Keep Your Elevators Running with Door Operation Upgrades

This article discusses the performance benefits of upgrading elevator door equipment.

The average elevator door opens and closes more than 200,000 times a year. No wonder the majority – more than 70% – of all elevator trouble calls are caused by faulty or worn-out door components. Doors that are noisy, unreliable, unattractive or operating inefficiently could reflect poorly on building safety and management. Under-performing and unreliable elevators hinder efficient building operation, causing probable downtime and expenses.

Upgrading elevator components can be a cost-effective way to dramatically improve elevator service. The benefits of an upgrade include reduced noise and vibration, improved efficiency and performance, enhanced passenger comfort and safety, reduced operating expenses and compliance with codes and Americans with Disabilities Act standards. 

Door operation upgrade packages are available for every elevator and provide building owners the flexibility to retain or replace all or part of existing hoistway door equipment. Modular solutions allow building owners to meet the specific needs of each building and can reduce the cost and time needed for modernization by interfacing new parts with various parts of existing door systems.

A modernized elevator door system delivers smooth and efficient operation and performs according to a building’s needs. Modernization packages, such as KONE’s ReNova customized solution, require less power than conventional door operators. The mechanical system includes a linear door drive system, with large-diameter door rollers and a substantial track to minimize friction and reduce noise. An energy-efficient synchronous motor, closed-loop control and inverter drive system allow improved performance and energy efficiency compared to conventional systems.

An upgraded door system also enables the elevator’s performance profile to be adjusted and monitored. Using patented AMD door technology, the ReNova solution lets the door system’s performance profile, including how long the door stays open or shut, be set according to a building’s specific needs. The system then monitors the operating conditions and digitally encodes feedback, allowing the system to learn about the building. Permanent-magnet synchronous motors and variable-voltage, variable- frequency drives use this information to deliver consistent performance.

Additional door operators are designed specifically to solve the problems of certain outdated door systems. These new operators can reduce maintenance and operating costs, as well as provide operation without a complete replacement of the elevator door. For example, KONE’s G2M Door Operator upgrade features smooth acceleration and deceleration, soft-start circuitry and a solid-state control providing uniform door speed transitions.  

Newer door operators, like the G2M, also automatically compensate for differences in door weights, producing consistent operation from floor to floor. Any speed adjustments required are quickly and easily completed from the car top with the guidance of LED indicators. Sealed bearings and a cool-operating DC permanent-magnet (PM) motor can extend the life of the door operator and reduce maintenance time. These features significantly reduce shutdowns to enhance passenger safety, comfort and convenience.

Other door operation upgrades are available for all types of applications to increase door performance and safety. PM solid-state and closed-loop operators featuring microprocessor control systems, such as KONE’s MAC solution, can measure velocity feedback of the motor and position feedback of the doors, as well as adjust to various conditions, including door weights and wind resistance. A complete upgrade solution delivers a properly functioning gate switch, door linkage, door clutch and door restrictor to provide a safe, smooth ride.

Elevator door upgrades and modernization projects allow buildings to stay ahead of potentially disruptive problems caused by worn-out equipment. Upgrading to the latest technology is not only cost-effective, but will also help keep people moving smoothly and safely throughout your buildings.