1. Introduction
Have you ever stopped to think how much lifts have evolved in recent years? In addition to improvements in design and comfort, such as quieter door closure systems and more ergonomic cabins, there has also been significant progress in terms of safety. Below, we explore the most important safety measures implemented in modern lifts. Shall we explore them together?
2. Types of safety measures
- A. Speed Limiter
The speed limiter is an extremely important device in your lift. As the name suggests, it is designed to detect any dangerous excess of speed when the cabin is moving. When the lift exceeds its safe speed, the limiter automatically activates the parachute system, which acts as emergency brakes, thereby guaranteeing a controlled stop and preventing potential accidents.
- B. Parachute System.
The parachute system is activated in unusual situations, for example, when the lift exceeds its speed limit or in the event the traction cables break. It is designed to stop the lift safely by activating the emergency braking system on the lift guide rails, thereby protecting occupants and preventing damage to the structure of the lift.
- C. Electrical Safety Devices
All General Elevadores lifts are equipped with a series of electrical devices designed to monitor and control the operation of the entire system. These devices stop or prevent the lift from operating if they detect a fault or situation of risk in order to protect users.
- D. Door Closing Sensors
We have all tried to rush into a lift as the door is closing. To prevent such inconveniences, we install sensors on our lift doors to detect the presence of people or objects on the threshold. If the sensors sense an obstruction, the doors won´t close, and will open if they have closed, until the area is clear, thereby preventing injuries and ensuring a safe operation. But how do they detect people and objects?
- E. Infrared Light Curtains
Thanks to infrared light curtains: They work by creating a light barrier that is invisible to the human eye. If someone or something interrupts these light beams while the doors are closing, they will automatically reopen, thereby preventing the risk of entrapment and ensuring safe passage.
- F. Emergency Communication System
Our lifts are equipped with two-way communication systems designed to enable users to directly contact an operator from our customer service centre. This system ensures that assistance is always available, providing users with peace of mind and security.
- G. Overload Sensors
Overload sensors are installed to detect if the lift has exceeded its maximum load capacity. If an overload is detected, the system will issue alerts (both visual and audible) and prevent the lift from operating until the load has been reduced, thus ensuring the safety and integrity of the system.
- H. Backup Power Systems
In the event of a power outage, our lifts can be fitted with backup systems designed to enable the lift to operate on a temporary basis, thereby providing a safe descent to the nearest floor. This ensures occupants do not become trapped and can leave the lift safely.
3. Research and Development at General Elevadores
We at General Elevadores continuously invest in Research and Development as a means of improving our safety systems. We intend to place a greater focus on artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) in the near future, which will allow us to anticipate problems more efficiently and optimise the performance of our lifts.
As part of our philosophy, we always ensure… and will ensure, a smooth and safe ride on our product lines. See you in our next blog!