Abstract

An improved operating panel device for an elevator system is disclosed which can be constructed with a limited depth, and which involves no mechanically operating parts at those portions which are to be manipulated by passengers, providing a substantially extended service life, and which is also durable and relatively immune to vandalism or rough operation by passengers. The operating panel device comprises: an indicator panel having a plurality of indication marks described thereon; a plurality of first light-emitting elements for emitting light signals which pass along a surface of the indicator panel across the indication marks; and a plurality of light-receiving elements for receiving the light signals from the first light-emitting elements whereby when at least one of the light signals emitted from the first light-emitting elements passing across a specific one of the indication marks on the indicator panel is selectively interrupted, the light-receiving elements detects such a selective interruption of the at least one light signal and sends out to an appropriate control system an operation command signal corresponding to the specific indication mark.