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Elevators and Your Privacy

Are you being watched when you ride?

Are you ever concerned about your privacy in an elevator? Do you think about the fact that there may be surveillance cameras recording your every move? Do you know your rights and do you even have any when you’re in such a public place? Here is your primer on elevators and your privacy:

Where you are likely to be recorded

Many elevators in public places such as office buildings, hotels, stadiums, and theaters are going to have video cameras in the elevators. It is perfectly legal and acceptable to record people coming and going, both for the safety of other visitors and the property. In some cases, it is essential.

Video surveillance in elevators

We’ve all seen leaked video footage of people in elevators. Often the images are of celebrities or athletes caught in the act, so to speak. Other times the footage is attached to a legal case and the video is being used as evidence. No doubt you’ve gotten into an elevator and spotted a camera pointed right at you. You might have wondered about the legality of security cameras in public places. While cameras are allowed – within reason – there are rules governing when and how such devices can be used.

According to FindLaw.com, “Private business owners are generally allowed to install surveillance cameras, even hidden ones, in areas where they promote a legitimate business purpose. Cameras at entrances and check-out counters to spot possible theft are OK.”

That doesn’t mean building owners have free reign when it comes to recording the actions of people who walk through their doors. Privacy rights set strict guidelines that owners must follow. For instance, cameras can only be used to record video, not audio. Cameras are also not allowed in certain places, such as bathrooms or dressing rooms.

According to FindLaw.com, “In order to avoid violating privacy laws, cameras in elevators must serve a legitimate business purpose and avoid intruding into a person’s reasonable expectation of privacy. For this reason, elevator security cameras are installed at a high vantage point and only record video. Recording audio without permission would be in violation of federal wiretapping laws.”

What about eavesdropping in an elevator?

We’ve all been on elevators with other people – maybe co-workers or even complete strangers – who don’t seem to mind airing their private business during the ride. It’s likely you’ve had these conversations, either with a friend or even someone on the phone. Does your right to privacy in elevators extend to eavesdropping?

Well…not really.

“In the most traditional sense, you have no privacy rights to prevent someone from overhearing you or eavesdropping on your conversation in an elevator – as long as that person is in the elevator with you,” according to FindLaw.com.

While you can’t do anything about eavesdropping, the same laws apply when it comes to recording something you overhear in an elevator. It is still illegal for anyone to secretly record the conversation on his or her phone, for example. Selling the footage or audio is also illegal, although it always seems to happen when it comes to celebrities or athletes. In fact, if someone sells security footage taken in an elevator, they could be fined and prosecuted, which carries a sentence of up to 5 years, if convicted.

Elevators are out to the public so there is never any guarantee of your privacy. It’s a good idea to always remember that cameras could be on you at all times, so take appropriate caution.

From corporate to condos, Connections Elevator specializes in forward-thinking that helps our customers install uniquely suited solutions. For first-class maintenance, modernization, repairs and contract management, you can reach us at (954) 792-1234 or info@connectionselevator.com, or take advantage of a complimentary consultation via our contact form.

March 21, 2018 Todd Schwartz News Comments Off

2017 Improvements in Elevator Safety

A look at new codes for commercial and residential elevators

Elevators offer one of the safest forms of transportation in the world. The reasons for that safety record relate to strict regulations and an ongoing effort to make improvements. According to National Elevator Institute, “The safety code for elevators…is updated every three years to ensure that the requirements represent the latest safety and technology available.”

How new standards are developed

Any new updates are made by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), which puts together a Standards Committee made up of a range of industry professionals, including enforcing authorities, inspectors, mechanical and electrical engineers, designers, labor authorities, building/facility owners, and installation and maintenance experts.

Highlights of the 2017 changes for commercial elevators

2017 saw several key updates and amendments. “Some of these modifications were clarifications to existing actions, others include additional requirements for the location of hoistway access switches, securing controllers located in public areas, and type of emergency stop buttons,” according to the National Elevator Institute report. These changes include:

• Updates to seismic requirements, including the addition of a seismic detection device and a scan feature that can help determine if an elevator is safe after a seismic event

• Updated maintenance, repair and replacement requirements regarding replacement of elevator doors, speed governors, and testing of elastomeric buffers

• Updates to the alterations sections, with new requirements for surface mount sump pumps, standard railings, and suspension means monitoring for elevators

2017 updates for residential elevators

The ASME updates codes for residential elevators as well. The concern with residential elevators is the safety of all those living in or visiting a home. Last year saw some key updates. The changes were based on an analysis that looked at safety issues concerning children becoming trapped between the hoistway and the elevator doors.

