Emerging Technologies in Elevator Installation

New emerging technologies have revolutionized processes in different industries. Virtual reality, artificial intelligence, and many other technologies are changing the dynamics forever. Such technologies have also made their mark in the elevator industry. These new techs are being embraced by the industry for increased efficiency, cost savings, convenience, and improved safety standards. Here are two new technologies in this industry that are revolutionizing how elevators are installed.

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Maglev Technology – Horizontal & Vertical Elevators

Maglev technology has been mostly associated with trains. But the tech is now also making its way into the world of elevators. There are two ways in which it is changing how elevators work:

• Firstly, by allowing cable-free operation
• Secondly, by allowing both horizontal and vertical movement

This new technology makes use of linear motors for moving cabins through shafts. The concept of Maglev elevators was first introduced in Germany and has also undergone testing with a prototype model. The elevator moves on rails that work as linear motors. The cabins are moved using magnetic fields. The rails rotate to change directions between horizontal and vertical movements.

The linear motor-based tech, if it becomes fully operational, can also help address an issue that has been prevalent in elevators used in high-rise buildings. Standard cable designs have a limitation of rising up to 1,600 feet in a single stretch. This requires that multiple elevator shafts be installed to allow users to reach the top. But Maglev elevators can resolve this issue by providing lots of flexibility.

Buildings can be designed with more flexibility. Architects will not have to restrict the building shape based on the limitations of traditional elevator shafts. The Maglev technology can also free up valuable space. It is also expected that this innovative tech can allow multiple buildings to be connected through elevators.

Use of Virtual Reality Simulators for Installation Training

While Maglev is a groundbreaking development in elevator operation, virtual reality-based training simulators are changing the way elevators are installed. This tech involves an efficient simulation environment where trainers can experience the installation process.

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How does this technology work?

This technology uses virtual reality to create a 3D model of the elevator components. The different objectives include:

• Supporting learners to complete assembly of the elevator space
• Educate them about the standards
• Training to properly understand the installation technology
• Educate them on safety

Advantages of Using Virtual Reality

There are many ways in which this new technology can make elevator installation more efficient and safer.

• Versatile Training: Virtual reality-based installation systems can be set for different operational conditions.

• Safety: It can simulate the exact operational environment without putting the installation team at risk. The installers can gather all the required knowledge while conducting safety risk evaluation before actually beginning the process.

• Cost Savings: Better, efficient, and safer pre-planning means more cost savings when it comes to actual elevator installation.

• Better Evaluation: Another advantage of using this technology is that it allows the evaluation of new team members. Installers can continue training until they are proficient in the process.

This virtual reality-based technology is also ‘expandable’. It can be upgraded with the ever-changing market demands. As new elevator technologies, installation processes, and safety standards are introduced in the industry, this technology can easily adapt to the changes.

There are many other areas where new emerging technologies are being developed for the elevator installation. These other areas include augmented reality, artificial intelligence (AI), intelligent sensors, robotics, building information modeling (BIM), 3D scanning, radio-frequency identification, and holography. These technologies are expected to make the industry and its processes more efficient, cost-effective, and safer in the near future.

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Written by Allwin Malson. August 10, 2018

Allwin an experienced professional in the Alberta elevator installation market. He specializes in the installation of both Commercial and Residential Elevators. He is a strong proponent of using the latest, innovative technologies for making the systems more energy-efficient and convenient for the homeowners, businesses, and the masses.