portion 712 is rotatably connected to the connecting portion 713 with the longitudinal direction of bolt 723a as the axis. This rotation is restricted by tightening the connection between the support portion 712 and the connecting portion 713 with nut 723b, thereby fixing the orientation of the support portion 712 relative to the connecting portion 713. Therefore, bolt 723a and nut 723b function as a pivot portion 714 between the support portion 712 and the connecting portion 713.

Furthermore, a rotation assist member 1110 is used to connect the mounting portion 711 and the connecting portion 713. The rotation assist member 1110 has one through-hole (not shown) at each end for passing a screw (bolt) 1121a through. The orientation of each through-hole is perpendicular to each other. The screw (bolt) 1121a is screwed in using a nut 1121b, by passing it through the first through-hole in the mounting portion 711, then through the through-hole in the rotation assist member 1110, and finally through the second through-hole in the mounting portion 711, so that the mounting portion 711 sandwiches the rotation assist member 1110. Figure 12 shows the state in which the screw (bolt) 1121a and nut 1121b are screwed together.

Similarly, the first through-hole in the connecting portion 713 is passed through, then through the other through-hole in the rotation assist member 1110, and then through the second through-hole in the connecting portion 713. This causes the connecting portion 713 to sandwich the rotation assist member 1110, and the screw (bolt) 1122a is then screwed in with the nut 1122b. Figure 12 shows the state in which the screw (bolt) 1122a and nut 1122b are screwed in.

Thus, the rotation assist member 1110 is rotatably connected to the mounting portion 711 with the longitudinal direction of the screw (bolt) 1121a as its axis. Furthermore, the rotation assist member 1110 is rotatably connected to the connecting portion 713 with the longitudinal direction of the screw (bolt) 1122a as its axis. By connecting the mounting portion 711 and the connecting portion 713 via the rotation assist member 1110, the connecting portion 713 becomes rotatably connected to the mounting portion 711 with the longitudinal direction of both the screw (bolt) 1121a and the screw (bolt) 1122a as its axis.

Then, by tightening the connection between the mounting portion 711 and the rotation assist member 1110 with bolt 1121a and nut 1121b, the rotation of the rotation assist member 1110 relative to the mounting portion 711 is restricted, thereby fixing the orientation of the rotation assist member 1110 relative to the mounting portion 711. Similarly, by tightening the connection between the connecting portion 713 and the rotation assist member 1101 with bolt 1122a and nut 1122b, the rotation of the connecting portion 713 and the rotation assist member 1101 is restricted, thereby fixing the orientation of the rotation assist member 1110 relative to the connecting portion 713. Therefore, the rotation assist member 1110, bolt 1121a and nut 1121b, and bolt 1122a and nut 1122b all function as a rotational portion 714 between the mounting portion 711 and the connecting portion 713.

In this way, the rotating part 714 is provided between the mounting part 711 and the connecting part 713, and between the connecting part 713 and the support part 712, allowing at least one of the connecting part 713 and the support part 712 to rotate around an axis in at least one of the vertical or horizontal directions. Therefore, for example, by operating the rotating part 714, the connecting part 713 can connect the mounting part 711 and the support part 712 when the mounting part 711 is attached to the ceiling 703, and position the information processing device 100 in a position where the display screen 102 of the information processing device 100 can be viewed by elevator occupants inside the car 703.

Furthermore, the suspension device 710 may omit the connecting portion 713 and directly connect the mounting portion 711 and the support portion 712. In this case, it is preferable to provide a rotating portion 714 between the mounting portion 711 and the support portion 712. Alternatively, the connecting portion 713 may be formed integrally with either the mounting portion 711 or the support portion 712.

In any case, as long as the suspension device 710 is configured to suspend the information processing device 100 from the ceiling 703, the structure of the suspension device 710 can be anything. Therefore, its design can vary widely. Below, another configuration of the suspension device 710 will be described using Figures 13 and 14.

