Review

Elevator Technology Improvements: A Snapshot

Kheir Al-Kodmany

Department of Urban Planning and Policy, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60607, USA;
kheir@uic.edu

Abstract: Efficient vertical transportation is vital to a skyscraper’s functional operation and the con-
venience and satisfaction of its tenants. This review complements the author’s previously published
research by updating the readers on innovative hardware and software-based solutions. It lays out,
organizes, and combines extensive and scattered material on numerous aspects of elevator design in
a straightforward and non-technical narrative. Rope-less elevators, the MULTI, artificial intelligence
(AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and extended reality technologies are some of the developments and
advancements this article examines. The analysis also contextualizes current technical developments
by reviewing how they are used in significant projects such as the One World Trade Center in New
York City. Lastly, the paper examines innovative technologies, such as holographic elevator buttons
and ultraviolet rays that disinfect elevators, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Keywords: basic systems; advanced systems; long distances; smart solutions

1. Introduction
1.1. Background
One hundred fifty years ago, cities appeared significantly different than they do
today. Often, the cityscape was flat and uniformly patterned. The heights of residential
and commercial structures were rarely as tall as flagpoles. However, today, cities are
growing vertically. Population increases, rapid urban regeneration, rising land prices,
Citation: Al-Kodmany, K. Elevator active agglomeration, ego, and globalization drive building upward. Indeed, the race to
Technology Improvements: A build the world’s highest skyscraper seems to go on forever, reaching ever-impressive
Snapshot. Encyclopedia 2023, 3, heights. Around the beginning of the new Millennium, in 1998, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia,
530–548. https://doi.org/10.3390/ built the 452 m (1483 ft) Petronas Towers, snatching the title of the world’s tallest building
encyclopedia3020038
from the 442 m (1450 ft) Sears Tower (renamed Willis Tower) constructed in 1973 in Chicago.
Academic Editors: Krzysztof In 2004, Taipei, Taiwan, erected the 508 m (1667 ft) Taipei 101. In 2010, Dubai, UAE, built
Kamil Żur, Raffaele Barretta, the 828 m (2717 ft) Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest. As such, in just 12 years, the height of
Ramesh Agarwal and Giuseppe Ruta the tallest building almost doubled [1,2].
Besides globalization and land prices, the rapid increase in urban population forces
Received: 12 March 2023
cities to build upward. The United Nations predicts that 70% of the world population in
Revised: 12 April 2023
2050, about 9.7 billion, will live in urban areas, up from 51% in 2010. Such an increase
Accepted: 20 April 2023
entails adding almost a quarter million urban dwellers globally every week. To expand
Published: 24 April 2023
cities horizontally to accommodate urban population increase, we will face sprawl prob-
lems. Sprawl has caused numerous economic, social, and environmental crises and is an
unsustainable way to grow. After learning the hard lessons of urban sprawl ills, planners
Copyright: © 2023 by the author. have reverted to the vertical and compact model [3]. As such, since the turn of the century,
Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland. many cities have been erecting high-rises worldwide.
This article is an open access article High-rise buildings consume more energy than low-rise buildings for many reasons,
distributed under the terms and including the employment of vertical transportation. Elevators use between 5 and 15% of a
conditions of the Creative Commons high-rise building’s power, so efforts to reduce their energy consumption are worthwhile.
Attribution (CC BY) license (https:// Further, elevators use significant valuable space in a skyscraper. Sometimes, they may oc-
creativecommons.org/licenses/by/ cupy 25–40% of the floor plans. Of course, this figure includes all elevators (e.g., passenger,
4.0/).

Encyclopedia 2023, 3, 530–548. https://doi.org/10.3390/encyclopedia3020038 https://www.mdpi.com/journal/encyclopedia

Encyclopedia 2023, 3 531

freight, emergency, and shuttle). Therefore, reducing the required space and number of
shafts is a sought-after goal in elevator design [1].

1.2. New Elevator Systems

Like automobiles and rail transport, elevators are becoming increasingly high-tech,
pushing manufacturers to improve elevator speed and safety. The development of elevator
speed has been astounding. If we compare the speed of the first passenger elevators
(12 m per minute) to that of the world’s fastest elevators (1200 m per minute) located at
the CTF Finance Center in Guangzhou, China, the speed has increased one hundredfold.
For improving passenger flow, destination dispatching systems are most efficient. When
passengers click buttons corresponding to their desired floors, the system directs them to
the elevators with the shortest travel times. Enhanced routing will result in more efficient
passenger transfer, especially during peak traffic in hotels, residences, and offices. Further,
new systems allow building managers to program elevators to correspond most efficiently
to passengers’ demands throughout the week, day, night, and holidays.
As time passes, elevators are becoming more intelligent and safer. Modern elevators
provide smooth, comfortable journeys for passengers while covering greater distances,
reducing the need to use transfer or sky lobbies. They are also energy-efficient; some
produce energy, such as the regenerative drive. New design promises to make elevators
move not only up and down but also sideways and diagonally. Such innovative design will
revolutionize the architecture and layout of high-rise developments. It will allow buildings
to achieve more excellent connectivity and improve people flow.
However, building elevators are not an exception to the harsh reality that everything
eventually wears out and must be replaced. Even with routine maintenance, old machinery
always requires updates. Modernizing elevators is a feasible way to increase the value
and appeal of a tall building. Intelligent elevator systems provide enhanced travel com-
fort and the flexibility to adapt to changing building requirements, thereby enhancing
performance [4,5].
Internet-connected elevators represent the cutting edge of elevator maintenance. This
technology notifies building managers in real-time when a problem is beginning to develop.
This is intended to reduce maintenance expenses and save time. Sensors gather data on
variables, such as usage, that can impact the deterioration of components. The data are
sent to a cloud-based platform for processing and analysis, enabling building managers to
apply proactive measures, preventing problems from occurring.

1.3. Goals and Objectives

Any elevator design and production improvement will significantly impact expendi-
tures, customer satisfaction, and the natural environment. This article explores contempo-
rary advancements in the elevator sector to educate the wider community of engineering
and architectural students and professionals. It explores the development of elevator
technology and considers how it affects their construction and upkeep. It compiles and
organizes detailed and fragmented knowledge on various elevator design topics in a clear
and non-technical discourse.
The specific goals of this paper are to answer important questions concerning elevator
design and development as follows:
• What are the essential components and operational systems of an elevator?
• What are the new advances in elevator systems?
• What are project examples of mega- and supertall buildings that incorporate sophisti-
cated elevator systems?
• What are the retrofitting and modernization options for elevators?
Overall, this paper aims to simplify complex engineering concepts and make them
accessible to a broad audience, a fundamental objective of the Engineering Encyclopedia.
Encyclopedia 2023, 3 532

