Ropeless lift technology set to transform elevator operations 03 December 2014

The era of rope-dependent elevator is almost over, 160 years after its invention, according to ThyssenKrupp, which is now developing elevator cabins with linear motors.

The company says its world first rope-free mechanism will transform conventional lifts into "vertical metro systems" and revolutionise the construction industry.

Dubbed Multi, the new elevator technology is claimed to increase transport capacities and efficiency, while also reducing both footprint and power supply peak load.

Several cabins in the same shaft moving vertically and horizontally will permit buildings to adopt different heights, shapes and purposes, according to the company – although not until 2016 when the first Multi unit will be tested.

ThyssenKrupp Elevator CEO Andreas Schierenbeck says that Multi represents a "landmark revolution" in the elevator industry and a "new and efficient transport solution for mid and high-rise buildings".

He explains that the "long-pursued dream of operating multiple cabins in the same elevator shaft" is now possible, thanks to applying linear motor technology developed for the magnetic levitation Transrapid train to the lift industry.

In a manner similar to a metro system operation, the Multi design can incorporate several self-propelled elevator cabins per shaft, running in a loop, he says – so increasing shaft transport capacity by up to 50%.

Using no cables, a multi-level brake system and inductive power, Multi requires smaller shafts than conventional elevators – so Schierenbeck argues that it will increase a building's usable area by up to 25%.

The overall increase in efficiency also translates into a reduced requirement for escalators and elevator shafts, resulting in significant construction cost savings.

Multi is based on the concept of ThyssenKrupp Twin control and safety system, but includes new features such as lightweight materials for cabins and doors, resulting in a 50% weight reduction, as well as the new linear drives.

"From the one-dimensional vertical arrangement to a two-dimensional horizontal and vertical arrangement, with more than one or two cabins operating in each shaft, Mulit represents a proud moment in ThyssenKrupp's history," states Schierenbeck.

Brian Tinham

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Thyssenkrupp Aerospace

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