(Another example of installation of information processing equipment within a cage (Part 1))
Figure 13 is an explanatory diagram showing another example of the installation of an information processing device in a cage according to an embodiment of the present invention. In Figure 13, the mounting portion 711 is attached near the center of the ceiling 703 (the center or near the center). By being attached near the center, the information processing device 100 can move efficiently within the space of the cage 701. In addition, by attaching the mounting portion 711 in a position that avoids the lighting 1301 and the like provided on the ceiling 703, the ceiling 703 can be used effectively. Therefore, the mounting portion 711 does not have to be near the center of the ceiling 703.

In Figure 13, there are two connecting parts (connecting parts 713a and 713b) attached to one mounting part 711, and each connecting part 713a and 713b has support parts 712a and 712b (712a and 712b are not shown). Each of the two support parts 712a and 712b supports the information processing devices 100a and 100b. Although Figure 13 shows two information processing devices 100a and 100b, there may be three or more information processing devices.

The mounting portion 711, attached near the center of the ceiling 703, connects the connecting portions 713a and 713b, respectively, via a pivot portion 714a that can rotate around vertical and horizontal axes. Furthermore, the connecting portion 713 connects two connecting members via the pivot portion 714b. Additionally, there are pivot portions (not shown) between the support portion 712a and the connecting portion 713a, and between the support portion 712b and the connecting portion 713b. Therefore, the information processing device 100, while suspended from the ceiling 703, can freely change its position within the space of the elevator car 701, allowing the display screen 102 to be oriented at any angle. This ensures that the display screen 102 is visible to passengers regardless of their location within the elevator car 701.

Furthermore, in Figure 13, the rotation and stopping of each rotating part 714a and 714b are controlled by the rotation control unit 952. Moreover, the rotation control unit 952 is controlled remotely or by instructions from the information processing device 100. Therefore, the information processing device 100 can automatically change its position without manual contact, and the angle of the display screen can also be changed automatically.

Depending on the content of the information displayed, the position of the information processing device 100 and the orientation of the display screen 102 (horizontal and vertical angle adjustment) can be changed, allowing for more effective information (especially advertising information) to be provided to the passengers of the elevator car 701. Furthermore, by moving the information processing device 100 while displaying information according to its content, effective information can also be provided. Since there are multiple information processing devices 100, different information can be displayed to each passenger, positioned near them.

Furthermore, the longitudinal lengths of the connecting members 713a and 713b, as well as the number of connecting members, can be freely changed. This allows for the provision of more diverse information based on the state of the basket 701 and the content of the various information to be displayed. Additionally, the connecting members may be configured to be expandable and contractible, for example, extending when necessary and retracting when not needed.

(Another example of the installation of an information processing device within a cage (Part 2))
Figure 14 is an explanatory diagram showing another example of the installation of an information processing device according to the embodiment of this invention within a cage. In Figure 14, the mounting part 711 is attached near the center of the ceiling 703 (the center or near the center). By being attached near the center, it can be moved efficiently within the space of the cage 701. In addition, by attaching it in a position that avoids the lighting 1301 and the like, the ceiling 703 can be used effectively.

Under normal circumstances, the connecting section 713 is folded, and the information processing device 100 is positioned as shown in Figures 7A and 7C, for example. Figure 14 shows a scenario where a passenger is trapped inside the elevator car or becomes ill inside the elevator, with the occupant 1400 sitting on the floor 705 inside the car 701.

When such a situation occurs, the front camera 903 or rear camera 904 of the information processing device 100 recognizes the state of the occupant 1400 and the position of the occupant 1400 inside the cage 701, calculates the position to which the information processing device 100 should move, and generates rotation control signals for each rotating part 714 based on the calculation result. As a result, as shown in Figure 14, the information processing device 100 automatically moves to a position close to the occupant 1400 and stops. Regardless of their posture, the occupant 1400 can easily view the display screen 102 and collect necessary information. They can also input necessary information from the touch panel on the display screen 102. The movement of the information processing device 100 can also be controlled by an operator from the remote monitoring device 930. In this case, the operator operating the remote monitoring device 930 can display their own image on the display screen 102 of the information processing device 100 and conduct a video call face-to-face with the occupant 1400. The occupant 1400 can also input information using the touch panel.