2. The Basics
2.1. Notes on Elevator History
Humans have used hoists for vertical transportation since the third century BCE.
The ancient Greeks allegedly invented elevators using pulleys and winches. However,
modern elevators, such as those we know today, were developed in the 1800s. In the 1850s,
elevator design shifted from carrying goods to carrying people, and the first elevator safety
devices were invented in 1852. The development of safety devices paved the way for the
advancement of passenger elevators [6].
In 1857, the first passenger elevator was constructed. This elevator was steam-powered
and moved at a leisurely 12 m (40 ft) per minute. Early passenger elevators were considered
more of a spectacle and luxury experience than a mode of transportation. Because tall
buildings were not yet built, higher floors had lower rents due to the need to climb stairs to
access these units—a stark contrast to today’s high-priced penthouse units.
In the 1870s, elevators evolved from a novelty experience reserved for a select few to
a transportation staple. As buildings became taller and taller, increased elevator speeds
became the driving force behind elevator innovation. The first elevator-equipped office
building was built in Downtown Manhattan in 1870, marking the beginning of widespread,
practical elevator history.
As mentioned, elevators were initially powered by steam. However, as they were in-
stalled in office buildings and speed became a priority, they gradually evolved to hydraulic
power. Around this time, the industry standard of 30 s or less wait times was established,
and it is still the industry standard today [6].
Elevator safety and speed advanced even further when electricity became the primary
power source for elevators. Elevator shafts had become an integral part of architectural
design by the 1880s as buildings rose in height. Hence, in 1880, the first electric elevator
was built, and in 1887, automatic doors were produced that locked off the vehicle from
the shaft, making elevators a safer mode of transportation for passengers. In a commercial
building in 1889, the first successful electric elevator was installed.
In 1902, the Otis Elevator Company created the electric traction elevator, a significant
breakthrough. This innovation ingeniously integrated the electrical and mechanical subsys-
tems of an elevator. In 1904, the first elevators of this type were installed in a commercial
building in New York City. Vertical transportation became safer and more convenient
than ever before as elevators evolved and expanded to include more advanced safety and
efficiency features [6].

2.2. Essential Terminologies

Essential terminologies must be clarified before diving into elevator mechanical and
electrical systems [1,2,4–6].
Hoistway. This is the vertical enclosure that runs through a structure and is sometimes
referred to as an elevator shaft. Within this enclosure an elevator car travels.
Car. This is the vehicle for transporting people and goods vertically within a structure.
The car moves along the hoistway, where it is directed by rails at the top and bottom and
propelled vertically by a mechanism that operates an elevator. It is also commonly referred
to as a cab.
Pit. This is the area inside a hoistway between the elevator’s lowest floor landing and
the hoistway floor. The pit offers the space required for the elevator to work effectively and
safely while also acting as a storage location for important elevator equipment. It has four
walls of concrete or concrete blocks and a concrete base slab.
Travel Height. This is the vertical distance an elevator travels between the building’s
lowest and highest floors. This is analogous to the number of floors serviced, except that the
height from floor to floor varies from one building to another. Additionally, floor heights
could vary in the same building. As a result, the actual height traveled is a more accurate
marker than the floor counts.
Encyclopedia 2023, 3 533

Overhead. A space within a hoistway lies between the highest-level landing that
is serviced by the elevator and the ceiling of the hoistway. It is vital to have sufficient
headroom to accommodate the elevator’s machinery and supply the space required for the
elevator to operate securely and reliably.
Bank. A cluster of two or more elevators controlled and dispatched by a single or
multiple call-button panel(s).
Elevator System. The elevator system should comply with the building code require-
ments. It should also integrate with other systems, including architectural, structural,
electrical, mechanical, plumbing, technological, and fire protection.
Lobby Floors or Sky Lobbies. These are intermediary floors of a skyscraper where
passengers switch from an express elevator to a local elevator and vice versa.
Wait Time. This is the period between calling the elevator and its arrival.

2.3. Elevator Types

In tall buildings, different basic types of elevators are often employed [4–6].
Passenger Elevator. A passenger elevator’s primary purpose is to transport people or
lightweight goods. Conventionally, passenger elevators are calculated for weight loads of
between 907 kg (2000 lb) and 2268 kg (5000 lb); however, some models are available with
higher load ratings. These weight measures correspond to car areas that range between
2.3 and 5.1 m2 (25 and 55 ft2 ). Therefore, these elevators usually take lighter loads and are
smaller than freight elevators.
Freight Elevator. These are designed to transport heavy goods and equipment. They
are characterized by doors that open vertically (such as cage doors), and they are robust but
have unsightly finishes. Individual buttons are necessary for freight elevators to call the
car and open and close the doors. Yet, a freight elevator is less automated than a standard
elevator, so the user has less control over how the elevator works.
Service Elevator. These elevators carry both people and light equipment simulta-
neously. Not to be confused with freight elevators, the shape of service elevator cars is
deep and narrow, making it easier to load long cleaning carts, supply carts, and similar
lightweight equipment. In contrast, passenger-shaped elevator cars are often shallow and
wide, making it easier for passengers to enter and exit the front of the elevator without
becoming trapped in the back. In addition to the front door, rear doors are available on
both passenger and service car designs.
Shuttle Elevator. The shuttle elevator travels rapidly between lobby floors. To reach
their desired floor, travelers switch to a local elevator on the lobby level. Connecting
high-capacity/high-speed shuttle elevators with local elevators makes traveling efficiently
throughout a tall structure possible. Not only do the elevator/shuttle systems save space,
but they also save time.
Emergency Elevator. These elevators are installed so that fire crews can reach the
upper floors to conduct necessary rescue procedures and evacuate trapped tenants. Since
other elevators (including passenger elevators) are shut during a fire incident, emergency
elevators are paramount. They are also crucial for disabled people. During fire incidents,
tenants with mobility impairments are evacuated via emergency elevators with the assis-
tance of firefighters.

2.4. Leading Elevator Companies

The booming market for elevators is fueling innovation. Table 1 displays the world’s
leading elevator companies. These businesses are all involved in research and interna-
tional trade and often report significant annual revenues. Due to its 160-year-plus service,
profundity, and successful multi-brand strategy in the global market, Otis maintains a
commanding lead over other manufacturers. Otis dates back to 1853 when Elisha Graves
Otis launched the first passenger elevator with safety features at the Crystal Palace Confer-
ence in NYC. After three years, the first passenger elevator was installed in the same city.
With its consistent and robust growth in recent years and multi-brand approach in Asia,
023, 3, FOR PEER REVIEW 5

Encyclopedia 2023, 3 534

city. With its consistent and robust growth in recent years and multi-brand approach in
Asia, Schindler continues to hold a prominent position among elevator manufacturers.
KONE and ThyssenKrupp are also to
Schindler continues pioneering elevatorposition
hold a prominent manufacturers, constantly
among elevator offering KONE
manufacturers.
the market innovative solutions. Japanese
and ThyssenKrupp are also brands are also
pioneering providing
elevator cutting-edge
manufacturers, technol-
constantly offering the
ogies and are most popular in Asia.
market innovative solutions. Japanese brands are also providing cutting-edge technologies
and are most popular in Asia.
Table 1. Leading Elevator Companies. (Source: compiled by author).
Table 1. Leading Elevator Companies. (Source: compiled by author).
Company Country
Company Country
1 Otis USA
1 Otis USA
2 Schindler Switzerland
2 Schindler Switzerland
3 KONE Finland
3 KONE Finland
4 ThyssenKrupp Germany
4 ThyssenKrupp Germany
5 Hitachi Japan
5 Hitachi Japan
6 Mitsubishi Electric Japan
6 Mitsubishi Electric Japan
7 Toshiba Elevator Japan
7 Toshiba Elevator Japan
8 Fujitec Japan
8 Fujitec Japan
9 Hyundai Elevator Korea
9 Hyundai Elevator Korea
10 Canny China
10 Canny China

2.5. Main Elevator Systems

2.5. Main Elevator Systems
There are two main types of elevator systems: hydraulic and traction. Hydraulic ele-
There are two main types of elevator systems: hydraulic and traction. Hydraulic
vators obtain power from hydraulic jacks, fluid-driven pistons inside a cylinder. In con-
elevators obtain power from hydraulic jacks, fluid-driven pistons inside a cylinder. In
trast, steel ropescontrast,
or belts are
steelwound around
ropes or pulleys
belts are andaround
wound used to operate
pulleys traction
and elevators
used to operate traction
(Figure 1). elevators (Figure 1).

