The use of certain materials in the manufacture of various designs is determined by the requirements for reliability, safety and aesthetic appeal. And if the need to obtain a strong and durable product is almost primary in all industries, then, for example, design refinements may be redundant. In turn, a panoramic elevator, which is also called a panoramic elevator, demonstrates an example of the optimal combination of both strength qualities and external attractiveness. Such designs organically fit into the interiors of respectable business centers, hotels, large terminals, shopping and entertainment complexes.
Panoramic elevator designs
Despite the limitations on the use of materials that must provide visibility, designers of models of such elevators offer a huge range of solutions. A variety of designs is explained by the wide possibilities of architectural and design execution of the cabin. So, today the use of simple semicircular walls, rectangular and diamond-shaped forms is practiced. At the same time, classical square models are used less and less precisely because of their triviality. There are also different approaches toimplementation of glazing. For example, panoramic elevators, the design of which has semicircular wall lines, must be equipped with metal panels at the back. However, projects with straight sides allow full glazing on all sides - usually four. There are also various solutions in terms of exit placement. There may be several of them, and they are not always placed in the center of the release side.
Elevator specifications
Still the main parameter that determines the operational capabilities of the elevator is the load capacity. On average, this figure varies from 500 to 1000 kg. The range of overall parameters is also wide. The width and length of the cabin can be from 100 to 200 cm or more. Again, this is an average figure, as special versions can be much more massive. The size of the panoramic elevator in the exit opening, which can be 80-100 cm wide, largely depends on the main parameters. In addition, engineers are paying more and more attention to the speed parameters of the cabins and the possibility of moving at an angle. Modern elevators of this type can reach about 120 km / h, while maintaining compliance with stringent safety requirements. In terms of tilting capabilities, shafts can be located at an angle of 70-80 degrees.
Applied materials
Although outwardly, even a partially panoramic elevator seems to be completely made of glass, in fact, in its overall design, metal structures are the basis. howas a rule, these are special steel alloys with stainless coatings that form the supporting platform. At the same time, for external attractiveness, the protruding sides of the metal are often covered with polished brass, which gives the structure a more solid look. Glass deserves special attention. Even in simple modifications, a panoramic elevator is made of high-strength and thick sheets fixed to the platform. The strength of the glazing is the main characteristic of the design, but other qualities of the material are also important. The glass must be fireproof, airtight, impact resistant and, in some cases, soundproof.
Varieties
There are several signs of separation of panoramic elevator structures, but the most significant is the type of lifting system. There are hydraulic, vacuum and electric models. The hydraulic mechanism is considered traditional, providing a high degree of safety and noiselessness. The advantages of electrical modifications include mainly the dynamics of movement. As a rule, these are high-speed models that are beneficial to use in modern high-rise buildings. New vacuum types of panoramic elevators are also quite promising, the features of which include compact design. This is an innovative principle for the implementation of elevator systems, but it is not yet widely used due to its high cost.
Communications
The originality of the design of observation elevators inevitably entails the need to provide appropriate security in terms ofcomfort. Already in the basic structures, a heating system, ventilation ducts and lighting are provided. The communication equipment is wired through special protected shafts with the obligatory connection of emergency power supply systems. A more technologically advanced passenger elevator also provides for the presence of multimedia systems and video surveillance.
Pros and cons of a panoramic elevator
The widespread use of panoramic elevators indicates that, of course, they have more positive aspects. These are mainly aesthetic advantages, including spectacular design, the possibility of panoramic inspection and small size. In addition, some models outperform traditional metal structures due to low noise levels and the absence of vibrations. At the same time, a passenger elevator with an open view through transparent glass gives psychological comfort to people who suffer from claustrophobia.
As for the shortcomings, they are all shifted to the direct developers and owners of such elevators. Firstly, the designer is still within certain limits, which are determined by the need to use triplex high-strength glass and reinforced mechanical fittings that maintain the proper level of reliability. Secondly, such structures are much more expensive both when buying and during maintenance during operation.
Installation of panoramic elevators
The installation of the elevator itself is the least time-consuming operation. MainWorks in the implementation of the project relate to the installation of the shaft. It should be provided at the stage of development of the building project, although external remote elevator frames can be integrated after the construction of the building. The shaft space is enclosed by a metal box. The walls are carefully polished and equipped with the necessary lifting equipment. After that, with the help of brackets, a panoramic elevator with related equipment is installed. Installation is carried out along guide rails and involves reliable fixation of the cabin to a hydraulic cylinder or other lifting complex.
Conclusion
Despite the high cost of panoramic elevator models, their use is fully justified from a financial point of view. Studies show that buildings, centers and terminals with such equipment have a higher visitor traffic. Moreover, it is not at all necessary to consider a panoramic elevator as an attractive means of movement in a building. Even for a visitor who does not use an elevator, its very presence in the general interior evokes positive emotions. A glass cabin with an unusual shape, when skillfully integrated into the stylistic ensemble of the spatial environment, brings a special aesthetic touch that enhances the overall prestige of the building.