(Processing procedure of the information processing device 100)
Figure 15 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing procedure of an information processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, it shows the processing procedure of how the control unit 1000 of the information processing device 100 drives the rotating unit 714 to change the position of the information processing device 100. In the flowchart of Figure 15, first, it is determined whether or not there is an occupant in the elevator car (step S1501). If there is no occupant (step S1501: No), the series of processes is terminated.

In step S1501, if there are crew members present (crew members have boarded) (step S1501: Yes), it is determined whether the number of crew members who have boarded is less than or equal to a predetermined number, specifically two or fewer (step S1502). If the number is not less than or equal to the predetermined number (step S1502: No), the series of processes ends. In other words, if the number is greater than the predetermined number, the position of the information processing device 100 is not moved.

If the number of passengers who board is less than or equal to the predetermined number (Step S1502: Yes), the system recognizes the position, orientation (direction they are facing), and posture (standing or crouching) of each passenger within the cage 701 (Step S1503). Furthermore, it is desirable to also recognize their eye level (whether they are adults, children, or in wheelchairs, etc.).

Next, it is determined whether the crew member is in a position to view the display screen 102 (step S1504). Whether the crew member is in a position to view the display screen 102 can be determined from the crew member's position, orientation, and posture, and the current position and orientation of the information processing device 100. If the crew member is in a position to view the display screen 102 (step S1504: Yes), the series of processes is terminated. That is, if the crew member is in a position to view the display screen 102, the position of the information processing device 100 is not moved.

On the other hand, if the occupant is not in a position to view the display screen 102 (step S1504: No), the movement position of the information processing device 100 is calculated (step S1505). This movement position is the position of the information processing device 100 that allows the occupant to view the display screen 102. Then, control signals for each motor to move to the calculated position are generated (step S1506). The motor control signals are control signals for each rotating part 714 that determine how much to rotate (forward/reverse) the motor to move the information processing device 100 to the movement position. After that, the generated control signals are output (transmitted) to the suspension device 710 (step S1507).

Next, it is determined whether the occupant has moved within the cage 701 (step S1508). That is, if the occupant moves within the cage 701, there is a risk that the occupant may not be able to see the display screen 102 from the position where the information processing device 100 was moved. Therefore, if the occupant moves, the position of the information processing device must be re-determined. If the occupant has moved (step S1508: Yes), the process returns to step S1503, and the occupant's position, orientation, and posture are recognized again. Steps S1503 to S1508 are then repeatedly executed.

On the other hand, if the crew is not moving (step S1508: No), it is determined whether or not a termination instruction has been received from the crew (step S1509). That is, if the crew indicates that they no longer wish to view the display screen 102 (or do not need to view it), the information processing device 100 must be withdrawn from its position. If a termination instruction is received at this point (step S1509: Yes), the process proceeds to step S1511.

On the other hand, if no termination instruction has been received (step S1509: No), it is determined whether the door has opened or not (step S1510). If the door has opened, it is expected that the crew will exit (be rescued) the cage 701, and therefore, it can be determined that information provision by the information processing device 100 is unnecessary. If the door has not opened (step S1510: No), the process returns to step S1508. If the door has opened (step S1510: Yes), the process proceeds to step S1511.

In step S1511, control signals for each motor are generated to return to the initial position (step S1511). Then, control signals for each motor are output to move to the calculated position (step S1512). This allows the information processing device 100 to withdraw from the moving position and move back to its original position (home position). This completes the series of processes.