Figure 1. A schematic illustration of the differences between hydraulic and traction elevators.
Figure 1. A schematic
(Source:illustration
author). of the differences between hydraulic and traction elevators.
(Source: author).
2.5.1. Hydraulic Elevators
2.5.1. Hydraulic Elevators
Throughout the second half of the twentieth century, hydraulic elevators were the
most common type of elevator mechanism used in buildings. The hydraulic elevator car
Throughout the second half of the twentieth century, hydraulic elevators were the
is propelled higher by a piston, driven upward by a pumping mechanism that pushes
most common type of elevator
hydraulic mechanism
fluid into the piston.used in buildings.
In most The hydraulic
instances, hydraulic elevator
elevators car a small
will need
is propelled higher by a piston, driven upward by a pumping mechanism that pushes
hydraulic fluid into the piston. In most instances, hydraulic elevators will need a small
chamber of around 7 m2 (75 ft2) located close to the hoistway to house either the pumping
Encyclopedia 2023, 3 535

chamber of around 7 m2 (75 ft2 ) located close to the hoistway to house either the pumping
or control units [5]. Hydraulic elevators, unlike traction elevators, do not require over-
head hoisting machinery. Their advantages include inexpensive installation, reasonable
maintenance and repair costs, and reliability for hauling heavy loads. However, hydraulic
elevators can reach a maximum speed of 46 m (150 ft) per minute. Because of their lower
velocity, they are often not recommended for tall buildings.
The term “holed” or “hole-less” describes the position of the piston in hydraulic
elevators, which determines which type of elevator it is. As such, we differentiate among
three types of hydraulic elevators:
1. A traditional hydraulic elevator with a sheave that extends below the elevator pit’s
floor. The pit holds the retracting piston as the elevator lowers. It has a maximum
travel range of 18 m (60 ft).
2. Hole-less hydraulic elevators are comparable to regular ones, except they do not need
a sheave or hole in the ground. Compared to a non-telescopic piston, the telescopic
piston design provides a travel distance of up to 15 m (50 ft).
3. In the case of the roped hydraulic elevator, the car is propelled by both ropes and
pistons. It can move a maximum of 18 m (60 ft) in one direction.

2.5.2. Traction Elevators

Lifting in traction elevators is accomplished by ropes that travel across a wheel driven
by an electric motor. The wheel is set in motion by the beginning of the electric motor’s
rotation. This pulls the rope, which raises the elevator vehicle to the appropriate building
levels. The machine room on the highest floor of the building is typically where the wheel
for this setup is kept because this is where it is most secure. The elevators are given a
counterweight to make them more efficient by countering the weight of the car and the
people riding in it. As such, this system facilitates coordination between the speed of the
wheel and the rope [6].
There are two distinct varieties of traction elevators:
1. Geared Traction Elevator: This type of traction elevator has a gearbox coupled to the
motor to drive the wheel. These elevators can travel at a speed of up to 152 m (500 ft)
per minute. The geared traction lifts have a maximum travel distance of 76 m (250 ft).
2. Gearless Traction Elevator: With this form of elevator, the wheel is connected to the
motor directly. It has a maximum travel distance of approximately 610 m (2000 ft)
and can move at a maximum speed of up to 610 m (2000 ft) per minute. It is the most
popular option for use in tall structures [1,2,6].

2.5.3. Machine Room Elevators

In machine room elevators, the traction machine and control equipment are stored in
a separate chamber, which is often situated above the hoistway. The machine room offers
good maintenance access, preserves equipment temperature ranges, and enables flexibility
to suit most performance needs. Because other types of elevators have a restricted reach,
machine room elevators are often used in tall buildings with more than 25 stops and can
travel longer distances. The two primary disadvantages of machine room elevators are the
costs of providing the machine room and the potential negative impact on the building’s
aesthetics, mainly impacting penthouses [6,7]. Machine room traction elevators are rec-
ommended for traveling 25 or more floors, while machine room-less traction elevators are
recommended for traveling up to 25 stories (see next section).

2.5.4. Machine Room-Less (MRL) Elevators

One of the most critical advancements in elevator design since the first electric ele-
vators were released a century earlier was MRL technology. Debuted in the mid-1990s,
manufacturers eliminated the need for a machine room by downsizing the motors and other
apparatus to fit inside the hoistway. Consequently, MRL is an elevator system that requires
less space [6–8] (Figure 2). Additionally, MRL uses 30–40% less energy than comparable-
 Encyclopedia2023,
Encyclopedia 2023,3 3, FOR PEER REVIEW 5367

comparable-sized
sized conventionalconventional
traction and traction
hydraulicandmotors.
hydraulic motors.
MRL’s MRL’s
reduced reduced
power power con-
consumption
sumption also results from its lower starting current need. MRL and the regenerative
also results from its lower starting current need. MRL and the regenerative drive drive
together
together significantly improve energy efficiency (see next section).
significantly improve energy efficiency (see next section).

Figure 2. Machine-Room-Less (MRL) Elevator System. (Source: author).

Figure 2. Machine-Room-Less (MRL) Elevator System. (Source: author).

