News

Linear Motors replace Cables in Elevators

November 04, 2015 by Jeff Shepard

On November 5, 2015, only one year after announcing the concept of its game-changing MULTI elevator technology, ThyssenKrupp unveils a fully-functional 1:3 scale model at its Innovation Center in Gijon, Spain. The MULTI system uses linear motors instead of cables, enabling both horizontal and vertical movement and transforming conventional elevator transportation into veritable metro systems. MULTI elevator technology increases transport capacities and efficiency while reducing the elevator footprint and peak loads from the power supply in buildings.

Revealed in operation for the first time today, the MULTI system represents a landmark revolution in the elevator industry. This first scale model, with two 10 meter shafts and four cabs, applies linear motor technology based on the magnetic levitation train Transrapid. With no cables at all and multiple cabins per shaft, MULTI will transform how people move inside buildings. This latest ThyssenKrupp innovation follows the recently introduced ACCEL system, which also applies the same linear motor technology and is transforming mobility between short distances in cities and airports.

Commenting on this milestone at the Innovation Center, Andreas Schierenbeck, CEO of ThyssenKrupp Elevator said, "As we promised 12 months ago, we present today the first model of our ground-breaking MULTI elevator system. Our Research and Development team is right on track to realize this cutting-edge transport technology. MULTI will be our answer to tomorrow's challenges: as the nature of building construction evolves, it is also necessary to adapt elevator systems to better suit the requirements of buildings and high volumes of passengers. MULTI represents a proud moment in ThyssenKrupp's history of delivering market-leading innovations which best serve current mobility needs."