In this way, the information processing device 100 can freely change its position and angle within the cage 701, effectively providing various types of information. Furthermore, by freely changing the position and angle of the information processing device 100 within the cage 701, it can effectively collect various types of information within the cage 701.

As described above, the suspension device 710 according to this embodiment of the invention is a suspension device for an elevator car, comprising: a mounting portion 711 attached to the ceiling 703 of the elevator car 701; a support portion 712 for supporting an information processing device 100 having a display screen 102; and a connecting portion 713 that connects the mounting portion 711 and the support portion 712, positioning the information processing device 100 in a location within the car 701 where the display screen 102 can be viewed by elevator occupants.

This configuration allows the information processing device 100, which provides various types of information including images, to be retrofitted and suspended from the ceiling 703 of the elevator car 701. This enables effective use of the ceiling 703 of the car 701. Furthermore, since the information processing device 100 does not need to be mounted on the side wall, the side wall can also be effectively utilized.

Furthermore, by suspending the information processing device 100 from the ceiling 703, the flexibility of installing the information processing device 100 inside the elevator car 701 can be improved, and the visibility of various information displayed on the display screen 102 of the information processing device 100 inside the elevator car 701 can be further improved. Also, when using the camera function of the information processing device 100 to photograph the inside of the elevator car 701, it becomes easier to secure a shooting angle, thus ensuring that the situation inside the elevator car 701 is reliably photographed. Therefore, it is possible to provide elevator occupants with more comfortable information and to photograph the inside of the elevator car 701 more reliably, thereby enabling effective information provision and collection within the elevator car.

Furthermore, the suspension device 710 according to this embodiment of the invention includes a pivot portion 714a provided between the mounting portion 711 and the connecting portion 713, and between the connecting portion 713 and the support portion 712, which allows at least one of the connecting portion 713 and the support portion 712 to rotate around an axis in at least one of the vertical or horizontal directions.

Furthermore, the suspension device 710 according to this embodiment of the invention further includes a connecting portion 713 composed of multiple connected connecting members, and a rotating portion 714b provided at at least one location between the connecting members, which allows the connecting members to rotate around at least one axis in either the vertical or horizontal direction.

By equipping the device with rotating parts 714a and 714b in this manner, the position and orientation (angle) of the information processing device 100, which has a display screen 102, can be freely changed while it is mounted on the ceiling 703 of the elevator.

Furthermore, the suspension device 710 according to this embodiment of the invention also includes a rotation control unit 952 that controls the rotation and stopping of the rotation of the rotating parts 714 (714a, 714b). Therefore, the positioning and orientation changes (horizontal and vertical angle adjustments) of the information processing device 100 can be performed without manual intervention.

Furthermore, in the embodiment of this invention, the suspension device 710 is controlled by the rotation control unit 952 via remote operation or by instructions from the information processing device 100. Therefore, the method of providing various types of information and the shooting angle can be flexibly changed according to the situation inside the cage 701, enabling more effective information provision and collection within the cage 701.

Furthermore, in the embodiment of this invention, the suspension device 710 supports the information processing device 100 by fixing the support portion 712 to the side opposite to the side on which the display screen 102 of the information processing device 100 is provided. Therefore, the suspension device 710 can prevent the display of the display screen 102 of the information processing device 100 from being obstructed.

Furthermore, in the suspension device 710 according to this embodiment of the invention, the support portion 712 is fixed to the information processing device 100 by screws 1102 (1102a to 1102c), thus more reliably supporting the information processing device 100 and preventing it from falling. However, methods other than screw fastening (for example, magnets or welding) may also be used.

Furthermore, in the suspension device 710 according to this embodiment of the invention, since at least one mounting portion 711 is attached to the four corners of the ceiling 703 or near the four corners, the space of the ceiling 703 can be utilized more effectively. Since at least one mounting portion 711 is attached, two or more may be attached.

