Operational modes for multicar hoistway systems

A method of controlling a ropeless elevator system comprising a plurality of elevator cars configured to travel in a hoistway having a plurality of lanes and a propulsion system to impart force to each elevator car of the plurality of elevator cars, the method comprising:

• operating in an in-group mode where the plurality of elevator cars perform service demands;
• and
• selectively operating in a first out-of-group mode, a second out-of-group mode, a third out-of-group mode, a fourth out-of-group mode, and a fifth out-of-group mode where at least one selected elevator car of the plurality of elevator cars performs a predetermined task and is prevented from performing the in-group mode service demands,
• wherein operating in the first out-of-group mode comprises:
• reserving at least two designated areas on the hoistway;
• allowing elevator car traffic that must go through the designated area to serve the service demands assigned thereto prior to switching to the out-of-group mode;
• and
• directing at least one selected car to each designated area of the at least two designated areas;
• wherein operating in the second out-of-group mode comprises:
• receiving schedule information for future use of the elevator system;
• and
• devising, based on the received schedule information, a predefined path for the at least one selected elevator car such that the at least one selected elevator car meets a demand of the future use with minimal conflict between selected elevator cars;
• wherein operating in the third out-of-group mode comprises:
• assigning a specific task to the at least one selected elevator car;
• receiving information regarding operational constraints and capabilities of the at least one selected elevator car assigned to the specific task;
• and
• performing the specific task by operating the at least one selected elevator car in a predetermined manner within the received operational constraints and capabilities;
• wherein operating in the fourth out-of group mode comprises:
• assigning a specific task to at least two selected elevator cars;
• moving the at least two selected elevator cars to a preparation area such that the at least two selected elevator cars can be prepared to perform the specific task;
• and
• performing the specific task by simultaneously operating the at least two selected elevator cars in collaboration and in a predetermined manner within the received operational constraints and capabilities;
• wherein operating in the fifth out-of-group mode comprises:
• defining a one-way circulation path around the plurality of lanes, the one-way circulation path configured to move the at least one selected elevator car in an upward direction, a horizontal direction, and a downward direction;
• and
• assigning the at least one selected elevator car to the one-way circulation path for circulation exclusively therein during the out-of group mode.