“The analysis showed a risk of child entrapment due to the distance between the hoistway door and elevator car door being too large. The proposed revisions address the gap as well as several other key modifications required to make any residential elevator safer for occupants and household inhabitants,” according to The Business Journals.

ASME A17.1-2016/CSA B44-16 code changes, “requires that the measured distance from the face of the hoistway door to the face of the door must be no more than 4”…the hoistway door must be no more than ¾” from the hoistway sill,” according to Elevator Compliance.

The complete updates can be found here.

Other regulations had to do with fire protection measures. Regulations for residential elevators state, “Fire-protection rating of hoistway doors cannot be less than required by the building code, and must be capable of withstanding a force of 670 N (150 pound-force) that is applied horizontally over an area 4” x 4” in the center of the doors, without permanent displacement or deformation.”

The changes apply to homeowners, dealers, builders, contractors, and architects, although each will be affected in different ways.

From corporate to condos, Connections Elevator specializes in forward-thinking solutions. For first-class maintenance, modernization, repairs, and contract management, you can reach us at (954) 792-1234, email at info@connectionselevator.com, or via our contact form.

March 7, 2018 Todd Schwartz News Comments Off

A Course in Elevator Psychology 101

The mindset behind door diving, phone failing, and crazy calling

When you stop and think about it, it’s an elevator’s job to drive you up the wall (or down, as the case may be). This is fine when the cab does it, but not quite so satisfying if your fellow passengers are doing the same.

While we’re thinking, we could look at the elevator as a microcosm of society itself. We’re all in it together for a short time trying to get where we’re going, so everyone should cooperate. If that’s too philosophical, there’s no arguing that elevator travel has its psychological aspects.

You just have to be aware of the unspoken politics. From shoulder shuffling to all-out germ warfare, here’s our light-hearted look at the psychology of using an elevator, and how to leave any bad habits in the lobby.

The shoulder shuffle

Our first psychological success tip is probably the most difficult. It requires everyone in the elevator to think the same way, and move like the well-oiled machine they’re standing in. It’s the art of the shoulder shuffle. It involves positioning yourself perfectly upon entrance to prepare for your exit.

Already sounding complicated? Picture the typical elevator scenario. It arrives, you get in and you wait. If it’s not too crowded (elevators typically carry around 5 people a trip), great. If it’s crowded, new entrants positioning themselves at the front only makes it harder for those already in to get out.

In an ideal world, every passenger will announce where they’re going and move to the front, middle or back depending on how soon their floor will arrive. Most people don’t and so passengers have to shuffle, shove and reorganize themselves as people push their way out.

Maybe you’re only going a couple of floors up or down, in which case cramming yourself into an elevator isn’t the most comfortable option. Take the stairs (if health and other factors allow); you’ll sidestep the need to shoulder shuffle entirely.

You should also avoid Toe Trampling: the bad habit of not minding your step on the way in and out.

Crazy calling and shut spamming

For some reason, many elevator passengers think that hitting buttons multiple times (and in rapid succession) is going to make something happen faster. When you hit that call button for the elevator, it’s going to get there in its own time. Likewise, when you’re inside, hitting the Close Doors button over and over isn’t going to make them shut any faster.

Not only is this impatience a stress on your nerves, it also stresses the mechanisms of the elevator itself. The cab is a sturdy piece of machinery yet also one with many delicate parts. When we think that elevators in America make an estimated 18 billion trips per year, that’s a lot of pressure those little buttons are under.

Don’t crazy call your elevator. Gently push the call button once, maybe twice for peace of mind. When you’re aboard, do the same while closing the doors.

…and watch out for door divers.

Door diving

What is it about a set of closing elevator doors that makes people leap for them? Modern life has us all in such a hurry that door diving has become a reflex. It results in last-minute forced entries into elevators; adding those extra, aggravating seconds to the journey for other passengers (who are also in a hurry).

Door diving can be limited if everyone remembers etiquette again. Holding a door open isn’t just polite. Previous studies highlight it as a means of showing social cooperation and respect for a group. Of course, there’s the chance you may be too polite.

This is when someone is holding the elevator door open, delaying everyone’s journey as another refuses to get on. Both parties may mean well, but neither are going to be popular with the rest of the group.

Phone failing

We acknowledged earlier how important manners are in making society work. The sheer number of cell phones in existence these days (an estimated 4. 93 billion) means most of us have one. In the confines of an elevator, phone etiquette takes on an extra dimension of importance.

