Mathematical Modelling of Comparative Energy Consumption between a Single-loop Curvilinear Escalator (The Levytator) and an Equivalent Pair of Linear Escalators

This paper describes a technique for mathematically modelling the comparative energy consumption between two types of escalators deriving energy differential functions. Using numerical analysis this paper shows how the energy consumption may vary under different load patterns. The paper concludes that the use of a Levytator is almost always more energy efficient than a pair of conventional straight escalators. We have focused on energy consumption in operation as we believe the Levytator’s carbon footprint in manufacture and disposal would be significantly less than a pair of conventional escalators. If you need details on this, please contact the authors of this paper. The Levytator: Conventional escalators follow a straight line. The return path of the step travels underneath the useable steps beneath the housing. In order to provide both up and down paths of travel, two conventional linear escalators are needed. The Levytator is designed to follow any reasonable curve. Its unique patented step design using vertical bearings, allows one Levytator to provide both up and down directions of travel as both set of steps are part of one loop. The Levytator only needs one power source to drive the steps whereas a conventional escalator needs two motors. Structure: This paper sets out a method for mathematically modelling the differential power consumptions between a single Levytator configuration and a pair of conventional escalators for the same rise. The construction of the mathematical model is set out in Part 1-Overview. The calculations using some simple assumptions are set out in Part 2-How Green is the Levytator. The numerical analysis and the shape of the energy functions are detailed in part 3.