NicTheElevatorGuy Inspires New Generations of Elevator Operators

An overview of Nicola Imbimbo’s educational, illustrated labor of love, NicTheElevatorGuy: Introductory handbook for the aspiring elevator engineer

Beginning with a heartfelt dedication to his two kids, Matteo and Alessia, Nicola Imbimbo begins his elevator suspension means handbook, NicTheElevatorGuy: Introductory handbook for the aspiring elevator engineer, by centering the younger generation of future elevator engineers. As global application manager of the Elevator & Escalator Business Unit at Prysmian with decades of hands-on knowledge and experience in the vertical-transportation (VT) industry, Imbimbo has crafted an engaging and entertaining handbook for aspiring elevator mechanics. The book features six self-made characters, including one made in his image, with accompanying endearing illustrations intended to represent different VT workers and aspects. His creative approach to introducing young engineers to VT work is as charming as it is informative. 

NicTheElevatorGuy, Brick, 9-Strander, Olaf, DoKtor Lift and Mr. Elevator guide the reader through an overview of the history of elevator suspension means and the basics of suspension mechanics. Imbimbo’s compendium of training courses is full of helpful definitions and explanatory illustrations that playfully take inspiration from comic strips. The handbook contains nine chapters:

• Chapter 1: Historical Notes: Steel Wire Ropes
• Chapter 2: Wipe Ropes: general overview
• Chapter 3: Rope applications on elevators
• Chapter 4: The Transmission ratio between ropes and pulleys
• Chapter 5: Specific pressure, traction and safety factor
• Chapter 6: Recommendations for the correct use of suspension ropes and strategies for improving performance in service 
• Chapter 7: Alternative suspension means, or simply “suspension means”
• Chapter 8: Discard criteria for elevators suspension means
• Chapter 9: Suspension means terminations

Along with the main chapters, an additional introduction, detailing Imbimbo’s experience in the VT industry, and a closing chapter called “Chapter XYZ Case History: Nic’s adventures” serve as a comprehensive combination of history, mechanical diagrams and practical and theoretical applications. Truly a unique approach to crafting a digestible introduction to VT work, Imbimbo’s book leaves the reader wanting more of NicTheElevatorGuy and his friends’ explanations and adventures. 

About the Author

Nicola Imbimbo is a seasoned VT industry contributor who started his career in the family business, Imbimbo Ascensori, which at the time was a Fiam elevator dealer. With a passion for mechanics, Imbimbo graduated from Polytechnic of Turin with a degree in mechanical engineering and began working at his family’s company in Naples, Italy. Imbimbo first worked as a designer of special elevators and then moved on to work for international companies in the production of wire ropes for people lifting and transportation. 

As a trainer for elevator operators, technicians and inspectors, he quickly found his love for teaching that inspired his handbook. An active member of the Italian UNI and international CEN/ISO/ASME A.17 working groups for the technical standardization of the elevator sector, Imbimbo is heavily involved to the VT industry. He now spends his free time teaching training courses as an independent consultant.