A totally silent elevator can feel a little awkward. Someone having a loud conversation on any topic is just as bad and equals phone fail. It’s a sure-fire way to make other passengers uncomfortable, and yourself immediately unpopular.

Letting a call drop (or replying by text) increases the chances of better teamwork when it’s time for the shoulder shuffle to the exit.

Everybody likes their personal space, and we all like our travel to be stress-free and pleasant. A quick trip in an elevator may not seem like much, but being aware of psychology and etiquette involved can make a big difference. You can contribute to a pleasant journey for others, and to the better operation of the elevator’s mechanisms.

From corporate to condos, Connections Elevator specializes in forward-thinking solutions. For first-class maintenance, modernization, repairs, and contract management, you can reach us at (954) 792-1234, email at info@connectionselevator.com, or via our contact form.

February 28, 2018 Todd Schwartz News Comments Off

Deterring Elevator Damage and Defacement

A look at steps to beat elevator vandals

Defacement and damage to an elevator can cause a number of headaches for building managers. And since elevators having so many parts, they could be looked upon as a troublemaker’s dream.

Buttons to tamper with. Mirrored (and indeed any) surfaces to graffiti. Overhead lights to crack. These and other acts of vandalism can leave a nasty mark on not only the elevator itself, but the reputation of a building and the satisfaction of its residents.

Florida law and vandalism

The state of Florida and local jurisdictions are eager to tackle the defacement issue, as this example of local ordinance code demonstrates. Anyone caught leaving an illegal mark on public or private property will be expected to remove it personally. Refusal to do so means the offender will pay for the process to occur by other means.

Our state means business when it comes to defacing or tampering with operational appliances. Florida Statutes Chapter 806 cites these incidents as anywhere from misdemeanors of the first and second degree on up to a felony of the third degree if the damage results in operational impairment. Unfortunately, even the most blatant offenders are rarely caught.

Take swift action in every instance

Responding quickly to vandalism and damage can be a double-edged sword. On the plus side, it cleans up the mess and sends a signal to the perpetrators that it won’t be tolerated. On the down side, there’s nothing more attractive to the destructive mindset than a clean new canvas.

Nevertheless, taking immediate action is always the proper response. Damage and defacement, like any crime, will only worsen if word gets out that it’s being tolerated. The problem gets more serious when it becomes aggressive vandalism: a far more permanent, far more difficult-to-handle method of defacement.

Why are elevators so enticing for criminals?

The ideal situation for any criminal is to operate in is secrecy or, at the very least, privacy. The enclosed environment of an elevator offers an arena for graffiti artists and vandals that could hardly be more perfect. Some elevators do incorporate cameras to record inside activity, but it’s not a universal practice. Out of sight, offenders are free to wreak havoc.

Things become serious when the damage starts to affect property value, sends a message of urban decline, and makes people fear for their safety. And if the actual mechanisms of an elevator are compromised, that’s a very serious matter.

The other forms defacement can take

Litter can be a real problem inside elevators, as well as outside of them. Reckless behavior such as mashing door buttons or jumping on the elevator floor can also lead to mechanical issues.

Causing problems with an elevator’s operation/appearance needn’t necessarily be a malicious act. Construction work (if carelessly executed) can leave behind debris or damage to an elevator interior. In addition, new tenants who move in may leave knocks, scrapes and scratches on the interior.

How to mitigate damage

Psychologically, a darker interior on your elevator surfaces will go some way in deterring, at the least, graffiti offenders. If you have the means to install a camera, do so. This is a very effective step in deterring vandalism. If you don’t have a service elevator, hang up padding to cover surfaces when workmen or movers are transporting large furniture or equipment.

Keep elevators as clean as you can. Be vigilant for litter items and maintain trash receptacles outside of elevator doors. Keeping things spic and span sends a positive message that you care about the property and the people in it.

A “No Vandalism” sign coupled with a copy of the relevant statutory punishment could also deter offenders. And a “Please operate with care” notice along with a few instructions for riders may help in diminishing careless use.

Finally, there are materials you can choose to use in an elevator upgrade that will both hide and deter vandalism, such as mesh covering on the walls, darker colors, grates that protect lights, and easily-replaceable and graffiti-resistant surfaces. Consult with an elevator upgrade specialist to find the right mix of materials that will keep your elevators looking their best.

February 14, 2018 Todd Schwartz News Comments Off

The Benefits of Seasoned Elevator Maintenance and Repair Technicians

How a team who knows their business ensures elevators are safe and reliable

There are many parts to an elevator, all of which must be fully understood by a qualified technician. A truly seasoned worker brings experience and attention to detail to a building’s maintenance and repair needs. The exceptional service they provide can proactively address potential issues – keeping elevators running smoothly, free from costly repairs, and safe.

