Pandemic Drives Demand

Otis India’s recent initiatives to manage new challenges are discussed.

As we continue to navigate these unprecedented times, we are seeing customers seek solutions driven by the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Touchless technologies are especially attractive options in this environment. 

One example of touchless technology is the Otis eCall™ app. The app enables passengers to use their cell phones as their personal elevator call buttons and call an eCall-equipped elevator when approaching it. This helps minimize use of public-access elevator buttons. The app also gives building managers the flexibility to provide easy access for passengers. Additionally, a Bluetooth-enabled version of eCall is being rolled out. This is designed to offer passengers a more seamless experience within their respective buildings.

Beyond eCall, Otis offers its CompassPlus® destination-dispatch system. Instead of using standard hall-call buttons, passengers enter their specific floors in the Compass fixture. The system assigns passengers traveling to nearby floors to the same car. This minimizes the number of stops per trip, reduces car crowding and decreases travel times. CompassPlus can limit the number of passengers assigned to each elevator, allow for automatic operation to predefined floors and can be used with eCall. 

The industry has been racing to adopt Internet of Things (IoT) technology. And, it seems that emerging from COVID-19 is only going to accelerate this digital transformation. Our ONE™ promotes proactive and remote service that can, in turn, help reduce the number of in-person service calls. The company’s latest remote-monitoring solution uses IoT technology to provide real-time transparent information, proactive communication in the event of an issue and help in preventing shutdowns with predictive insights.

In addition to our touch-free technology offering, we also offer elevator and escalator purification products and services for customers. Examples include: 

• Elevator purification fans: Elevators can be retrofitted with fan technology that can inactivate microorganisms and filter dust within cabs. The fan integrates an ion generator and ultraviolet (UV) lamp to kill germs and filter dust within the cab.

• Handrail sanitizers for escalators: Fitted on handrails, the module is designed to remove germs using UV light.

We also have seen customers interested in automatic-door options, as they eliminate the need to open and close doors manually and promote lessened physical touch. Bolstered by the pandemic, we also expect to see customers turn to energy-saving and energy-efficient technologies like Gen2. 

Otis India offers a Gen2 modernization package, MOD. This is a green modernization package for the Indian elevator market based on the technology of Otis’ flagship product, Gen2. Apart from upgrading the elevator, the new Gen2 MOD package will bring elevators in need of renovation up-to-date with safety, comfort and environmental standards, as well as enhance the passenger experience. MOD employs a smart-retention program in which reusable parts from the older system are retained in the new one. This further aids in minimal interference with the structural part of the building, reduces downtime and minimizes inconvenience to residents.