Exploring IoT Applications for Vertical Transportation (VT) to Tackle Challenges in a Modern World

This paper investigates and proposes applications for emerging, off-the-shelf technologies for vertical transportation (VT) equipment, with a view to tackling some of the changes in social, economic, and environmental requirements of key stakeholders for buildings. Covid-19 has presented opportunities for IoT technologies to be used within VT systems, to measure air quality and maintain the peace of mind of tenants returning to the office. Sensors have been used to measure a range of in-car, air quality metrics, the analysis of which will be used to recognise how devices can provide stakeholders with accessible, transparent information of the environment in their lifts. With a drive for energy efficiency, and clients striving to meet their net-zero targets, IoT devices can also be used to monitor energy usage of VT equipment and make strategic decisions to save energy and reduce carbon emissions. This paper also looks to understand if, and how we can measure power used by VT systems with these devices. This, coupled with understanding the changing habits of the average office worker, can be used to think out of the box regarding efficient operation of buildings. The author’s previous research investigated the use of IoT technology to monitor the condition of lifts. Analysis of breakdown data and interviews with key stakeholders were used to demonstrate how this technology could be used for earlier fault diagnosis. Since the original study, the industry has moved forwards with off-the-shelf and third party IoT systems being trialled by clients and independent suppliers, to support maintenance and repair strategies. Previously, this was only possible with major lift maintenance companies.