Furthermore, in the suspension device 710 according to this embodiment of the invention, since at least one mounting portion 711 is attached to the center of the ceiling 703 or near the center, the information processing device 100 can be efficiently moved to every corner of the cage 701. Since at least one mounting portion 711 is attached, two or more may be attached.

Furthermore, in this invention, the suspension device for elevator cars has a mounting portion 711 that is attached to the ceiling 703 by screws 1101 (1101a to 1101c). This allows for more secure suspension of the suspension device 710 and the information processing device 100, preventing them from falling. However, other methods of attachment (such as magnets or welding) may also be used.

Furthermore, the suspension device 710 according to this embodiment of the invention has multiple support parts 713 attached to a single mounting part 711, and each of the multiple support parts supports an information processing device 100 (100a, 100b). This facilitates the installation of the mounting part 711 and allows for efficient use of the space on the ceiling 703 where the device is installed. Additionally, since multiple information processing devices 100 are suspended, they can be used to provide and collect information more effectively.

Furthermore, the elevator car display device according to this embodiment of the invention includes an information processing device 100 having a display screen 102 for displaying various information, including images, within the elevator car 701; a suspension device 710 comprising a mounting portion 711 attached to the ceiling 703 of the car 701; a support portion 712 for supporting the information processing device 100; and a connecting portion 713 that connects the mounting portion 711 and the support portion 712, positioning the information processing device 100 in a location within the car 701 where the display screen 102 can be viewed by elevator occupants. Therefore, the ceiling 703 can be effectively utilized, and more effective information can be provided using the information processing device 100 with the display screen 102.

Furthermore, in the elevator car display device according to this embodiment of the invention, the information processing device 100 is composed of a tablet-type terminal device equipped with a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 901, a memory 902, and a communication interface 905. Therefore, a display device and security camera can be realized using a general-purpose device without the need to separately develop and manufacture specialized equipment for the elevator.

Furthermore, the suspension method according to this embodiment of the invention utilizes a suspension device 710 comprising a mounting portion 711 attached to the ceiling 703 of the elevator car 701, a support portion 712 for supporting the information processing device 100 having a display screen 102, and a connecting portion 713 connecting the mounting portion 711 and the support portion 712. This allows the information processing device 100 to be suspended from the ceiling 703 so that elevator occupants can view the display screen 102 inside the car 701. This enables effective utilization of the ceiling 703 of the car 701, and also allows for effective information provision and collection within the car using the information processing device 100.

As described above, the elevator car suspension device, elevator car display device, and suspension method according to this invention are useful for suspending an information processing device having a display screen from the ceiling of an elevator car, and are particularly suitable for elevator car suspension devices, elevator car display devices, and suspension methods that can provide various types of information to occupants inside the elevator car.

100 Information processing device 101 Enclosure 101a Rear view 101b Front view 102 Display screen (display)
103 Front lens 104 Speaker 105 Status indicator LED
105a LED lamp 201 Power button 202 Operation button 203 Rear cover 204 Rear lens 205 Power switch for port 206 External antenna mounting hole 207 Screw hole 208 AC power connector 209 AC power cable fixing component 210 Cover 501 Power supply plug 502 Cable 701 (Elevator) car 702 (Car) door 703 (Car) ceiling 704a-704d (Car) inner wall surface 705 (Car) floor surface 706 Control panel 707 Plug socket 710 Suspension device 711 Mounting part 712 Support part 713 Connecting part 714 Rotating part 901 CPU
902 Memory 903 Front Camera 904 Rear Camera 905 Communication Interface
906 Microphone 907 Vibration sensor 908 Illuminance sensor 909 Power control unit 930 Remote monitoring device 951 Communication interface
952 Drive circuit (rotation control unit)
953 Motor 1000 Control Unit 1001 Imaging Unit 1002 Imaging Information Storage Unit 1003 Power Supply Unit 1004 Energy Storage Unit 1005 Power Monitoring Unit 1006 Power Supply Control Unit 1007 Advertising Information Receiving Unit 1008 Advertising Information Storage Unit 1009 Display Unit 1010 Advertising Information Display Control Unit 1011 Receiving Unit 1012 Transmitting Units 1101a-1101c Screw (Bolt)
1102a-1102d Screws (Bolts)
1400 crew members

