Method and apparatus for a scanning an elevator entry way

A lift system for and method of controlling a lift car. The car providing service to a number of separate stations to enable a person or an article waiting in a predetermined region outside the lift car to enter or leave the lift car. The method including the steps of providing the lift car a scanning device directed outwardly from the lift car. Each of the stations having an independent scanning extension. When the lift car arrives at one of the stations equipped with a scanning device, the scanning device and the scanning extension are juxtaposed to form an operable combination. Scanning the predetermined region with the operable combination to produce an output signal representing a state of the predetermined region, such as whether the region is occupied or not. Using the signal or a function of the signal to regulate subsequent operation of the lift car.