3.3.Recent
RecentDevelopments
Developmentsand andAdvances
Advancesin inElevator
ElevatorSystems
Systems
3.1.Regenerative
3.1. RegenerativeDrive
Drive
The regenerative motor,
The regenerative motor, which
which enables
enables “heat”
“heat” energy
energy totobeberecycled
recycledrather
ratherthan
than
squandered,isisaacritical
squandered, criticaladvancement
advancementin inenergy-efficient
energy-efficientelevator elevatortechnology.
technology.ItItworks
worksby by
gatheringand
gathering andtransforming
transformingthe the energy
energy lost
lost during
during braking,
braking, which
which is necessary
is necessary to main-
to maintain
tainelevator’s
the the elevator’s
speed. speed. In other
In other words,words, it converts
it converts the mechanical
the mechanical “heat”
“heat” energyenergy gener-
generated
ated by braking into electrical energy (“regenerated”), which is then transferred to the
by braking into electrical energy (“regenerated”), which is then transferred to the building
building
power powerAn
system. system.
elevatorAn applies
elevatoraapplies
brake in a brake in three
three cases: (1)cases:
when(1) it when
goes up it goes
with upa
with a load of passengers lighter than the counterweight, (2) when it goes down with a
load of passengers lighter than the counterweight, (2) when it goes down with a load
ofload
passengers heavier
of passengers than than
heavier the counterweight,
the counterweight, andand(3) (3)
whenwhenit goes
it goesdown
downwithwitha aload
load
ofofpassengers
passengerslighter
lighterthan
thanthe
thecounterweight.
counterweight. In In these
thesecases,
cases,the
themotor
motorfunctions
functionsas asanan
energy
energy generator, converting mechanical energy into electrical energy and channelingitit
generator, converting mechanical energy into electrical energy and channeling
back
backinto
intothe
thefacility’s
facility’selectrical
electricalsystem.
system.Another
Anotherelevator
elevatoror orother
otherelectrical
electricaldevices
devicescan can
use the generated power. Importantly, these little quantities of energy
use the generated power. Importantly, these little quantities of energy generated generated during the
during
brakes buildbuild
the brakes up to upsignificant savings
to significant over time.
savings overRegenerative drives can
time. Regenerative lower
drives canthe energy
lower the
consumption of a building transportation system by up to 70% [8,9]. The energy needed to
energy consumption of a building transportation system by up to 70% [8,9]. The energy
run the HVAC system is also reduced because the structure and machinery exposed to the
needed to run the HVAC system is also reduced because the structure and machinery
excessive heat produced by conventional motors no longer need to be cooled in the new
exposed to the excessive heat produced by conventional motors no longer need to be
system [10]. Despite the higher costs of the generative drive model, more buildings are
cooled in the new system [10]. Despite the higher costs of the generative drive model,
embracing it due to its energy efficiency.
more buildings are embracing it due to its energy efficiency.
3.2. Elevator Rope
3.2. Elevator Rope
Because it links the elevator motor with the cab, sheaves, and counterweight, the
Because
elevator rope isitcrucial
links the elevatorelevators.
to traction motor with
Thethe cab, sheaves,
car-lifting andtied
ropes are counterweight, the el-
to a counterweight
evator
on rope side
the other is crucial
of thetosheave.
tractionAt
elevators. The of
around 40% car-lifting ropes
its capacity, are
the tied
cab is to a counterweight
balanced with the
on the other side of the sheave. At around 40% of its capacity, the cab is
counterbalance. As a result, energy is conserved. Steel ropes hold cabins. However, balanced with the
these
counterbalance. As a result, energy is conserved. Steel ropes hold cabins. However,
ropes can no longer support their own weight in very tall buildings since they become too these
ropes can no longer support their own weight in very tall buildings since they become too
Encyclopedia 2023, 3 537

long and thick. Energy consumption increases with height as the initial currents and energy
requirements rise. In response, elevator manufacturers have started making stronger cables.
Aramid fiber rope, developed by The Schindler Company, is more durable and lightweight
than a traditional steel rope. Otis created the Gen2 elevator that features polyurethane-
coated ultra-thin wires replacing steel ropes. Mitsubishi used concentric steel wire to create
a stronger, denser string. These stronger, lighter wires efficiently move elevator cabs using
less energy [11,12].
KONE’s UltraRope is among the most notable innovations. KONE is an elevator
engineering company headquartered in Espoo near Helsinki, Finland. UltraRope enables
elevator cars to travel 1000 m (3280 ft) in one run due to its carbon-fiber core and special
high-friction coating. This is twice the typical maximum of 500 m (1640 ft). Notably, the 90%
reduction in rope mass results in significant energy savings. UltraRope weighs 2500 kg for a
2000 kg (4409 lb) elevator traveling 500 m, as opposed to 27,000 kg (59,524 lb) for ultra-high
tension steel ropes. KONE UltraRope elevators will be installed in the 1000 m (3281 ft)
Jeddah Tower in Saudi Arabia (construction is on hold). In one of the tallest residential
buildings in Europe and the first to be outfitted with KONE UltraRope, South Quay Plaza
in London, UK, received eight of these elevators. The Marina Bay Sands in Singapore also
utilizes the UltraRope [13,14].

3.3. Double-Deck Elevators

The requirement for fewer elevator shafts increases with skyscraper height since they
take up valuable interior space on each story. Two stacked cabs make up a double-deck
elevator, one serving levels with even numbers and the other odd. As such, the best use
for double-deck elevators is in tall buildings, especially for shuttle services [14,15]. The
double-deck elevators, however, have specific operational issues. Visitors to the structure
are initially perplexed because each cab only has access to even or odd-numbered floors.
Often, visitors need to take an escalator to the second lobby level to go up from the ground
floor, for example. Second, both cabins must come to a complete stop, even if only one floor
needs to be reached. Third, distances between floors must be the same. To solve the third
problem, Toshiba created height-adjustable double-deck elevators, which give architects
more flexibility when employing double-deck elevators. ThyssenKrupp has created newer
technology to help in solving other problems. ThyssenKrupp is an engineering and steel
production company headquartered in Essen, Germany. It developed the TWIN system,
which enables two elevator cabs to function independently in the same shaft. The company
believes that this innovation can significantly decrease the number of elevator shafts needed
and, as a result, improve the amount of leasable space (see the following section) [15,16].

3.4. The TWIN System

The TWIN system was invented in 2003 to provide passengers and building owners
greater efficiency, flexibility, and convenience. It enables two cabins to move independently
in one shaft, saving 30% space and reducing the footprint by the same amount. Therefore,
the TWIN is an elevator system with two standard cabs installed within the same shaft
but differs from double-deck elevators in that these two cabs operate independently. The
two cabs are kept at a safe distance from one another by a gadget that measures the
distance. An automated system assigns passengers to cabs most effectively, reducing wait
times and empty journeys while conserving energy [16]. This optimizes travel for both
cabins. As previously indicated, the system enables the integration of more elevators
within fewer shafts; it is predicted to need one-third fewer shafts than traditional elevators,
freeing up valuable core space. Additionally, the TWIN system minimizes the building
materials required for shafts, reducing embodied energy. Significant power and space
savings are made possible because both elevators are controlled by a single machine in the
same shaft [17,18]. ThyssenKrupp has been a trailblazing company in the creation of this
ground-breaking system.
 Encyclopedia 2023, 3, FOR PEER REVIEW 9

in the same shaft [17,18]. ThyssenKrupp has been a trailblazing company in the creation
Encyclopedia 2023, 3 of this ground-breaking system. 538

