German conglomerate thyssenkrupp has developed the world’s first rope-free elevator system that uses linear motor technology to move elevator cabins both vertically and horizontally.
Called MULTI, the innovative elevator system uses multiple cabins in a single shaft. Skyscrapers that currently use the conventional elevator system have just one cabin per shaft and are limited in terms of passenger capacity and operational capability. By using multiple cabins in a shaft, thyssenkrupp claims it can increase passenger throughput by roughly 50 percent and also ensure that passengers will only have to wait 15 to 30 seconds for an elevator ride.
Using linear motor technology, MULTI is able to operate elevator cabins without the use of wire rope and to move the cabins horizontally, thyssenkrupp has developed what they call the Exchanger.
MULTI’s elevator cabins are equipped with an onboard battery in case of a power blackout and in an emergency situation, the elevator cabins are programmed to reach the nearest floor so that the passengers can evacuate.
To test the MULTI elevator system, thyssenkrupp has constructed a 246-metre tower in Rottweil, Germany. Equipped with 12 test shafts capable of moving elevator cabins at a top speed of 64 km/h (39 mph) thyssenkrupp intends to use the research facility to extensively test and certify MULTI. As an added bonus, the tower is also Germany’s highest public viewing platform.
“We believe MULTI is a genuine game-changer that will truly transform the way people move, work and live in our built environment, reducing passenger waiting times and requiring significantly less space within a building. MULTI truly represents a landmark revolution in the elevator industry,” said Andreas Schierenbeck, CEO of thyssenkrupp Elevator
The world’s first MULTI elevator system is currently set to be installed at OVG Real Estate’s new East Side Tower in Berlin, Germany.
To learn more about MULTI, click the link below.