The kind of trouble you’ll avoid by using an experienced team

The Florida Building Code details the depth of knowledge necessary for servicing an elevator. These detailed code requirements can be intimidating for anybody running an elevator to understand, let alone comply with. And unfortunately, Florida Statutes specify that violations of code can result in fines ranging from $500 to $5,000.

In addition, the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation maintains a list of establishments who aren’t compliant. It’s easily accessible to the public and could harm a business’s reputation. This kind of bad press is every bit as costly as a direct fine.

An experienced elevator service team is intimately aware of safety issues and code requirements (like the latest Florida Administrative Code amendments), enabling them to provide excellent service while always protecting the interests of their clients.

What defines a qualified elevator technician?

The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation details the education, exams, certifications, and registrations required of elevator service personnel and companies. Some of the key requirements:

Achieving an Elevator Certificate of Competency is an important milestone, and prospective applicants must have at least four years verified work experience and pass an approved examination before they can qualify for one.
There are a number of ways to demonstrate four years of verified experience. Applicants can show certification from bodies such as the National Elevator Industry Educational Program, the National Association of Elevator Contractors, or employment affirmation from a Registered Elevator Company.
Florida Statutes state that each certified elevator technician must annually register with the division and be covered by general liability insurance coverage in the minimum amounts set by the division.
When in possession of certification, a reputable technician frequently undertakes further education via statewide and nationwide programs.
Their credentials must be renewed annually on December 31^st.
An experienced elevator technician knows that the right to perform their duties can be revoked at any time if they don’t comply fully with these responsibilities.

Experienced and independent staff result in better solutions

Staying up to code and maintaining elevator safety aren’t the only benefits of hiring a seasoned elevator team – specifically if a technician works for a privately-owned elevator company.

A client who opts for repair staff from a non-publicly traded elevator service provider receives broader options for maintenance and repair. Public companies focus on shareholder value (translating to tighter and sometimes delayed maintenance and repair schedules) and tend to use proprietary parts. Being limited to private parts is precisely that; limiting. It narrows the solutions for the customer by preventing sourcing parts and equipment from anyone other than the service provider.

In addition, many of the large service companies run their technicians on extremely tight schedules, meaning clients often have to wait in line to receive appropriate repairs or maintenance. Qualified technicians with a private company work a lesser schedule, enabling them to focus on starting the job quickly and doing it thoroughly once they’re underway.

There truly is no substitute for experience. In the elevator industry, this experience involves stringent qualifications, industry-recognized peer approval, and years of on-the-job problem solving. If you’re considering maintenance or repair services for your elevators, Connections Elevator would be happy to put our experience to work for you.

As a privately-owned elevator service company, we specialize in thorough, adaptable, and forward-thinking solutions for our customers. For first-class maintenance, modernization, repairs, and contract management, you can reach us at (954) 792-1234, email at info@connectionselevator.com, or schedule a complimentary consultation via our contact form.

January 24, 2018 Todd Schwartz News Comments Off

Innovations and New Technology in Elevators

An update on the latest elevator industry news

2017 was a busy year for the elevator industry. We’ve seen growth in construction and ridership as well as new innovations which could transform how elevators operate and how they are serviced. From smart and “green” elevators to elevators that are connected to the Internet, the strides being made are pretty amazing. Here is a summary of some of the top stories from the past year:

1. What’s so smart about smart elevators?

Much like smart phones and smart TVs, elevators are becoming more high-tech. As skyscrapers continue to rise to even more dizzying heights, elevator manufacturers must make adjustments in order to safely and quickly transport passengers. Smart elevators are among the new wave of advancement in our industry.

How do they work? A passenger pushes a button to set his or her destination and an indicator will direct them to a specific elevator that will transport him or her to that floor the fastest. This advanced routing is a more efficient way of moving passengers, especially during high-traffic hours in busy office buildings or hotels. These elevators can be programmed to operate differently at certain periods throughout the day.

According to BusinessWire, smart elevators will be making big strides in the market, with predicted growth of 12.7% CAGR in the next 8 years. “The global smart elevators market is expected to witness strong growth during the forecast period 2017 – 2025 due to flourishing construction and real estate industry post economic recession. Urbanization and rise in the number of new dwelling units in cities has made the real estate sector competitive. Builders are coming up with new projects and are offering automation and smart elevators as a part of amenities.”