4. Case Study: One World Trade Center, New York City, NY, USA
Advanced
4. Case Study: One elevator
World systems have been
Trade Center, Newinstalled in significant
York City, NY, USA skyscrapers. Examples
include Burj Khalifa in Dubai, UAE; One World Trade Center in New York City, USA; and
Advanced elevator systems have been installed in significant skyscrapers. Examples
Shanghai Tower in Shanghai, China. The best-case scenario would be to review each of
include Burj Khalifa in Dubai, UAE; One World Trade Center in New York City, USA; and
these project examples. Yet, because there is no space to discuss all of them in one article,
Shanghai Tower in Shanghai, China. The best-case scenario would be to review each of
the author must choose one and elaborate on it. Due to its symbolic significance to the
these project examples. Yet, because there is no space to discuss all of them in one article,
United States, One World Trade Center received more attention throughout its design and
the author must choose one and elaborate on it. Due to its symbolic significance to the
construction
United States, than any other
One World Tradeskyscraper. Thousands
Center received of workers,
more attention citizens,its
throughout experts,
design engi-
and
construction than any other skyscraper. Thousands of workers, citizens, experts,technology.
neers, and architects assisted in bringing this structure to the cutting edge of engineers,
In addition,
and architectsthe building’s
assisted owners and
in bringing this authorities
structure towished to useedge
the cutting it as of
a model for future
technology. In
construction [1,2,19].
addition, the building’s owners and authorities wished to use it as a model for future
construction [1,2,19].
4.1. Building Overview
Standing
4.1. Building at 541 m (1776 ft) tall, One World Trade Center is the highest building in
Overview
the Americas
Standing (Figure
at 541 m3). It was
(1776 ft)built in 2014
tall, One andTrade
World was designed
Center isbytheSOM (Skidmore,
highest buildingOwings
in the
and Merrill).
Americas It has
(Figure 3).104 stories
It was above
built ground
in 2014 and and
was 2designed
below. The tower,(Skidmore,
by SOM which serves as the
Owings
and Merrill). It has 104 stories above ground and 2 below. The tower, which serves asstood
property’s focal point, is located on the 16-acre site where the Twin Towers once the
before thefocal
property’s tragic events
point, of September
is located 11, 2001.
on the 16-acre site It integrates
where the Twincutting-edge
Towers once environmental
stood before
andtragic
the greenevents
features, such as advanced
of September 11, 2001. elevator systems,
It integrates and establishes
cutting-edge new architectural
environmental and green
and safety
features, suchstandards.
as advanced The elevator
upgraded life-safety
systems, and systems
establishesgo new
above and beyond
architectural what
and the
safety
New York The
standards. City upgraded
Building Code requires.
life-safety The tower
systems go above is resistant to explosions,
and beyond what thestorms,
New Yorkand
earthquakes
City Building due
Codetorequires.
using over The50,000
tower tons (35,714tocubic
is resistant yards) storms,
explosions, of steel and
and earthquakes
252,000 tons
(180,000 cubic yards) of concrete for constructing the tower. Special safety precautions
due to using over 50,000 tons (35,714 cubic yards) of steel and 252,000 tons (180,000 cubic
include
yards) of pressurized and extra-wide
concrete for constructing the emergency
tower. Special stairs, fireproofing,
safety precautionsand air-filtration
include sys-
pressurized
tems
and for chemical
extra-wide and biological
emergency particles. According
stairs, fireproofing, to the Emporis
and air-filtration systems database, the build-
for chemical and
ing is among
biological the most
particles. expensive
According toin the
the world; One
Emporis Worldthe
database, Trade Center
building is had
amonga total
thecost
mostof
USD 3.9 billion
expensive in the [20,21].
world; One World Trade Center had a total cost of USD 3.9 billion [20,21].

Figure 3. Standing at 541 m (1776 ft), One World Trade Center in NYC, USA, is the tallest building in
the Western hemisphere. (Photo by author).
Encyclopedia 2023, 3, FOR PEER REVIEW 10

Encyclopedia 2023, 3 539

Figure 3. Standing at 541 m (1776 ft), One World Trade Center in NYC, USA, is the tallest building
in the Western hemisphere. (Photo by author).

4.2.Elevator
4.2. Elevator Systems
Systems
Five of
Five of the
the One
One WTC’s
WTC’s73 73elevators
elevatorsareareexpress,
express,with a top
with speed
a top of more
speed of morethanthan
36.5
kph kph
36.5 [10.16 m/s m/s
[10.16 (33.3 (33.3
ft/s)].ft/s)].
TheseThese
express elevators
express are theare
elevators quickest in the in
the quickest Western Hemi-
the Western
sphere and can
Hemisphere andcarry 1814 kg
can carry 1814(4000 lb). As
kg (4000 a result,
lb). it takes
As a result, it around 40 s to40gos the
takes around 394the
to go m
(1293
394 m ft) leading
(1293 to the observation
ft) leading deck, which
to the observation deck,iswhich
on theis102nd
on thefloor
102nd(Figure
floor 4). Elevator
(Figure 4).
speed was
Elevator increased
speed from 9.1 to
was increased 10.16
from 9.1m/s to accommodate
to 10.16 the expected
m/s to accommodate thelarge number
expected of
large
guests visiting the observation deck at One World Trade Center. The design team antici-
number of guests visiting the observation deck at One World Trade Center. The design
patedanticipated
team 10,000 people working
10,000 peopledaily on the
working office
daily floors
on the and
office overand
floors 5 million
over 5visitors
million per year
visitors
(14,000
per yearper day)per
(14,000 to the
day) observation deck [22].
to the observation deck [22].

Figure4.4.Observation
Figure ObservationDeck
Deckon onthe
the102nd
102ndFloor
Floor
ofof One
One World
World Trade
Trade Center.
Center. Visitors
Visitors taketake
fastfast eleva-
elevators
tors that travel 394 m (1293 ft) from the ground floor to the observation deck in 47 s. (Photo by
that travel 394 m (1293 ft) from the ground floor to the observation deck in 47 s. (Photo by author).
author).
Eight 2.3-ton electric motors were placed on the roof of One WTC to power the fast
Eight Each
elevators. 2.3-ton electricismotors
elevator wereby
controlled placed on the roof
a pulley-like of One
device thatWTC to power
consists theand
of a cab fast
elevators. Eachconnected
counterweights elevator isbycontrolled by a pulley-like
a cable. Tenants device
use an express that to
shuttle consists of sky
get to the a cab and
lobby
counterweights connected by a cable. Tenants use an express shuttle to get to the
on the 64th level, where “local” elevators that travel to higher levels are located. Almost sky lobby
on thecomponent
every 64th level,of
where “local”systems,
the elevator elevatorsincluding
that travel
thetohigh-speed
higher levels are located.
double-deck Almost
elevators,
every component of the elevator systems, including the high-speed double-deck
computerized roller guides, air pressure differential systems, destination dispatching elevators,
computerized
systems, roller guides,
and entertaining air pressure
electronic differential
displays, systems, destination
use cutting-edge technology.dispatching sys-
tems, and entertaining electronic displays, use cutting-edge technology.
4.3. Computerized Roller Guides
4.3. Computerized
It takes moreRoller
than Guides
powerful motors to transport an elevator across long distances
It takes
swiftly. Like more
bulletthan powerful
trains, elevatorsmotors to transport
that operate an elevator
at high across long
speeds require distances
exceptionally
swiftly. tracks
smooth Like bullet trains,
and rail elevators
junctions. Duethat operate atprecision
to alignment high speeds require exceptionally
requirements, the vertical
smooth tracks
placement and railrails
of elevator junctions. Due length
limits their to alignment
to aboutprecision
4.9 m (16requirements,
ft), meaning the
thatvertical
every
placement
elevator of will
path elevator railsa limits
require lot of their lengthThe
rail joints. to about 4.9 m
train-rail (16 ft), meaning
segments that every
in One WTC have
elevator path will require a lot of rail joints. The train-rail segments in One WTC have
been elongated to decrease the number of joints the cars must pass, making the rides more
been elongated
comfortable to decrease [22].
for passengers the number of joints the cars must pass, making the rides more
comfortable for passengers
Since skyscrapers swing [22].
slightly day and night due to temperature changes (con-
traction and expansion), wind forces, and other factors, elevators must account for these
minute variations in the spacing between guide rails [23]. ThyssenKrupp designed the One
WTC’s automatic roller guides to deal with these problems. Innovative roller guides apply
 Since skyscrapers swing slightly day and night due to temperature changes (contrac-
tion and expansion), wind forces, and other factors, elevators must account for these mi-
nute3 variations in the spacing between guide rails [23]. ThyssenKrupp designed the One
Encyclopedia 2023, 540
WTC’s automatic roller guides to deal with these problems. Innovative roller guides apply
pressure in the opposite direction of motion, dampening the impact of irregularities. The
elevator’s wheels pressure
stay in touch
in thewith the rails
opposite due of
direction to motion,
the roller guides moving
dampening up and
the impact down
of irregularities. The
with the car. Theelevator’s
polyurethane
wheelsrollers
stay inat Onewith
touch WTC thecan
railsendure minor
due to the rollerdefects in the rail
guides moving up and down
connections. A device thatcar.
with the exerts
The apolyurethane
force against the rails
rollers also
at One WTCcontrols them, minor
can endure reducing the in the rail
defects
likelihood of tremors and rattling due to alignment issues or other defects. These dynamic
connections. A device that exerts a force against the rails also controls them, reducing the
roller guide systems, also known as real-time shock absorbers, are intelligent. They act dynamic
likelihood of tremors and rattling due to alignment issues or other defects. These
roller guide systems, also known as real-time shock absorbers, are intelligent. They act
like a driver who has seen a large pothole in the road and swerved slightly to avoid it. If
like a driver who has seen a large pothole in the road and swerved slightly to avoid it. If
a pothole is on thea right side
pothole of the
is on road,side
the right the of
driver will the
the road, make a slight
driver left turn
will make to avoid
a slight it, to avoid
left turn
and vice versa. This means that the express elevators are not only fast (25% faster than the
it, and vice versa. This means that the express elevators are not only fast (25% faster than
express elevators the
thatexpress
servedelevators
the original
that World Trade
served the Center
original Twin
World Towers)
Trade Centerbut alsoTowers)
Twin com- but also
fortable for passengers, as there
comfortable is no shaking
for passengers, or rattling
as there [22] (Figure
is no shaking 5). [22] (Figure 5).
or rattling

