The next generation of lifts: Gen2tm comfort lifts

In 2000, Otis became the first lift company to introduce flat-belt technology, called Gen2TM. There have now been more than 40,000 Gen2 systems sold around the globe, including landmark schemes such as visitor access to the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro, and the Shanghai International Trade Centre.

Otis is part of UTC, a company with many divisions in a variety of industries including aerospace, software and electronics development. Otis leveraged UTC’s different company technologies to help design, develop, manufacture, and test the Gen2 system, which uses lightweight, flexible, polyurethane-covered steel belts to replace conventional steel ropes that have been the industry standard for more than a century. These weigh up to 20% less than conventional ropes and are more flexible, an innovation that eliminates the need for a separate, costly machine room because the mechanism can fit at the top of the shaft.

This liberates architects to design buildings without the need for a machine room. Builders benefit from a rapid, controlled installation process that minimises external trade interference, and owners enjoy an economical system with more leaseable space.

The system responds to society’s need for sustainability. The synchronous permanent-magnet machine, with a radial air gap, is as much as 50% more energy-efficient than larger conventional machines equipped with induction motors. In addition, the Gen2 hoist stays clean because the belts and the gearless machine, with permanently sealed bearings, require no oil.

It also sets new standards for passenger comfort. The compact, gearless machine makes for a smooth, quiet ride. Relays have virtually been eliminated, and even the controller is quiet.

The first Gen2 product was designed to serve mainly the mid-rise office market, but in June this year Otis released the Gen2 Comfort system for the residential and lower-rise commercial markets.

Advanced installation

With all major components located inside the hoistway, the streamlined installation process has minimal impact on other trades. The machine is integrated on top of the rails, thus virtually eliminating the interface

with the building. The car serves as a construction platform for rapid installation and alignment of rails. The controller and drive are integrated into a single cabinet, which is factory pre-tested. The Gen2 system arrives at the job in pre-assembled subsystems packed in shock absorbing materials. The controller components are packed in sturdy, structural foam for extra protection.

Advanced monitoring

Otis has also incorporated surprising innovations in monitoring. The Remote Elevator Monitoring system (REMTM) is the most advanced of its kind for ensuring lift reliability. The REM system continuously monitors lift functions 24 hours a day, detecting deteriorating components, intermittent anomalies and small nuisances that might otherwise go unnoticed. The REM units send diagnostic information directly to Otis service centres, where the data is analysed by specialists who can alert field technicians.

Advanced safety

The Gen2 system surpasses the European lift directive. Furthermore, Otis has added innovative safety benefits developed using risk analyses on practically every possible scenario. The entire system – including machine, coated steel belts, brakes, controller and drive – has been tested worldwide. The components have weathered conditions of extreme temperatures and have withstood tests of thermal shock, voltage variations, power shortages and interruptions, and transient power surges – virtually every possible breakdown of a building’s electrical system.

Access detection systems automatically put the car on “inspection” if a worker opens a hoistway door, protecting workers against injury from a moving car. Heat sensors send the car to the nearest landing if there is extreme heat in the hoistway. In case of a building power failure a worker can move the car to the next landing. Evacuation deterrents inhibit passengers from opening the car doors if the car is outside the door zone.

n Otis Elevator Company, a wholly owned subsidiary of United Technologies Corporation, is the world’s largest manufacturer and maintainer of people-moving products, including elevators, escalators and moving walkways. With headquarters in Farmington, Connecticut, USA, Otis employs 60,000 people, offers products and services in more than 200 countries and territories and maintains more than 1.45 million elevators and escalators worldwide.