2. Elevators on the Internet

Connectivity is the future of elevators. It won’t be long before Internet-connected elevators become more commonplace. A leading international company is already installing them.

According to TechCo, “The technology works by alerting companies to faults when they appear or are about to develop, enabling lift operators to save money and time on repairs.”

Sensors gather data about usage and other factors, which can affect wear and tear on parts and machinery. That information is then transferred to a cloud-based platform where it is processed and analyzed to predict when maintenance might be needed. Accurately predicting future problems could allow the elevator technicians to make repairs before there is a breakdown.

Another benefit is that companies would be able to service some aspects of elevators remotely, which can help save money and time when repairs are needed.

3. Virtual reality diagnostics

Another cool innovation is called HoloLens. In collaboration with Microsoft, a leading manufacturer is developing a virtual reality headset that might change the way mechanics do elevator repairs. These devices allow mechanics to diagnose a problem without climbing tens of floors or dangling in a lift shift. Once the mechanic puts the glasses on, he or she can use hand motions to go close-up and explore the engine and individual parts. The view can also be widened, allowing the mechanic to do a virtual “walk through,” looking for places where repairs or replacement are needed.

4. The continued trend toward green elevators

Interest in saving energy remains high in real estate and construction. Green buildings are designed to use less energy, and the trend has spread to elevators as well. How is an elevator classified as “green”? It relates to not only energy consumption, but also the materials, processes, and technologies used, as well as interior paints, flooring, control panels, lighting, and HVAC systems.

Elements of green elevators:

• Machine-room-less (MRL) technology with machinery housed directly in the elevator shaft

• Gearless traction design, which can use up to 80% less energy than hydraulic lifts

• Drive systems that that recover and regenerate energy

• Precision traffic control to cut down on elevators with fewer passengers (which use more energy)

• Computerized systems that reduce the number of light-load trips

• In-cab sensors and software that will “go to sleep” when occupied, turning off lights, ventilation, music and video

• Destination dispatch control software that batches elevator stop requests. This reduces the number of stops and even reduces the number of elevators required in a building

5. Destination controls

Calling an elevator is no longer simply pressing a button and waiting for it to arrive. According to Elevator Today, new, high-tech features “allow building managers to more intelligently group and assign passengers to elevators, move people more rapidly to their destination, adjust passenger flow in real-time and personalize touchscreens and kiosks.”

Elevators can be dedicated to high-traffic areas to more adequately answer passenger demands. Building managers will be able to control everything remotely from anywhere in the building.

6. The fastest elevators in the world

Cities all over the world are competing to having the tallest skyscrapers, and a similar race is happening regarding the speed of the elevators that serve them. The Shanghai Tower holds three Guinness World Records for the world’s fastest elevator, the tallest elevator in a building, and the fastest double-deck elevator. It travels at 67 feet per second. The elevator in the Guangzhou’s CTF Tower (1,739 feet tall) makes its trip from floor 0 to 95 in only 45 seconds.

Watch out for the Jeddah Tower in Saudi Arabia, through, which will become the tallest building in the world in 2019. That building’s elevators will use “ultrarope,” a carbon-fiber cable that has incredible lift power. It will enable the machine to travel over 33 feet per second, reaching the highest livable floor in 52 seconds.

These and other innovations in the world of elevators mean it’s an exciting time for our industry. We look forward to the next wave of emerging technologies, many of which will influence the daily operation of new elevators around the world.

Connections Elevator is committed to keeping elevators in South Florida up to code and running at peak performance. If your elevator is in need of repairs or it’s time for some modern upgrades, give us a call at 954-792-1234 or just fill out our online contact form.

January 10, 2018 Todd Schwartz News Comments Off

The ABCs of an Elevator Upgrade

The benefits of making improvements

Safety, efficiency, and a brief but pleasant journey are what we all want when we step into an elevator. But there are quite a few steps along the way to keep one operational and up to date. From assessing the current working condition of the elevator and the reasons why many put off necessary changes, to finally getting a timeline for improvement in place, here’s our look at the moving parts of an upgrade.

Assess your current level of safety

The first step is to assess whether an upgrade is necessary. Start by ensuring the elevator is compliant with safety codes. Referring to Chapter 399 of the 2017 Florida Statutes gives an in-depth look at terms and requirements for operating an elevator in Florida. An inspection of your elevator(s) is an annual requirement, and these routine inspections will provide you with a Certificate of Operation as well as give you a good look at the machinery. If you’re in doubt about how to proceed with inspections and compliance, an experienced service company can make everything clear. If your inspection uncovers operational issues, such as slow movement, hesitating doors, or long wait times, repair or an upgrade may be called for.