Figure 5. Computerized roller guides system. (Source: author).

Figure 5. Computerized roller guides system. (Source: author).
4.4. Air Pressure Differential
4.4. Air Pressure Differential
The air pressure differential must be considered when designing and constructing
The air pressure differential
high-speed elevatormust be considered
systems when
that travel long designing
distances, suchand constructing
as those found in very tall
high-speed elevator systems that travel long distances, such as those found in veryproblems
buildings. The rapid travel of an elevator across floors causes air resistance tall in the
buildings. The rapid travel
elevator of an
shaft. elevator the
To illustrate across floors
point, causes
a train air resistance
approaching a stationproblems
creates an in air-pressure
effect by pushing a wall of air in front of it. Similarly, relative air displacement occurs when
the elevator shaft. To illustrate the point, a train approaching a station creates an air-pres-
an average vehicle weighing 4500 kg (9921 lb) and a counterweight weighing 7300 km
sure effect by pushing a wall of air in front of it. Similarly, relative air displacement occurs
(16,094 lb) rapidly ascend or descend in an elevator shaft. Due to a high-pressure zone
when an average above
vehicle theweighing
cab and a4500 kg (9921 zone
low-pressure lb) and a counterweight
below it, the hoistwayweighing
doors above 7300the vehicle
km (16,094 lb) rapidly ascendinto
are pushed or descend
the hallway,in an elevator
while shaft. Due
the hoistway doorsto below
a high-pressure
the car are zonedrawn into the
above the cab andhoistway.
a low-pressure
A solutionzonewasbelow it, by
devised theThyssenKrupp,
hoistway doors above
which the vehicle
consisted are wedge-
of attaching
pushed into the hallway, while the hoistway doors below the car are drawn into the hoist-
shaped aluminum shrouds to the top and bottom of the cabs to maximize the aerodynamic
way. A solution efficiency
was devised of theby ThyssenKrupp,
cabs as they ascend and which consisted
descend of attaching
the shafts. Because of wedge-
its aerodynamic
shaped aluminum shrouds to the top and bottom of the cabs to maximize the aerodynamic and less
design, the cab has less wind noise, less door rattling, less air displacement,
resistance to the passage of air [22,23].
efficiency of the cabs as they ascend and descend the shafts. Because of its aerodynamic
The second air-pressure issue is related to the comfort and safety of passengers, notably
design, the cab has less wind noise, less door rattling, less air displacement, and less re-
the “ear-popping” effect that happens when the elevator moves more quickly. Although it
sistance to the passage
happens of air [22,23].
because of the abrupt and quick shift in air pressure when the elevator ascends
The second air-pressure
and descends,issue is related
this problem to the
is more comfortduring
noticeable and safety of passengers,
the descent. It is vital tono-
keep in mind
tably the “ear-popping” effect that happens when the elevator moves more quickly.
that lifts in very tall structures decline more quickly than commercial aircraft. An airplane’s
Encyclopedia 2023, 3 541

landing operation can last up to 30 min, giving plenty of time to regulate the cabin’s air
pressure. As opposed to this, elevators must adjust the air pressure in as little as 30 s. As a
result, it takes less time for elevator passengers to adjust. To avoid passengers’ ears from
popping, ThyssenKrupp invented pressurized vehicles at One World Trade Center (i.e.,
adding extra air pressure to make up for pressure drops). Engineers at ThyssenKrupp
have conducted a thorough analysis to determine the ideal speed for fans that control
vehicle air pressure as elevators rapidly descend or ascend. Overall, elevators can only
fall at a maximum speed of 10 m per second (33 ft/s) in all cases due to the air pressure
problem [22,23].

4.5. Structural Safety

One hundred ninety-eight of the largest and fastest elevators in the world could be
found at the Twin Towers of the former World Trade Center. However, on 9/11, at least
200 people died in the elevators of these towers, making it the most significant elevator
catastrophe in history. The steel exoskeleton framework of the towers, whose weakness was
exposed in this attack, was blamed for this issue. In contrast, a 3.3 foot (1 m) thick concrete
casing surrounds the elevator hoistways of the One WTC. In case of an emergency, such as
a fire, residents are also safeguarded in a refuge room on each floor. Additional steps were
taken to increase passenger safety. The emergency elevator typically stops directly below
the damaged floor during a fire, leaving the firefighters no choice but to climb the stairs
to the fire’s source. Firefighters can access the fire levels directly because the emergency
elevator shaft at One WTC is kept at negative pressure to prevent smoke from entering. A
second door that may be opened in the emergency elevator’s cab allows the firefighters to
enter a different passageway [24].

4.6. Destination Dispatching System and Security

The building employs a Destination Dispatching System (DDS) to offer a faster and
more efficient service. The utilized DDSs in 63 of the building’s elevators are connected
via an Intranet, and passengers headed for the same destination are grouped and share an
elevator. Passes to enter the building that reveal the holder’s identity and the department
they work in are made mandatory to increase safety. The elevator receives that information
when visitors swipe their badges at the turnstile. The elevator’s number flashes up on
the digital screen in real time. There is a touch screen outside the elevators that guests
and employees with multiple-floor access can use to override the system and change their
destination [25].

