A German company just tested the world's first rope-free horizontal elevator

pulse

June 28, 2017 11:46 AM

Company thyssenkrupp developed a system using linear motor technology. The elevator has an 'exchanger' to allow for horizontal movements.

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Rope-free and horizontal elevators are now a reality.

German company thyssenkrupp trialled the new system named "MULTI" in a 246-metre high tower in Rottweil. They developed a system using linear motor technology, allowing multiple cabins to use the same elevator shaft.

The elevators have an "exchanger", which can switch from vertical to horizontal to allow for sideways movement. The company plans to roll out the MULTI in high-rise buildings, but they also see a future use for the elevators in underground train systems.

Elevators have been dependent on ropes for 160 years, so this would be a look at a very different future.

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