Claims (12)

A mounting part that is attached to the ceiling of the elevator car or near the said ceiling,
A support unit for supporting an information processing device having a display screen,
A connecting portion that connects the mounting portion and the support portion, and positions the information processing device in a position within the elevator car where the elevator occupant can view the display screen,
A rotating part is provided between the mounting part and the connecting part, and between the connecting part and the support part, and allows at least one of the connecting part and the support part to rotate around an axis in at least one of the vertical and horizontal directions.
A rotation control unit that controls the rotation and stopping of the rotation of the rotating part,
A suspension device for elevator cars, characterized by having the following features. The aforementioned connecting portion is composed of a plurality of connected connecting members,
The elevator car suspension device according to claim 1, characterized in that it is provided at least one location between the connecting members and includes a rotating part that allows the connecting members to rotate around at least one axis in the vertical or horizontal direction. The elevator car suspension device according to claim 1 or 2 , characterized in that the rotation control unit is controlled by remote operation or by instructions from the information processing device. The elevator car suspension device according to any one of claims 1 to 3 , characterized in that the support portion is fixed to the opposite side of the information processing device from the side on which the display screen is provided, thereby supporting the information processing device. The elevator car suspension device according to any one of claims 1 to 4 , characterized in that the support portion is fixed to the information processing device by a screw. The elevator car suspension device according to any one of claims 1 to 5 , characterized in that at least one of the mounting parts is attached to the four corners of the ceiling or near the four corners. The elevator car suspension device according to any one of claims 1 to 5 , characterized in that at least one of the mounting parts is attached to the central part of the ceiling or near the central part. The elevator car suspension device according to any one of claims 1 to 7 , characterized in that the mounting portion is attached to the ceiling or near the ceiling by screws. A mounting part that is attached to the ceiling of the elevator car or near the said ceiling,
A support unit for supporting an information processing device having a display screen,
A connecting portion that connects the mounting portion and the support portion, and positions the information processing device in a position within the elevator car where the elevator occupant can view the display screen,
Equipped with,
A suspension device for an elevator car, characterized in that it has a plurality of support parts for a single mounting part, and each of the plurality of support parts supports the information processing device. An information processing device having a display screen that displays various information including images inside the elevator car,
A suspension device comprising: a mounting portion attached to the ceiling of the elevator car or near the ceiling; a support portion for supporting the information processing device; a connecting portion connecting the mounting portion and the support portion, positioning the information processing device in a location within the elevator car where the display screen can be viewed; a rotating portion provided between the mounting portion and the connecting portion, and between the connecting portion and the support portion, allowing at least one of the connecting portion and the support portion to rotate around an axis in at least one of the vertical and horizontal directions; and a rotation control unit for controlling the rotation and stopping of the rotation of the rotating portion .
A display device for elevator cars, characterized by having the following features. The elevator car display device according to claim 10 , characterized in that the information processing device is composed of a tablet-type terminal device equipped with a CPU (Central Processing Unit), memory, and a communication interface. A suspension device comprising: a mounting part to be attached to the ceiling of an elevator car or near the ceiling; a support part for supporting an information processing device having a display screen; a connecting part connecting the mounting part and the support part; a rotating part provided between the mounting part and the connecting part, and between the connecting part and the support part, which allows at least one of the connecting part and the support part to rotate around an axis in at least one of the vertical and horizontal directions; and a rotation control unit that controls the rotation and stopping of the rotation of the rotating part ,
A suspension method characterized by suspending the information processing device from the ceiling so that the passengers of the elevator can view the display screen inside the elevator car.