Moving Sideways
German engineering and passenger lifts specialists ThyssenKrupp recently announced that it will begin intensively researching technologies using linear mechanisms rather that vertical cable mechanisms to move passenger lifts. Their new concept, currently known as Multi, is designed to move passenger cabins both vertically and horizontally around a building. The company claims this new technology, which will use magnets and deliver a capsule in 30 seconds or less, will boost capacities by up to 50% while at the same time dramatically reducing the lift’s footprint.
What Are the Advantages?
Research shows New York City office workers spend around 17 years of their lives waiting for lifts. A lift which will arrive immediately is therefore a very practical idea. Furthermore, by using magnets instead of ropes and counterweights, much less energy is required, making the lifts more sustainable. Magnets would also allow tall buildings to use just one lift system, meaning lifts to higher floors would not need to be staggered. Visitors would then reach their floor quicker.
Is the Idea Realistic?
While our current idea of the system may be reminiscent of something out of Willy Wonka and the Great Glass Elevator, the actual system envisioned would run on a loop. Users would essentially travel in a circle rather than just straight up and down. However, the real attraction of the idea involves the individual cabins. A similar principle is already in use. Individual driverless units are currently used to deliver goods and services around hospitals, factories and warehouses. Previous delivery systems meant any order from a storage area would be delivered in turn from the same vehicle. Individual units allow deliveries to be made more quickly and be sent straight to the recipient. ThyssenKrupp’s vision takes this system and makes it vertical and horizontal.
What Are the Disadvantages?
Most industry professionals are very excited about this new idea, but there will always be those with doubts. Naturally, when we imagine a lift that goes not just up and down but from side to side, we imagine being able to be transported not just to the right floor but also the right department or even the right apartment. No more searching for the right door: simply key in your destination and go. However, if the loops that residential lifts rode on could do this, the footprint would be enormous.
Influencing the Architecture of the Future
One important aspect of this new technology is the question of how it will influence architectural design in the future. The design of lifts does currently dictate a preference for taller, slimmer buildings, but so do the cost of land and city design specifications. While many theorise that this could lead to some outrageous designs, these would only be feasible where land and other building materials are cheap. What’s more, egress routes to comply with fire safety regulations would still need to be of the same type as they are currently.
About the Author
This article was written by the Platform Lift Company, design, manufacturing and installation of bespoke platform lifts.