4.7. Elevator Maintenance

One WTC’s elevator maintenance program uses Microsoft’s Azure Intelligent Systems
Service. By continuously feeding service engineers real-time data, this technology responds
to issues before they become serious, enabling them to take action to prevent elevators
from breaking down. These data are added to dynamic predictive models, which assist
engineers in taking preventative measures. The system immediately offers the most likely
causes when an elevator reports a problem. Such a process shortens the potential downtime
for the elevators by enabling technicians to identify and start repairs more promptly [24].

4.8. Entertainment
The interior walls of the five high-speed elevators that travel to the observatory
feature large high-definition monitors designed to resemble windows. During the 47 s ride,
the monitors display a historical panorama of the city—a CGI timelapse of New York’s
development over the past 500 years, starting in 1500. In the 1600s, colonial homes sprout
on the island’s meadows. As colonial New York takes shape in the 1700s, the shoreline
shifts further south. Travelers could see the tidal strait known as the East River by 1839.
The old World Trade Center’s south tower, built in 1971, briefly appears to rise above
Manhattan. As the new tower’s steel beams and structural supports eventually spindle
Encyclopedia 2023, 3 542

outward into being, the building seems to come together around the elevator just in time
for arrival on the 102nd floor [22,26].

5. Elevator Modernization and Upgrading Systems

A modernization project may be required for elevator systems that have been in use
for ten years or more. The components of an elevator system will be assessed first for
their level of safety and compliance with the most recent building code standards. Every
single element necessary for the elevator’s effective and risk-free operation will be exam-
ined throughout the evaluations. Assessments also include an analysis of the necessary
engineering support systems and accessibility provisions. Modernization projects should
be considered when the lifespan of an existing elevator system must be extended. There
are many ways to modernize and upgrade existing elevators. For example, upgrading to
LED bulbs can save up to 45% of the energy incandescent bulbs use. Building owners can
use digital solutions that collect elevator data to provide information that helps to track a
system’s energy use. It is also recommended to replace conventional motors with regen-
erative drives. As was explained earlier, the regenerative drive captures unused energy
generated during braking and feeds it back into the building power system. Furthermore,
it is recommended to switch to a gearless drive. Due to their smaller size and lack of gears,
these machines require much less energy than their geared counterparts. The following
explains a few modernization options [27,28].

5.1. Full Replacement

This solution is appropriate for older elevators with issues including (1) being out-
of-date and requiring a lot of energy to operate; (2) being inaccurately level with landing
floors, creating risky tripping hazards; or (3) being unreliable with frequent breakdowns.
Whole elevator replacement is a service offered by elevator companies in which the old
elevator is entirely removed, and a new, accessible traction elevator is installed inside the
building’s existing shaft [29].

5.2. Traction Modernization

If the elevator: (1) uses a lot of electricity; (2) does not level precisely with landing
floors; or (3) has an old-fashioned interior, modular upgrading is the best option. Replacing
systems, such as hoisting equipment, signalization, or doors, can improve the performance
and aesthetics of the elevator and possibly reduce running costs [29].

5.3. Hydraulic Modernization

This option is ideal if the building’s hydraulic elevator: (1) is frequently out of service
due to mechanical wear and tear and worn-out or obsolete electrical components; (2) op-
erates inconsistently and unreliably, resulting in increased maintenance costs; or (3) has
reached the end of its useful life. The hydraulic elevator renovation solution provides the
building with a modern elevator that offers a quiet, smooth ride and complies with the
most recent accessibility and safety requirements [29].

5.4. Smartphones and Wearable Devices

Some elevator companies have developed smartphone applications that enable users
to call elevators. These applications eliminate the need to press any elevator buttons,
allowing anyone, with or without a disability, to access elevators quickly, safely, and
comfortably. ThyssenKrupp has developed the AGILE app that enables tenants to operate
elevators via their smartphone or wearable device. The app, compatible with Android and
iOS devices, mitigates elevator traffic congestion and physical interaction with elevator
surfaces, buttons, and handrails. Similarly, Nayar Systems has developed the Pulse elevator
smartphone app [30].
Encyclopedia 2023, 3 543

5.5. Holographic Elevator Buttons

Another innovation on the horizon is a system of holographic buttons, which avoids
the need to touch the elevator buttons. Inspired by sci-fi, the new technology offers a
floating panel with options for users to select by pressing or pointing to buttons on a
holographic image without touching any buttons. Alternatively, passengers can use simple
voice commands. These revolutionary designs provide convenience as well as security and
safety in the face of the global COVID-19 pandemic [31].

5.6. Ultraviolet Rays That Disinfect Elevators

On the market today is a new type of intelligent elevator that uses UV radiation to
keep the cabin clean. As a precaution against COVID-19, the mechanism will eliminate
any remaining traces of viruses and bacteria as soon as the elevator stops, and no one is
present [32].

5.7. Integrated Elevator Access Control Security

Offering users touchless operating panels and access through destination dispatch
systems are excellent approaches to boost convenience and security in office buildings.
For example, using IoT-connected equipment with Openpath’s elevator access control and
braXos’s destination control system, building users can experience touchless elevator access
and improved security. An integrated elevator security system can lock down the elevators
immediately in case of a fire alarm and instantly alert security officers and first responders.
This security system is made by Motorola Solutions, headquartered in Chicago, IL, USA.
Further, a visitor experience is made more straightforward and practical. A registered
visitor, contractor, or vendor would immediately receive a digital guest pass for the floors
and period they requested to stay after checking in. Overall, supervising guest visitors on
the premises using these systems increases security [33–35].

6. Key Future Developments

6.1. Circulating Multi-Car Elevator System
With conventional elevators, a single vehicle ascends and descends the same elevator
shaft. In a circulating multi-car elevator system, however, numerous cars (each equipped
with a revolving magnetic array propulsion wheel) travel in a circular motion within
the span of two traditional elevator shafts (Figure 6). This system is like a Ferris wheel,
except each car has its motor instead of counterweights. Steel ropes drive its prototype
for revolving multi-car elevators. This method attaches two cars to two circulating steel
ropes to form a unit. The support rail system fitted throughout the elevator shaft guides the
movement of the cars and prevents lateral swaying. Hitachi verified this elevator system
using a replica one-tenth of the actual size. The spinning multi-car elevator is anticipated
to increase capacity, reduce the number of shafts necessary, and shorten waiting times.
Sadly, the existing prototypes require additional safety enhancements to fulfill international
standards [36–38].

6.2. Multi-Directional Elevators

Conventional elevators move a cabin strictly up and down using cables. In contrast,
the MULTI manages elevators more like a subway system. The cabins shift horizontally,
vertically, frontally, and rearwards. Each system comprises multiple cabins, each powered
by a linear induction motor. Inspired by the TWIN system, in 2017, ThyssenKrupp produced
the first multi-car ropeless elevator system. Instead of ropes, a motor system pushes each
car around a looping shaft. This system is no longer height-restricted due to the lack of
ropes necessary to move the cars (Figure 7). As a result, the MULTI provides a method to
boost elevator height above the KONE’s 650 m (2133 ft) steel rope limitation. Because the
MULTI utilizes many vehicles, it guarantees a shorter wait time. Finally, it promises to cut
energy consumption by incorporating a “smart” device that reduces peak power demand
by up to 60 percent, decreasing the entire structure’s carbon footprint [39–41].
Encyclopedia 2023,
Encyclopedia 3, FOR
2023, 3 PEER REVIEW 15544

Figure
Encyclopedia 2023, 3, FOR PEER REVIEW 6. Conventional
Figure Elevator
6. Conventional System
Elevator versus
System Circulating
versus Multi-Car
Circulating Elevator
Multi-Car System.
Elevator (Source:
System. au- 16
(Source:
thor).
author).