The benefits of an upgrade

Aesthetic improvement is one reason building managers opt for an elevator upgrade, in addition to performance upgrades that will improve its function. Smoother acceleration and deceleration, accurate floor leveling, minimal vibration and noise, and increased rider safety are all benefits to be gained from upgrades.

In addition, the more up to date your elevator is, the less maintenance tends to cost. And all things considered, an efficient and visually impressive elevator can only add to the value of a building.

The factors to consider before an upgrade

The age of an elevator is a primary motivator for making improvements, with a decade of use being a good benchmark for considering an upgrade. From a purely cosmetic standpoint, styles have certainly moved on since many cars were put into use, sometimes thirty years ago or more. The technology has improved over time as well, so certain upgrades can mean a boost in performance, reliability, and energy efficiency.

However, sourcing and installing new operational parts for hydraulics, cabs, doors, and more can give building owners pause. There is the expense, and many will find themselves hampered by a proprietary agreement on parts. This means that only their service provider (who is also a manufacturer) can sell the necessary equipment for an upgrade – and only their technicians can complete it. These proprietary agreements lock an owner into a price and service system that can up the cost and the time it takes to complete any upgrade.

We believe in keeping our clients’ hands free. We install non-proprietary parts when upgrading and maintaining elevators, allowing our customers access to a variety of vendors. And our service technicians tend to have more availability, which means we meet the needs of our clients faster than some publicly-traded elevator service companies do.

Making your plan

Once you’ve considered all of the benefits and moving parts, it’s time to lay out the upgrade schedule. Upgrades can range from minimal to total, so qualified personnel can give you advice in working out a timeline. This is often a fluid schedule as work begins and progresses, but working side by side with professionals will minimize any disruption when elevators have to be taken out of service. Technicians will walk you through the entire process, from code compliance and part sourcing to final installation.

An upgrade to old or underperforming elevators can turn an inconvenience into an investment. We’re available for consultation to assess your upgrade, maintenance, or repair needs and to make the process as streamlined as the final product.

From corporate to condos, we specialize in forward-thinking that helps our customers install uniquely suited solutions. For first-class maintenance, modernization, repairs, and contract management, you can reach us at (954) 792-1234, info@connectionselevator.com, or via our contact form.

December 27, 2017 Todd Schwartz News Comments Off

The Continuing Quest for a Space Elevator

The engineering dreamers with their sights on the stars

Buckminsterfullerene. It’s a word so alien it belongs in the field where it contributes to a singular vision: the creation of a space elevator. The word describes the chemical compound with the formula C60, examples of which are also called “Bucky balls,” named after famed inventor Buckminster Fuller. As an inventor, architect, and author, Fuller was the designer of the geodesic dome (visually reminiscent of a carbon molecule) and the form of carbon made up of 60 atoms became his chemical namesake.

It was in 1895 that novelist Konstantin Tsiolkovsky imagined a space elevator in his story Dreams of Earth and Sky. And while individuals are still pursuing this vision, there is quite a way to go before space elevators are reality. The tallest and fastest elevator on Earth is in China’s Shanghai Tower. Soaring to over 2,000 feet and outpacing the world’s fastest athlete, it’s the best we’ve got … at the moment. But the human imagination is always going onward and upward so … next stop, outer space?

The buck starts here

Buckminsterfullerene leading us into space may be a neat example of the universe taking us full circle. Since their discovery in the 1980s, flexible spherical and ellipsoid forms have been found to not only occur in nature, but may also be responsible for having cosmically seeded our planet with life in the first place. There’s a certain poetic logic to the possibility that these remarkable little structures could be the very things that lift us back into the stars.

Their versatility has seen them be applied to nanotechnology and electronics, but it’s their application to architectural engineering that makes a space elevator more than just a dream. It’s postulated that fullerene could be the stuff to build on in order to construct a space elevator’s high-tensile carbon cables. In essence, it would be an elevator much like any other – going up and down – but to do so into space, the cable would have to be incredibly strong and able to stand up to the opposing pull of gravity and centrifugal force.

A helping hand from physics

The “spine” of the space elevator would be a highly tensile structure. It would utilize both centrifugal force at its upper point and gravity at its equatorial base in order to remain firm. Pulling a piece of fabric taut between your two hands is a good way to imagine the effect. The present obstacle is that there is no existing material that could take the strain. Carbon nanotube technology is the leading candidate to meet the challenge. It’s part of the fullerene family, with the nanotubes providing the most elastic and powerful tensile strength available.

The whole thing would be wirelessly powered by firing a laser into photovoltaic cells. The laser’s energy would then be converted into electricity to fuel the elevator’s mechanical lifter. For a more in-depth look at the mechanics, check out this white paper from Italy’s Department of Structural Engineering.

The companies reaching for the stars

The future may be little more than a few decades away if Japan’s Obayashi Corporation can realize its goals. Engineers aim to have a space elevator constructed by 2050. Its reach of over 59,000 miles would carry robotic cars running on magnetic linear motors. The cost of ferrying space cargo stands to be drastically reduced, not to mention the exciting benefits of lifting humans beyond the stratosphere. The carbon nanotechnology that will comprise the cable is projected to weigh 7,000 tons. Plasma X (as in the Roman numeral for ten) is a New York company currently specializing in building carbon nanotubes.

For $9.99, you can technically buy your ticket for the space elevator by watching the documentary movie Sky Line, which discusses the work being done by dreamers on this stellar project.

A passion of our planet

A space elevator is something that’s on the best engineering minds across the globe. ISEC (International Space Elevator Consortium) has a website that details the worldwide mission to make this concept a reality. They offer a wealth of information and activities including FAQs, a history of the space elevator, and architectural PDFs. Schools can benefit from this resource that offers further education on the space elevator. If you’re keen to get involved, don’t miss 2018’s upcoming events.

The space elevator may be only a concept at this point, but we’d like to think that Connections Elevator will be around to maintain it when it comes into existence. From corporate to condos, we specialize in helping our customers install uniquely-suited elevator solutions. For first-class maintenance and modernization to repairs and contract management, you can reach us at (954) 792-1234, email on info@connectionselevator.com, or fill out our contact form.

December 13, 2017 Todd Schwartz News Comments Off

Interesting Facts You Might Not Know About Elevators

Tidbits, history, and statistics about elevators

Despite the fact that we use elevators every day, we seldom think about the sheer amount of work they do or how we ended up with this technology. Let’s take a look at their history and some interesting facts about this vital form of transportation.

First, some statistics on elevator usage:

There are about 900,000 elevators operating today
The average user takes 4 trips in an elevator daily
There are about 325 million elevator rides every day (escalators average 245 rides per day)
Each elevator carries 20,000 people per year
All elevators put together carry the equivalent of the Earth’s population every 3 days
Elevators in the US travel 7.2 trillion feet or 1.36 billion miles per year

Here are some historical facts according to ElevatorHistory:

There were 24 elevators used in the Roman Coliseum, which were manually operated by over 200 slaves
The first public building elevator was installed in a nine-story building in New York City
Elevator music first appeared in the 1920s to calm fearful passengers who were using elevators for the first time

Famous elevators around the world:

The St. Louis Gateway Arch
The Lacerda Elevator in Brazil, the busiest elevator in the world, transports 900,000 people every month (in 30-second trips no less)
The Umeda Hankyu Building in Osaka, Japan – Each of the 5 elevators hold up to 80 passengers
The Hammetschwand Lift in Lake Lucerne, Switzerland is the largest outdoor elevator in Europe
The AquaDom in Berlin, Germany runs through the largest cylindrical seawater aquarium in the world
The Bailong elevator in Hunan, China is the world’s tallest glass elevator
The Luxor Hotel in Las Vegas, features a 29-degree incline up the pyramid

The history of elevators

The first elevators may have appeared in ancient Greece. They were invented by the mathematician Archimedes around 235 BC and used a system of pulleys and winches. Some believe elevators may have been around even longer than that, as archeologists have found shafts that might have been used for elevators by several ancient civilizations. Elevators were definitely present in the Roman Coliseum, and small basket elevators were used to transport people and goods up to mountain monasteries during the Middle Ages.

The inventions of hydraulics and electricity brought about the first modern elevators. In 1852, American inventor Elisha Graves Otis created the first safety device that prevented the cabin from falling if the main cable broke. The device was demonstrated in New York’s Crystal Palace in 1854. The first passenger elevator was installed in 1857, but it wasn’t until the 1870s that elevators began showing up in office buildings. German inventor Werner von Seimer built the first electric elevator in 1880.

The early days of elevators

According to Fast Co. Design, elevators were once called movable rooms. “They featured chandeliers and elaborate furniture and carpeting. Passengers sat down and got comfortable before being catapulted onto another floor.”