6.2. Multi-Directional Elevators

Conventional elevators move a cabin strictly up and down using cables. In contrast,
the MULTI manages elevators more like a subway system. The cabins shift horizontally,
vertically, frontally, and rearwards. Each system comprises multiple cabins, each powered
by a linear induction motor. Inspired by the TWIN system, in 2017, ThyssenKrupp pro-
duced the first multi-car ropeless elevator system. Instead of ropes, a motor system pushes
each car around a looping shaft. This system is no longer height-restricted due to the lack
of ropes necessary to move the cars (Figure 7). As a result, the MULTI provides a method
to boost elevator height above the KONE’s 650 m (2133 ft) steel rope limitation. Because
the MULTI utilizes many vehicles, it guarantees a shorter wait time. Finally, it promises
to cut energy consumption by incorporating a “smart” device that reduces peak power
demand by up to 60 percent, decreasing the entire structure’s carbon footprint [39–41].

Figure7.7.Multi-Directional
Figure Multi-DirectionalElevators.
Elevators.(Source:
(Source:author).
author).

6.3. Virtual Reality Diagnostics

The use of virtual reality headsets could revolutionize the way that elevator techni-
cians execute their jobs. VR headsets allow them to diagnose elevators’ issues without
risking their lives by having to climb multiple stories or hang from a lift shaft. By putting
on the glasses and utilizing hand gestures, technicians can examine the entire engine and
its components in greater detail. The maintenance crew can also expand the view to car-
Encyclopedia 2023, 3 545

6.3. Virtual Reality Diagnostics

The use of virtual reality headsets could revolutionize the way that elevator technicians
execute their jobs. VR headsets allow them to diagnose elevators’ issues without risking
their lives by having to climb multiple stories or hang from a lift shaft. By putting on
the glasses and utilizing hand gestures, technicians can examine the entire engine and its
components in greater detail. The maintenance crew can also expand the view to carrying
out a “virtual walk-through” to determine what parts need to be fixed or replaced.

7. Summary
This article reviews milestone elevator system developments. Overall, with continuous
technological advancements, elevators will be able to meet the requirements of buildings
with extreme heights. Digital innovations will support urbanization well into the foresee-
able future, making it easier for passengers to travel across buildings conveniently and
safely. Sustained collaboration between engineers, architects, computer scientists, elevator
manufacturers, and builders may lead to cost-effective solutions that improve performance
and promote efficiency [42,43]. The following offers essential highlights.

7.1. Escalating towards a Greener Future

The vertical mobility endeavor has the motivation to embrace environmental con-
sciousness, reduce the negative impact on the environment, and save energy. For example,
the regenerative drive is a technology that helps minimize energy usage by collecting en-
ergy that would have been lost otherwise and sending it back to the building power system.
Further, buildings are implementing LED lighting solutions and using standby modes in
elevators to reduce energy consumption. The use of programmable dispatch software helps
reduce the necessary number of stops, which in turn saves energy. In addition, energy
consumption is significantly reduced compared to older elevator control systems due to
the use of microprocessor-based controls in modern elevator systems. Finally, the market
currently provides elevators that have machines that are not only more compact but also
more robust. This helps conserve space and energy [44–46]. The main features of green
elevators include:
• Machine-Room-Less (MRL) system;
• Gearless traction motor;
• Drive systems that regenerate energy;
• Computerized precision traffic control that optimizes the performance of a group of
elevators and decreases light-load trips;
• In-cab sensors and software that make the elevator go into sleep mode when not in
use, turning off the music, video, lighting, and ventilation;
• Destination dispatch control software to improve passenger traffic flow (see
next section).

7.2. Efficient Movement of People and Algorithms

The destination dispatch technology is being adopted to move people efficiently
throughout the building. This is accomplished by grouping passengers traveling to the
same destination floor. Just entering their destination into a control panel is what passengers
need to do. In addition, after the epidemic, this technology was hailed as the solution to
the congestion problem in elevator cars and elevator lobbies to meet the demand for social
separation [47,48]. Almost every leading elevator company is working on cutting-edge
controller systems. Elevators will likely not have any up and down buttons, but riders
will have to enter their floor numbers before walking into elevators using their hand-held
and wearable devices. The elevator system can reduce wait and transit times by using
the collected data to make smarter decisions about which elevators should pick up which
passengers and on what floors.
Encyclopedia 2023, 3 546

7.3. Technologies That Aid in Hygiene

The recent pandemic has altered our travel and building navigation. One of the most
remarkable inventive technologies consists of buttons that do not need to be touched to
operate, reducing the spread of infections and disease. Users with contactless elevator
buttons can summon a lift simply by holding their finger one to three centimeters away
from the panel on which the buttons are located. This feat is possible due to the employment
of an infrared sensor interface. Touchless solutions such as Otis eCallTM (produced by
Otis, a global elevator company headquartered in Farmington, CT, USA) and Schindler’s
ElevateMe (produced by Schindler, a global elevator company headquartered in Ebikon,
Switzerland) help reduce public elevator button use. Similarly, passengers can send an
elevator call from their smartphones using an app, reducing the need to touch elevator
buttons. Elevator air purifiers and escalator handrail sanitizers can improve building
hygiene [47,49].

7.4. Remote On-Time Services

Elevators require regular maintenance. Thus, the elevator industry uses remote
monitoring systems to aid building authorities in diagnosing and evaluating an elevator’s
performance. This is to ensure the continued functionality of elevators. Internet of Things
technology assists in delivering real-time data, providing insights to avoid unscheduled
shutdowns, and facilitating problem prevention. To improve customer service, leading
elevator manufacturers such as Otis are equipping their field staff with cell phones to
monitor, predict, and remedy any elevator problems remotely [43,50].

7.5. The MULTI System

Some manufacturers are pushing the edge by designing elevators that can travel
vertically, diagonally, and horizontally across a building, although most elevators can only
move in one direction, often vertically. Even though this concept is currently in the testing
phase, it can potentially revolutionize how elevators are integrated into buildings. Because
there are no ropes, the motors move the car’s weight, reducing used energy. Elevators
moving in vertical and horizontal directions without height constraints and passing one
another in adjacent shafts will allow for much greater architectural freedom [49,51].

7.6. Speed
Elevator speed has improved remarkably in the recent past. However, research
indicates that elevator technology may be getting dangerously close to the speed limits
that human riders can tolerate. Despite efforts to make for a comfortable ride, such as air
conditioning, pressurized cabs, and decreased travel vibration, faster speeds may make
humans sick. So, other development areas will soon become more important than pure
speed to engineers and elevator firms. These efforts include purified air circulation systems,
pressurized cabs, efficient evacuation, decreased vibration, and, most importantly, reduced
manufacturing costs and maintenance [52].

Funding: This research received no external funding.

Institutional Review Board Statement: Not applicable.
Data Availability Statement: Not applicable.
Acknowledgments: The author deeply thanks the editors and reviewers for insightful comments.
Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest.

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