It was once thought that vertical travel could make you sick. There was actually a condition called “elevator sickness” which was thought to be caused by the sudden movement of internal organs when the elevator stopped.

A couple more things to think about …

No elevators … no penthouse

Before elevators, the upper floors of a house or hotel were reserved for servants or low-rent tenants, who were stuck having to walk up flights of stairs. The advent of elevators meant the rich could easily travel to upper floors. They realized the view from the top was amazing, which led to the concept of the penthouse.

No elevators … no mega cities

Without elevators, we wouldn’t have the famous skylines of places like New York, Chicago, and other cities around the world with immense skyscrapers. Every building would be no more than 5 or 6 stories tall. Elevators have truly transformed our modern world.

Connection Elevator is committed to keeping elevators in South Florida up to code and running at peak performance. If your elevator is in need of repairs or it’s time for some modern upgrades, give us a call at 954-792-1234 or just fill out our online contact form

November 22, 2017 Todd Schwartz News Comments Off

How Long Does an Elevator Installation Take?

The time period depends on these key factors

A well-installed and maintained elevator seems like a simple of matter of up and down. When it complements the building it serves, it’s like it has always been there. In reality, there are many matters to be considered before an elevator is ready to run. From the structure itself to the type of elevator being installed, the time required to fit one isn’t an exact science. Here’s a rundown of the deciding factors, and why it could take weeks or months for a project to be completed.

The type of structure involved

It’s safe to say that if all goes according to schedule, a shorter building will have a lesser installation time than a taller one. A five-floor installation compared to a skyscraper should mean a shorter fitting period. It is typical that when a building is being newly-constructed that the elevator shaft/system will be one of the first things to be installed (their proper functioning in case of emergency makes this a necessity).

A building’s structure must be able to support all the necessary requirements of a new elevator. While new construction takes a lot of time, the needs of elevator installation can be met as the structure takes shape. If an older building needs an elevator installed, that can be a lengthy process as the building is brought up to specifications.

The process of installation

If the installation is from scratch, it will be necessary for a pit made of concrete to be poured. The exact requirements of the pit’s reinforcement and foundations can depend on factors such as local or state codes or the conditions of the land beneath the building. The dimensions of the pit will vary according to the project, but a rough average for pit wall thickness is 8 inches and 12 inches for floors.

Safety measures like fire sprinklers, fire extinguishers and smoke detectors need to be installed in or around the elevator as per local codes. The water released by sprinklers can be a hazard in itself where electricity is concerned, so their integration with electrical systems is important. A telephone line to elsewhere on the premises (or to emergency teams beyond them) is also a necessity to install.

Landings will also need to be barricaded to be up to OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) standards (a fuller insight into OSHA’s regulations can be found here).

Elevator components and different types

As we mentioned earlier, a smoothly installed elevator gives the impression of everything flowing very simply. However, the construction of an elevator from its individual components to its layout and execution is a precision process; so precise that it goes right down to the inch dimensions of the call buttons. The primary components include:

• The elevator car

• Guide rail systems

• Hoist machine

• Controls

• Safety systems

The different types of elevators in use all utilize these core components. Beyond these, there are many individual parts in an elevator’s make-up. Each one must be carefully crafted and applied in order to maintain proper operation. Passenger elevators are the kind which most typically spring to mind, while far bulkier ones like freight elevators are bigger, broader, and designed for heavy-duty use (and as such may take longer to install).

Safety first and last

When all of the structural and technical requirements have been met to create a working elevator, the most important aspect, safety guidelines, must be strictly adhered to. Under Chapter 30 of the Florida Building Code, the new elevator must meet a number of requirements to be deemed suitable for use. Compliance with the Code will be tested by professional regulators whose thorough examination will add time to the installation process. With their approval that the machinery is up to code, the elevator will be ready to perform.

Planning ahead pays

Ultimately, adding an elevator is like any major installation project. All involved have to prepare for the unforeseen along the way. Isolated issues may arise and add more time on the clock. But with flexible planning, a professional team, and cooperation from all involved, an elevator fitting can progress smoothly and with minimal disruption.

From corporate to condos, Connections Elevator specializes in forward-thinking that helps our customers install uniquely suited solutions. For first-class maintenance, modernization, repairs and contract management, you can reach us at (954) 792-1234, email at info@connectionselevator.com or take advantage of a complimentary consultation via our contact form.

November 8, 2017 Todd Schwartz News Comments Off

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The ABCs of an Elevator Upgrade

The Continuing Quest for a Space Elevator

Interesting Facts You Might Not Know About Elevators

How Long Does an Elevator Installation Take?

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